Walk to Emmaus: Recent St. Stephen Walkers Share Their Experiences
The noise and busyness of daily life has a habit of drowning out the whispers of the divine. Many of us yearn for a deeper connection with God. Many members of St. Stephen have found the spark to this connection in their experience at Walk to Emmaus, a three-day retreat that’s been quietly transforming lives and strengthening congregations across the country.
Walk to Emmaus seeks to give their “walkers” (those who attend the retreats) a better way of understanding a New Testament approach to Christianity as a lifestyle. The retreat is designed to strengthen and renew faith, giving participants a chance to break away from the daily grind and draw closer to God.
“It’s extremely hard to quiet our lives and the world in order to fully focus on God,” says Susi Robinson, who recently attended a retreat. “The Walk to Emmaus gave me that opportunity. We had a chance to get away from our lives, from our phones, from all technology, and be in a tranquil space, living in the moment where all our needs were met.”
Among the most transformative experiences is the sense of community which develops among fellow retreat participants. Ed Back says his recent trip was unlike nearly all spiritual retreats he’s ever attended. “I have come back a part of a community; one that cares for its members and continually remembers them in its prayers,” he says.
Ernie Keener feels similarly: “So many people poured so much love into everyone there.”
Ed and Ernie also found meaning in the worship experiences during the weekend, especially the music. It was a different kind of style than either of the men were accustomed, but it’s stuck with them. Talks from retreat leaders and fellow participants, as well as personal testimonies, helped walkers get to know each other better and reflect on faith.
Ernie Keener plays the drums as part of the ENCOUNTER modern worship band.
One of the most powerful aspects of the Walk to Emmaus is the sense of community it creates among participants. Unlike many spiritual retreats that focus solely on individual reflection, the Walk emphasizes the importance of Christian fellowship and ongoing support.
“My experience in the meeting of other believers and a secure way of loving God and his son,” says Gary Moore. “The testimonies were impeccable and rejuvenating.”
Linda Wilson says she “experienced God’s abounding love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness,” adding, “The women that I met were very inspiring and open about their faith journeys. I am thankful and grateful for the time with God and other Christian women and leaders.”
The Walk to Emmaus promises to leave a lasting impact in the lives of those who go on a retreat. Recent St. Stephen walkers back up the claim. Ed has returned to practicing some broken prayer and discipline habits and studying again. Susi’s faith has been taken to a new level, “deeper in my mind, heart, and soul,” she says. “I have a renewed lens through which I can plan and live each day, in my worship, my serving, work, volunteering, and everyday interactions.”
The Walk to Emmaus represents more than a weekend retreat — it offers a pathway to a more intentional, community-centered Christian life that continues to bear fruit long after participants return home.
Ed sums it up: “I can only say to anyone who is considering taking the Walk to Emmaus, prepare to be changed.”
Learn more about the Walk to Emmaus: Read about the local Emmaus community or talk to Linda Wujciak at the church for ways you can get involved.
— Featured Photo: Walkers Gary Moore, Susi Robinson, Ed Back, and Linda Wilson. Photo by Tom Henderson.
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