Apart, and Yet Apart workshop wraps up June 28, 2024 By Collegeville Institute Leave a Comment From June 5-14, the Collegeville Institute hosted nine writers of various genres in Apart, and Yet Apart. This ten-day workshop, led by writing coach Michael N. McGregor, was designed to provide advanced writers with support, community, and maximum time and freedom for writing. L to R: Melanie Springer Mock, Jane Wageman, Steve Dry, Karen Hering, Rachel Srubas, Sylvia McGregor, Michael N. McGregor (workshop leader), Taylor Brorby, Nick Denysenko, Diane Kenaston, Lisa Cockrell The bulk of each day was set aside for participants to read, write, and dedicate themselves to their own projects. The unstructured time made it possible for writers to think and create in whatever way was most fruitful for them, from writing in the library to walking on the trails. One writer noted in their evaluation how much they appreciated “having the luxury of space to write without needing to worry about anything else but writing!” Another wrote, “The unscheduled days…were just what I needed to come face to face with the challenges of my project—and to recommit myself to it.” During each day’s writing time, the writers also had the opportunity to meet with Michael as often as they wished for individual coaching. Participants all agreed that their one-on-one meetings were an invaluable part of the workshop experience. “Michael is accessible, good humored, authoritative, experienced, reflective, humble…an ideal coach for this workshop,” wrote one participant. “He is a generous and gifted writing coach, equally equipped with writing savvy, attentive listening and skillful guidance and encouragement,” wrote another. The days also included a number of optional activities around the Saint John’s community, including Pottery Studio Tea Time, prayer with the Saint John’s Abbey Monastic Community, a gallery tour of The Saint John’s Bible, and an organ recital in the Abbey Church. In the evenings, participants gathered for dinner, social time, and conversations with Michael and other guests about writing, publishing, and the creative life. Participants expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to devote themselves wholly to their writing over the course of the workshop. With unscheduled time and no other obligations or distractions, one participant wrote, “the work itself had a chance to reclaim my heart.” “I only wish this were four weeks long!” wrote another. Like this post? Subscribe to have new posts sent to you by email the same day they are posted.
