## Welcome To Shekinah!

Are you looking to slow down, unplug, and unwind from your busy life? Would you like to reconnect with friends and family, while renewing your spirit in a beautiful, natural setting? You are in the right place!

Latest Events

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Located approximately 45 minutes north of Saskatoon, near Waldheim, SK, Shekinah is located on the the North Saskatchewan river. Nestled on 287 acres in the river valley, Shekinah is a quiet place to get away from the worries and struggles of everyday life.

We have many trails that take you through our peaceful setting. You will see prairie,  river hills, trees, and brush. This  makes walking, hiking, biking, canoeing, cross-country skiing, and skating a spiritual activity.

Churches, faith groups, non-faith groups, non-profit organizations, government agencies, family gatherings, anniversaries, weddings, and special events have all enjoyed Shekinah for its facilities, wilderness setting, and spiritual atmosphere.

As our mission states:

> Shekinah is to be a setting where all who come have opportunity to experience the presence and glory of God through discovery, reflection, interaction, community and nature.

Please take a moment to browse our site to see what we have to offer. To see the Shekinah life for yourself, we invite you to come and experience God's presence and glory.

Stay up-to-date by getting our events and news directly to your inbox.

This is the home page of the Shekinah Retreat Centre.

Shekinah Home

## It’s an exciting time at Shekinah!

### We are busy getting ready for summer camp! Well, by the time you're reading this, summer camp is probably already underway.

**We have just come through a successful School Group programming season.** We were fortunate to have a full schedule and were able to give many students a chance to get out of the city and get into nature.

**We are busy training new counselors, sprucing up facilities, and ordering food – a lot of food! – for hungry campers.** It’s exciting and a bit overwhelming at the same time.

**We are grateful for the number of campers who have signed up, so far.** Response was so good that we added a couple of counselors and opened up more spots for camp. This is a great “problem” to have.

**Summer camp – and serving young people and families – is at the heart of Shekinah’s reason for being.** The chance to show young people love, care, acceptance, and respect is a serious-but-welcome responsibility.

**Summer camp helps create life-long friendships, nurtures respect for the natural world, and is a safe place to get away from screens, busyness, and expectations for a time.**

**We believe summer camp is valuable for not only the campers, but also for all the staff and volunteers who interact with them.**

**People often ask how they can help support Shekinah’s summer camp program. Here are a number of ways:**

**1) Support camp with your prayers and affirmations.** Pray for campers, counselors, volunteers, and general staff. If you know people involved, be sure to let them know you are thinking of them and appreciate their dedication to each other.

**2) Volunteer at camp.** Feeding a camp takes a village … and then some! We are still looking for volunteer cooks for the weeks of July 11-14, 18-22, and 25-29. Please contact Reno (reno@shekinah.ca or 306-94504929. While a week is great, a day is also helpful. Enjoy and all-expenses-paid retreat in the Timber Lodge while you help us out.

We are also still looking for a few Counselors-In-Training (CITs) for the same weeks.

**3) Give financially.** Summer camp is an expensive program. While we have slowly been moving towards charging campers the actual costs of camp, we still rely heavily on generous donations from people who feel the summer camp program is valuable.

**It can easily cost $60,000 - $70,000 to deliver our summer camp program, and we are generally able to recoup about 2/3 of that cost from camper families.** We rely on donations to cover the rest of the costs.

**Are you able to help us out by investing in our summer camp program?** If so, please consider a tax deductible donation to our summer camp program.

You can donate using <ins>[**etransfer**](mailto:office@shekinahretreatcentre.org)**</ins>**, cheque (make a note for “summer camp”), or<ins>[**safely online**](https://shekinah.ca/donations)**</ins>** for credit card payments.

**Thank you for all of your support for this valuable program.**

Help Support Shekinah Summer Camp!

# Are you looking for a unique spot to hold a get together or youth retreat and are prepared to do all the heavy lifting yourself? And you don't mind the cold?

## We have had a few "short notice" cancelations, so call and talk with Shekinah Retreat Centre staff today!

**Just to be clear, we mean it when we say Do-It-Yourself. You'll be doing the work.** You will be responsible for setting up, taking down, cleaning up, washing dishes (we've got a commercial dishwasher) and taking out the garbage.

**If you're not afraid of a little hard work, your hard work will save a substantial amount of money.**

**In addition, you will have to bring your own food and do your own cooking.** (In order to use our commercial kitchen, at least one member of your group will have their food safety certificate. If you don't have one, you can easily obtain one online.)

**Of course, these discounts are only available during our slower season, so they are only on for a limited time.** Contact us now to see which package might work best for your group.

**We're all in these crazy times together.**

Check out our [rentals page](https://shekinah.ca/rentals "See Our Rentals") or contact us:

Call us: [306-945-4929](tel:3069454929 "Call Shekinah")

Email: [rentals@shekinah.ca](mailto:rentals@shekinah.ca "Email Shekinah")

Substantial savings on Do-It-Yourself packages.

Major DIY Discounts On Our Facility Rentals!

## Looking for a summer job? Look no further!

**If you are looking for meaningful work this summer, we can use you  in the beautiful valley that is Shekinah.**

**We are looking for summer maintenance workers.** These jobs include mowing grass, clearing trails, staining decks, and other outdoor work. These jobs are perfect for the person who loves to work outside and likes a variety of manual work to keep them busy.

**We also need summer camp counsellors**. **This is a high paced, exciting, and tiring position, and you will be required to change gears frequently. These positions can be very demanding, but job satisfaction is very high!**

**In addition, we need hospitality workers.** You should be comfortable working with people and have good attention to detail.

**These jobs are either 8 weeks in length, starting either May or July.**

**Please send an email with your resume to jobs@shekinah.ca or call the office for more information: 306-945-4929.**

Shekinah Is Looking For Summer Workers!

## Looking for a summer job? Look no further!

**If you are between the ages of 15-30, we can use you for up to 8 weeks of work in the beautiful valley that is Shekinah.**

**We are looking for 6 maintenance workers.** These jobs will include mowing grass, clearing trails, staining decks, and other outdoor work. These jobs are perfect for the person who loves to work outside and likes a variety of manual work to keep them busy.

**Work starts July 5.** These jobs are for a duration of 8 weeks each.

**Please send an email to ron@shekinah.ca or call the office for more information.**

## COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS FOR RENTING / VISITING SHEKINAH

**In accordance with the latest Re-Open Saskatchewan guidelines extension, Shekinah has re-opened access to its grounds; however, our main buildings (Timber Lodge and Chalet) remain closed to the public.**

Until further notice, Shekinah rentals of the Timber Lodge, Chalet, or Cabins will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. We are currently hoping - if all Re-Open Saskatchewan guidelines are met -  to re-open our rental facilities in August, 2021.

Please contact the office for availability, Covid policies, etc.

In the meantime, we welcome your visits to use our outdoor spaces (287 acres) for hiking, bird watching, or just running around to burn off energy.

Please note that there are restrictions in place.

For using our grounds, here are a few things to know:

1. The government of Saskatchewan guidelines state that outdoor groups are limited to 10 people, with NO food or drink. The rules you need to follow at home are the same here.
2. Our washroom facilities are closed to the public.
3. There is a fire ban in place for the RM of Laird, so all fire pits are closed to use.

There are also some general things to keep in mind:

1. There is not always someone on duty, so you enter at your own risk.
2. The grounds are open during daylight hours only.
3. Cell phone service has come to our valley, but it can be weak or non-existent in certain places.
4. Should you decide to hike our trails, we ask that you give a small donation to Shekinah. $10/ person or $25 / family is a suggestion. You can donate online (see donations menu up at the top right of this page) or leave a donation in the boxes on Ravine Trail, on the sign in the Timber Lodge parking lot, or in the mailbox at the office. Or scan the QR code and pay online.

As always, we do not allow motorized vehicles (dirt bikes, ATVs, etc) on Shekinah grounds.

There are NO pets allowed at Shekinah.

There is no hunting on Shekinah grounds.

Just a reminder: Shekinah is private property and does not have amenities / staff like a provincial or federal park might. There may not be staff on site, so we ask you to be careful and respectful, while keeping your distance from others. 

\*Note that the second floor of the office building and the A-frame house are private property.

Please stay healthy and safe in these unusual times.

WE WILL REVISIT THESE GUIDELINES WHEN THE NEW SASKATCHEWAN PUBLIC HEALTH MEASURES ARE RELEASED.

Our key resource on actions we should take are at
https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/health-care-administration-and-provider-resources/treatment-procedures-and-guidelines/emerging-public-health-issues/2019-novel-coronavirus


COVID-19 Update - May 2021

### Move - A - Thon : September 17, 2022

#### **Schedule of Events:**

9:00am - Registration for Obstacle Course Run begins

9:30am - Obstacle Course Run Send-Off

10:00am - Registration for Paddlers, Hikers, and Families

* _Cinnamon Buns and Coffee_

10:30am - Paddler Send-Off

12:00pm - Lunch and Thank You's

#### [**_Move-A-Thon Map_**](/movemap.jpg "Map")

**All participants:**

* When arriving at Shekinah please fill up the parking lot between the pond and playing field first (see map above) to allow space for other events happening onsite later in the day.
* Make sure to bring a water bottle, sun screen, and bug spray.
* Washroom access is in the Chalet at the bottom of the hill.
* Morning coffee break and lunch are included; please confirm any dietary concerns or allergies ASAP at: [shekinahmoveathon@gmail.com](mailto:shekinahmoveathon@gmail.com).
* If you are feeling unwell, please consider staying home. We will miss you, but not your germs; and will offer refunds as appropriate.

**Paddlers:**

* You are responsible for bringing your own watercraft and personal floatation device (PFD) to Shekinah. Please have these ready to load onto the Shekinah trailer by 10:15am for the shuttle to leave for Petrofka Bridge by 10:30am.

**Hikers:**

* Maps will be available for you to choose how you want to explore the 287 acres that Shekinah has to offer. When/where you hike will be up to you.

**Families:**

* A variety of activities will be available to enjoy throughout the morning.
* Bring bikes, striders, scooters, etc. to explore the trails.

**Obstacle Course Runners:**

* Be prepared to get down and dirty as the natural elements of Shekinah become your obstacles! _(Spare change of clothes recommended!)_
* There will be 10 obstacles throughout the route, and you have the choice of running the course 1-3 times, with or without a 20lb weight on your back (bring your own).
* Questions/concerns, please contact Rob at [freedomrob87@gmail.com](mailto:freedomrob87@gmail.com).

Remember, while this event offers a great chance to get outdoors, get active, and connect with some new people, it’s also a **fundraising event** in support of the mission and programs of Shekinah. Reach out to your family and supporting community with a quick note (see sample below) - you might just win the **FREE two-night stay in a Shekinah cabin for the top fundraiser.** (pledges accepted until October 1)

Thanks again for joining us! Contact [shekinahmoveathon@gmail.com](mailto:shekinahmoveathon@gmail.com) if you have any questions. We look forward to seeing you!

Move-A - Thon Schedule : September 17

![](/moveathon_2022_finaldraft1.png)

## Support the 2022 Shekinah Move-A-Thon on September 17, 2022

### 

With something for all ages and abilities, groups/families and individuals, we hope you can plan to join us in getting active and raising funds for Shekinah!

Watch for more details coming soon 😊

September 17!

![](/moveathon_2022_finaldraft1.png)

## Support the 2022 Shekinah Move-A-Thon on September 17, 2022

### 

We are thrilled to invite you to join us for this year’s Move-A-Thon, featuring classics you’ve come to love and expect (like a scenic paddle from the Petrofka Bridge to Shekinah, and farmer sausage lunch), and an exciting new partnership with Freedom Functional Fitness to offer a **_new_** Obstacle Course Run.

There are many ways to participate in this year’s event:

* **Hike**. With 287 acres to explore, Shekinah’s trails offer a variety of difficulty levels, all with fantastic scenery to enjoy along the way.
* **Paddle**. Grab your canoe, kayak, or paddle board and take in the sights along the North Saskatchewan River. Paddle takes approx. two hours and is great for all ages and experience levels. Transportation will be provided from Shekinah to the Petrofka Bridge landing
  * _Note, participants must bring their own water craft, paddle(s), and personal floatation device._
* **Obstacle Course Run**. New this year, a 5k run that turns Shekinah into the ultimate obstacle course. Participants can complete 1-3 laps, with or without a 20lb backpack. Not for the faint of heart, but we hope you’re up for the challenge!
  * _Note, must be 18 years or older to participate, additional cost._
* **Bring the Family**. Come and enjoy the sand, the swingset and playground, and special activities like DIY face painting, bubbles, Spikeball, and more!
* **Donate**. Sponsor a participant, or donate to the event overall.  [Donate Today](shekinah.ca/donations "Donate")
* **Volunteer**. Help is needed with set-up, clean-up, shuttles, and meals. Contact [shekinahmoveathon@gmail.com](mailto:shekinahmoveathon@gmail.com) if you’d like to volunteer, and get free lunch!

  All participants are encouraged to fundraise and invite family, friends, and community to support them and the work and mission of Shekinah Retreat Centre.

  The event will start in the morning and conclude with a celebration lunch. Registration: $20/person (includes lunch, family pricing available), full schedule will be available soon. Registration is now open, contact [shekinahmoveathon@gmail.com](mailto:shekinahmoveathon@gmail.com) with any questions, we’d love to hear from you!

## [Register Here](https://www.cognitoforms.com/ShekinahRetreatCentre/MoveAThonRegistration2022 "Register")

Move- A - Thon 2022 Registration

# Welcome to A Very Shekinah Christmas, 2021.

## We are feverishly trying to get things wound up before year end, but we invite you to join us on December 23 for a "State of Shekinah" address ... of sorts.

#### While you are waiting, we've prepared a report on what has happened in 2021 when it comes to the physical, you-can-touch-it, beautiful-grounds-and-buildings part of Shekinah.

**Here's that report:** [**Physical Plant Report**](/physical2021.pdf)

**Join us for a short look back at 2021 - and quick look forward to 2022.**

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9z3wwEQNAQc" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Link Not Working? Go to our YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/9z3wwEQNAQc

**Now, if you are looking for some more "entertainment" in Shekinah's own, particular ... style(?), here you go.**

**But wait ... If you can't stand a rerun.** If you get enraged over sequels. If you've ever said that eating one sandwich in your lifetime is enough and you'll never eat another ... go no further.

**Far be it from us to summon the beast. However ...**

**For those who don't mind a trip down memory lane.** Or who like sequels. Or, like some at Shekinah, who have minds that are less steel-trap and more steel-sieve - and who don't remember what happened last Thursday - **please enjoy last year's 12 Days of Christmas - The Reduce-Reuse-Recycle ReRun.**

**Join the Shekinah staff, board members, and various Friends of Shekinah in 12 days of video, music, song, and stories.**

**To get the full effect, we suggest that you start at Day 1 - The Bottom.** That way you can allow the tension to build.

**Unless you are the type who reads the last page of a thriller first.** Or who sees a plot synopsis before watching a movie. Or opens your Christmas gifts as you receive them ... whether that is November 17 or December 22. Tsk Tsk.

**If you are THAT type of person, by all means ... start at day 12.** Sure. Go ahead. You're an adult. A rebel. Why not flaunt all the rules of good taste and decorum?

\****A Very Shekinah Christmas: Day 12 (The Music Concert)**

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2HJz5dxZqa8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Link Not Working? Go to our YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/2HJz5dxZqa8

\****A Very Shekinah Christmas: Day 11 (The Address)**

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/M1_fnYuHD5A" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Link Not Working? Go to our YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/M1_fnYuHD5A

**A Very Shekinah Christmas - Day 10 (The Sled)**

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zRBOtao0bVo" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Link Not Working? Go to our YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/zRBOtao0bVo

**A Very Shekinah Christmas - Day 9 (Respect)**

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YI_HxXlgahI" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Link Not Working? Go to our YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/YI_HxXlgahI

**A Very Shekinah Christmas - Day 8 (The Peppernut|)**

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vCl8XnsRA9Y" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Link Not Working? Go to our YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/vCl8XnsRA9Y

**A Very Shekinah Christmas - Day 7 (Counsellors Reminisce)**

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2OwyOm8Jjqo" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Link Not Working? Go to our Youtube channel:
https://youtu.be/2OwyOm8Jjqo

**A Very Shekinah Christmas - Day 6 (Campfire)**

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3tKYIMuGGA0" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Link Not Working? Go to our Youtube channel:
https://youtu.be/3tKYIMuGGA0

**A Very Shekinah Christmas - Day 5 (Board Wishes)**

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/om6y4Q4714k" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Link Not Working? Go to our YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/om6y4Q4714k

**A Very Shekinah Christmas - Day 4 (Resilience)**

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0EEd6-CdsgU" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Link Not Working? Go to our YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/0EEd6-CdsgU

**A Very Shekinah Christmas - Day 3 (Kwanza? Nope. Quinzee!)**

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/S3cdZFPh4o8" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Link Not Working? Go to our YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/S3cdZFPh4o8

**A Very Shekinah Christmas - Day 2 (In The Beginning)**

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lHtwaoHqcII" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Link Not Working? Go to our YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/lHtwaoHqcII

**A Very Shekinah Christmas - Day 1 (The Problem)**

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DpTxkLL-5Vw" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Link Not Working? Go to our YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/DpTxkLL-5Vw

A Very Shekinah Christmas 2021

![](/2021-move-a-thon-poster.png)

## Support the 2021 Shekinah Move-A-Thon on September 18, 2021.

### **Thank you for your outstanding support! Shekinah will be accepting donations for this event until October 1, 2021.

**Bike, Paddle, or Hike, and fundraise to support the mission of Shekinah Retreat Centre.**

The Shekinah Move-A-Thon committee invites individuals, families, and youth groups to get out to Shekinah and move for this year's annual fundraising event!

**New this year:**

* 60km bike route from Shekinah to Rosthern and back (rest stops along the way, pick-up available if needed).
* Canoe paddlers will be shuttled to the Petrofka Bridge for a scenic route down the North Saskatchewan River.
* A guided hike along some favourite Shekinah trails will be offered, but hikers are welcome to choose their own paths and enjoy some relaxation time and activities throughout the day.

**Also new this year is a Kid's Bike Route (along the main gravel road), and various activities for families and youth from 10:30am-1:00pm.**

There will be something for everyone, so even if you don't want to do a major paddle or bike, you are encouraged to sign up (choose 'hike' on the form below) and join us for the day!

MC Sask youth groups, contact Kirsten Hamm-Epp (youthminister@mcsask.ca, 306-249-4844) if you would like to join up with other youth.

**Participants are encouraged to ask family, friends, and their local congregations and communities for donations.** All funds raised will go towards helping Shekinah Retreat Centre continue its mission of providing a safe and welcoming space to all.

Cost: $20/person, lunch and snacks included. Special rates are available for families and youth groups.

Sign up below to receive a welcome email and more information, and get fundraising!

**Schedule of Events:**  
9-10am: Check-in, with coffee and cinnamon buns

10am: Announcement of the top fundraiser and winner of a free two-night stay in a cabin. Send-off for cyclists and canoeists. Hikers are welcome to start anytime

10:30am: Send-off for Kid's Bike Route

10:30am-1:00pm: Family activities including carnival games, scavenger hunt, and face painting

12:00-2:00pm: Lunch

**Please sign up below and receive a welcome email with more information:**

<iframe src="https://www.cognitoforms.com/f/H2H2xt1TekekOBiGfW98Fg?id=23" style="position:relative;width:1px;min-width:100%;*width:100%;" frameborder="0" scrolling="yes" seamless="seamless" height="2208" width="100%"></iframe>
<script src="https://www.cognitoforms.com/scripts/embed.js"></script>

Shekinah BikeAThon / MoveAThon 2021 A Success!

Shekinah Retreat Centre

Help Support Shekinah Summer Camp!

Shekinah is (Safely) Open for Business

Donate to Support Shekinah's Mission

Welcome To Shekinah!

Latest Events

Move-A - Thon Schedule : September 17

September 17!

Latest News

Help Support Shekinah Summer Camp!

Major DIY Discounts On Our Facility Rentals!

Shekinah Is Looking For Summer Workers!

Looking for a summer job? Look no further!

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Welcome To Shekinah!

Latest Events

Latest News

Looking for a summer job? Look no further!

Sign up for the Shekinah Newsletter

Information

Facilities and Activities

Latest News

Latest Events

Send us a message

Other ways to reach us

Email

Facebook

Phone

Instagram

Mailing Address