DaySpring Catalog 2017
2017 Offerings A Sacred Space Spiritual Strength Transformation Leadership Congregational Vitality
Through the tender mercy of our God, with which the Dayspring from on high has visited us. Luke 1:78
1979 Diocese acquires original 76 acres along the Manatee generously donated by the Hall family.
1983 Curry Hall built in honor of Mac and Chris Curry.
1982
1984
Official Groundbreaking on Dec. 11.
DaySpring welcomes first guests.
Dear Friends, Welcome to DaySpring! I am pleased to offer this catalog for perusal and planning purposes. The contents of this catalog are intended to both inform and inspire. The wide variety of programs and other offerings discovered in these pages are available to deepen spiritual lives in this sacred place. You will note that the calendar is full of activity that is energizing, spiritually fulfilling, and personally challenging. DaySpring has long been positioned as a place for deep spiritual formation in the life of the Diocese. It is beautiful piece of protected “Old Florida” that we enjoy sharing with people of different faiths and backgrounds. The hospitality we offer is built upon the sense of Christian mission we have expressed in five essential purposes for serving God. We seek to build and maintain programs and practices for Leadership, Transformation and Spiritual Strength, Congregational Vitality, and continue to be A Sacred Place. Although this catalog offers a comprehensive look at the 2017 calendar, it is not a complete portrayal. I invite and encourage you to inquire about reservations for your church group or other organization, your family or yourself. Make a date for a retreat, a strategic planning session, camp, or a personal quiet day. Let us help make a new space for you in DaySpring: this Sacred Place. The Rt. Rev. Dabney T. Smith Fifth Bishop, Diocese of Southwest Florida
1985-1994 DaySpring purchases 17 acres, bringing our total to 93 acres.
1984 Curry Hall and Cabins 1-6 dedicated.
1986 Pavilion A aka “The Old Pavilion” constructed.
1988 St.Thomas Chapel transported to DaySpring from Safety Harbor.
The DaySpring Mission
1988 June 12 dedication of St.Thomas Chapel.
DaySpring plays a vital role in the mission and ministry of the Diocese of Southwest Florida. DaySpring’s mission is “to be a sacred place in the heart of our diocesan community that exists to enrich and empower all people in Christ.” We feel the best way to do that is through our ministry of hospitality. DaySpring is open to all persons who are seeking spiritual renewal and personal growth, regardless of denominational affiliation. Jesus says in Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
1990 Additional meeting rooms and dormitories built at Bishop Haynes Lodge.
1989 Executive Director Mike Rivera builds The Outdoor Chapel.
1990-94 Director’s House, Retreat House, Pool House added.
Welcome to DaySpring. DaySpring is one of the country’s finest camp and conference centers. Owned by the Episcopal Diocese of Southwest Florida, it is conveniently located a little more than an hour’s drive from all the major metropolitan areas of West Central Florida. DaySpring offers guests an unparalleled opportunity to experience peace and tranquility, stunning natural beauty and a sacred place where spirits are renewed, refreshed and made ready to re-enter the world. DaySpring is a place for all seasons, and all people. Our ministry of hospitality extends to persons of all ages and all faiths. We would love DaySpring to be your special place for a retreat, conference or camp. Carla Odell, Executive Director
2001 2000 Completion and dedication of Youth Cabins.
“New Pavilion” modular building is assembled as a temporary solution for the need to handle large groups.
Master Plan Transformation at DaySpring To build upon the legacy of DaySpring and expand its gift of hospitality, we recognize that a renovation is imperative. The ministry of DaySpring Episcopal Center bustles through the year, with programming for school groups and adult organizations each week, accentuated with the special energy of summer camps. Temporary buildings must give way to useful spaces customized for our varied programming needs at DaySpring, while optimizing the ratio of beds to meeting spaces. This will ensure that groups are not turned away due to lack of meeting spaces or age-appropriate lodging options. The latest audio-visual technology for world-class presentations, a dynamic swimming pool for Florida summer camp activities, a worship space to accommodate adult large gatherings and lodging accommodations that please seasoned travelers. These are the goals of our master plan, split into three phases. This transformation comes at a pivotal time when our aging structures, which have served us well for many years, are reconfigured to serve our diocesan vision for the future of DaySpring Episcopal Center. We are delighted to share our Master Plan, with the hope that you will see how this fits into our legacy already well in progress.
2010 Labyrinth built by DaySpring staff, thanks to a gift by the Episcopal Church Women.
2012 Dedication of Diocesan House on Sept. 12. Office of Bishop moves to DaySpring.
New For 2017! Program Center & Pool The new 12,500 square-foot Program Center will be our most flexible space, anchoring the most active area of the campus with amenities such as the pool, sports courts, open green space, fire pits, and youth cabins. It will serve as our primary facility for youth and adult programs, recreation activities, retreats, teaching, and worship. The new 2,000 square-foot pool and refurbished activity courts will be optimized for youth programming. This new sector will sit prominently but non-disruptively amid the nearly untouched wildlife that defines our campus. The Program Center is at the heart of DaySpring, where lives are visibly transformed with the inward spiritual grace of God’s presence.
2015 10-year Master Plan approved by Manatee County.
2014 DaySpring Development Committee produces 10-year Strategic Master Plan facilitated by Kaleidoscope, Inc.
2016 Phase 1 groundbreaking, March 1 for Program Center & Pool Complex.
2017 New pool, new program center!
Our Phase Two: Meeting/Worship Center The Meeting Center, in the planning stages, will immediately be recognized as the jewel of our property. A 15,000 square-foot facility with a total table seating capacity of 300 people. A large chancel area will overlook our wooded forest and the Manatee River, with south-facing windows to provide great light. The Meeting Center will be the worship space for our largest diocesan events and the most state-of-the-art building on the DaySpring campus. Its flexibility will better optimize the use of the overall conference center and significantly increase our ability to host multiple large groups at one time.
PROPOSED CONCEPT FOR MEETING CENTER
14,805 TOTAL SQUARE FEET
p.14
Adult Lodges The proposed Adult Lodges will be located in the area presently occupied by Cabins 1-‐4. These buildings will be two story structures, tucked back against the wooded backdrop. Each building will have 18 bedrooms, each bedroom with 2 queen size beds and private baths. Each lodge will have a large lounge area for community gathering and outdoor patios/decks. Replacing Cabins 1-‐4 with these two lodges will increase the total amount of adult beds from 76 beds (many singles) to 108 beds. Note: in the future, cabins 5 and 6 could be replaced with a third new lodge which would also allow for expansion, if demand is necessary.
Phase Three of Our Plan: Adult Lodges New Adult Lodges will be two-story structures, tucked back against the wooded backdrop. Each building will have 18 bedrooms, increasing the number of potential sleeping spots by nearly 60 percent and providing a more comfortable experience. These upgraded lodges will enable DaySpring to host expanded overnight offerings for adults and engage national leaders and teachers. Our learning community will be a beacon of health and hope in the Church and beyond.
PROPOSED CONCEPT FOR ADULT LODGE
13,170 TOTAL SQUARE FEET
p.17
Recreation Groups and individuals staying at DaySpring take advantage of the many activities found on our 97acre woodland campus.
Chauncey Brown Library
This library, named after the longtime award winning editor of the St. Petersburg Times, contains an excellent collection of religious history and Bible scholarship, including Anglican theology books from prior bishops and clergy. The library is equipped with large screen smart TV and is suitable for small meetings.
Canoes & Waterfront
Canopy Walk
Go up in the trees with our woodland Canopy Walk. It contains a short aerial bridge easily accessible by steps.
ECW Labyrinth
To the north side of the chapel is our Episcopal Church Women Labyrinth and Memorial Garden.
Outdoor Chapel
In temperate weather, visitors hold services in our Outdoor Chapel. The stained glass in the windows is from the original Church of the Holy Spirit, Safety Harbor.
St. Thomas Chapel
The historic carpenter gothic chapel, once in Safety Harbor, is now a centerpiece for DaySpring. Visiting groups may use the chapel. The Diocese of Southwest Florida holds regular weekday services there, including monthly Holy Eucharist and Morning Prayer.
DaySpring has a full set of Grumman canoes and kayaks, with instructors available as well as motorized boat for the canoe flotilla leader.
Manatee Overlook
Enjoy the view from our dock overlooking the Manatee River, with benches for contemplation and prayer, all situated under a Floridastyle chickee thatched roof.
Stations of the Cross To the west of the Outdoor Chapel is our outdoor Stations of the Cross, situated along our wetlands.
Practice Field
DaySpring can host a wide variety of football teams and sports leagues on this field, which is used for archery, soccer and other outdoor games.
New for 2017! Our pool and program area
High Ropes Course
High Ropes elements are situated in trees and posts between 25 and 40 feet above the ground. As participants ascend to these elements, they often perceive a level of danger and separation from participants on the ground. These feelings make High Ropes Elements particularly useful for fostering confidence and self esteem in participants. Each High Ropes Course is composed of a series of elements that are designed to pose different challenges to different participants.
Low Challenge Course
At first look, a Low Challenge Course doesn’t seem to be much more than a series of rope swings, balancing wires, and elevated platforms. However, with the addition of a trained facilitator, each Low Challenge Element becomes a powerful abstract metaphor for real-world problems that can only be solved by high-functioning teams.
Tree Climbing
A technical program using knots, allowing students to gain confidence as they tie their way, through knots, to the top. Source: Common Ground Adventures
Partner Programs Facilitating Outdoor Activities: Pathfinder & Common Ground Adventures Many of our outdoor offerings can be enjoyed by groups on their own; however, High and Low Ropes Courses, Tree Climbing, and Canoeing/ Kayaking, require trained facilitation due to safety requirements and equipment logistics. Contact DaySpring for details about facilitation by the DaySpring staff or one of our partners, Pathfinder and Common Ground. Reserve a time for your group by calling 941-776-1018.
Pathfinder
Pathfinder, Inc. is a non-profit organization that builds character and community through outdoor adventure. Pathfinder delivers their oneday or overnight programming at DaySpring. Pathfinder facilitators have current training in FirstAid, CPR and Water Safety and have expertise with teaching all ages and abilities.
DaySpring Collaboration with Pathfinder “Pathfinder has partnered with DaySpring for over a decade to provide adventures to groups of all ages. The sense of community created by the staff and the pride they take in their work has fostered this mutually beneficial relationship. We look forward to many more years of collaboration.� Sherry Bagley, Co-Director
Common Ground
Common Ground Adventures is an organization whose mission is to provide meaningful experiences that build relationships, promote personal growth and lead to individual accomplishment. The relationship with Common Ground brings experience as facilitators, managers, trainers and ropes course construction/inspection.
Partner Since 2000
“Common Ground has had a strong partnership with DaySpring since 2000, both managing their ropes course and providing programming for clients who visit the conference center. DaySpring provides a wonderful challenge and ropes course which offers quality adventure based programming. It is a model that has been duplicated with other facilities throughout the state, and is a special place for Common Ground.� Mark Lindsay, Founder & Director
Lodging Options wood paneled living room common area with fireplace give the Hall House a distinctly Florida flavor.
Adult Cabins
Each of our adult cabins, which are situated close to Curry Hall, have four bedrooms that sleep four privately or eight semi-privately. We have six lovely cabins. Cabins 1-5 have four rooms, each with two twin beds and a private bathroom. The newly remodeled Cabin 6 has four bedrooms, each with a queen bed and private bathroom. One bathroom in each cabin has been designated handicapped accessible. Each cabin has a spacious comfortably-furnished common room ideal for reading and quiet conversation or for small group meetings. The cabins accommodate up to 48 guests in private and semi-private rooms. They are connected to Curry Hall Dining Room via a well-lit paved sidewalk.
Pool House
This house has six bedrooms, sleeping six privately or 12-17 semi-privately with an open loft and 4 bathrooms.
Retreat House
Hall House
This riverside cottage, part of the original DaySpring property, has two bedrooms and sleeps two privately or three to four semi-privately. It is located on The Cove, with the Manatee River beyond. A screened porch with rocking chairs and
The retreat house, a two-story building with a view of the DaySpring canopy, has 10 bedrooms, and can sleep 10 privately or 20-22 semi-privately. There are two common areas that groups can use for meetings, programs and relaxation.
Reservations 888-314-5744 or 941-776-1018
Dormitories
These six dormitories are located in the central area of DaySpring and connected to Curry Hall dining room and Bishop Haynes lounge, which offers wifi, television and a reading room. Each of these dorms sleeps 12 on top/bottom bunk beds.
Youth Cabins
Our four youth cabins (named Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) are in a woodland setting adjacent to our program area. Each sleeps 32 on top/bottom bunk beds. Each cabin has a central common area with television. The four youth cabins can accommodate up to a total of 128 guests. Our program area comes complete with basketball and volleyball courts, Gaga pit, fire pit, open green space and a new pool opening February 2017.
A Sacred Space About Worship at DaySpring • •
•
St. Thomas Chapel: Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. DaySpring Labyrinth, Outdoor Chapel and Stations of the Cross: Open daily during daylight hours. Chapel Use for Groups: Please reserve at the Front Desk.
Personal Retreat Times
During these periods visitors are welcome to use the worship spaces at DaySpring for self-guided personal reflection. • The season of Lent, Mar. 1-Apr. 13 • Holy Week, Apr. 9-15 • Advent, Dec. 3-24
Eastertide Quiet Day
A day with Bishop Smith. Spend the day at DaySpring; lunch is included, as well as Eucharist and prayer and study time. • April 25, 2017
O gracious light, pure brightness of the everliving father in heaven. Phos Hilaron
St. Thomas Chapel Worship Quiet Days
A day of guided quiet reflection, sponsored by School for Ministry Development, all are welcome. Saturday, Jan. 7 and Aug. 26, 9 a.m.-noon
Morning Prayer
Saturdays at 8:00 a.m., sponsored by School for Ministry Development, all are welcome. Jan. 14, 28; Feb. 11, 25; Mar. 11, 25; April 1, 22; Sept. 9, 23; Oct. 7, 21; Nov. 4, 18; Dec. 9, 16
Weekday Morning Prayer
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9:00 a.m., sponsored by Diocesan Staff, all are welcome.
Monthly Holy Eucharist
First Wednesday of the month at 11:00 a.m., featuring new priests in the Diocese. Lunch follows for $10. All are welcome. Jan. 4, The Rev. Margaret Sullivan, St. Mark’s, Venice Feb. 1, The Rev. Daniel Lemley, Church of the Ascension Mar. 1, Ash Wednesday Apr. 5, The Rev. Chase Ackerman, St. John’s, Tampa May 3, New Rector, St. Vincent’s Sept. 6, The Rev. Matthew Grunfeld, Church of the Annunciation Oct. 4, The Rev. Canon Eric Cooter Nov. 1, Dec. 6 TBD
Spritual Strength Adult Formation & Renewal Cursillo
“A Short Course in Christian Living”, a weekend opportunity to grow in faith and in spirituality. De Colores, Spanish for the colors, signfies being in God’s grace. • #135: Feb. 9-12 • #136: May 18-21 (Spanish) • #137: Oct. 5-8
Recovery Ministries
For all people working a 12-Step Recovery Program. Contact the Rev. Dr. John Lindell, (239) 3541972 or Alfred Boettjer at (321) 508-3797 for more information. April 24-26, Steps 4, 5 & 6
As the deer longs for the water-brooks, so longs my soul for you, O God. Psalm 42
Education for Ministry: Mentor Training
Do you feel a call to lay ministry or teaching? One option is to become an Education for Ministry mentor. EfM is a four-year adult education program with groups meeting throughout the Diocese. During the training you will discern whether you are called to be an EfM mentor and gain the knowledge and skills you need to successfully mentor an EfM group. This training is open to anyone with a working knowledge of the Bible, church history, and theology. Mentor Training, May 18-20
School for Ministry Vocation Day Those interested in pursuing a ministry opportunity may attend an evening seminar and dinner hosted by the Commission on Ministry. This is an informal, conversational time of prayer and guidance about discerning God’s call toward any ministry in The Episcopal Church. Tuesday, Nov. 7, Chauncey Brown Library
Training for Deacons, Lay Leaders
The School for Ministry Development offers postulants a comprehensive and well‐rounded education in an environment that stimulates mutual learning, spiritual growth and continued discernment of God’s call. The School’s year is divided into three terms: Epiphany Term: Jan. 7 through Apr. 22 Summer Term: May through August (field education and Clinical Pastoral Training) Michaelmas Term: Aug. 26 through Dec. 16 Classes are typically held the second and fourth Saturday of the month at DaySpring Episcopal Center. The school begins each class day with Morning Prayer at 8:00 a.m. in St. Thomas Chapel. All are welcome to attend.
Transformation Youth Summer Camps Campers participate in a Christian program designed to help them grow spiritually and emotionally, providing opportunities to explore new interests, skills and friendships. Six sessions are planned for 2017; below are tentative descriptions of camps. Check episcopalswfl.org keyword “camps� for updates and further details. June 7-10, Session 1, Break Out Elementary Camp BREAKOUT is a special spiritual program aimed at elementary-aged students, along with all the traditional camp activities like canoeing. June 11-16, Session 2, Middle School Camp Canoeing, high and low ropes, sports and zip line are all highlights, with talent show, crafts and chapel. June 18-23, Session 3, High School Camp Canoeing, high and low ropes, sports and zip line are all highlights of the high school camp, which includes chapel and music. June 25-30, Session 4, Mission Camp Teams of middle school and high school students and adults from across Florida come to DaySpring to experience nearby missions. July 16-21, Session 5, Elementary Camp All the traditional and fun camp activities at DaySpring for students going into the 3rd grade to 5th grade. July 23-28, Session 6, High School Camp A special session geared to high school-aged youth.
New pool & program area open for 2017 youth events
Youth Formation New Beginnings The New Beginnings weekend event is designed especially to respond to the unique challenges and concerns of youth in grades 6 to 8. It was created by adults and young people to help participants grow in their love of themselves, others and our Lord Jesus Christ.
Mar. 3-5, #61; Sept. 29-Oct. 1, #62
Happening Happening is a unique high school experience weekend that helps teens foster a personal more meaningful relationship with Jesus Christ. During a Happening weekend, participants will experience the love of Christ through music, talk, prayer, worship and a community led by fellow students, all of which is supported by clergy and lay adults. Happening is open to all 9th through 12th graders. Apr. 28-30, #74; Nov. 3-5, #75
Youth Leader Gatherings Youth Leaders from throughout the Diocese are invited to network and learn. Christian formation leaders are also invited. TBD, offered twice a year, on Saturdays
Leadership 2017 Targeted Adult Programs Deacon’s Retreat
Feb. 25 All deacons in Southwest Florida are invited for this day of fellowship and learning.
College of Presbyters
Mar. 7 Annual gathering of priests in the Diocese of Southwest Florida. Featured guest, The Rev. Canon Frank Logue, Episcopal Diocese of Georgia.
Retired Clergy & Spouses Luncheon
March 8 A special program and luncheon for the retired clergy of the Diocese and their spouses. This year, the day features The Rev. Canon Frank Logue, Episcopal Diocese of Georgia.
Fall Clergy Retreat
Sept. 25-27 Overnight gathering of clergy in the Diocese at DaySpring.
Church Employee Gathering
This conference, sponsored by the Church Pension Group, focuses on topics that participants can use in their day-to-day lives to achieve financial and health wellness, for both today and tomorrow. Clergy and Spouses: Dec. 11-12 Lay Employees: Dec. 13
2017 Open Registration Adult Programs Food for the Journey Apr. 20-23 A Conference to Reimagine, Reconnect, Rejoice: A Journey toward God An opportunity through speakers, music, reflection and nature to be nourished, to stir creative juices, to ask questions, to get inspired. Our speakers for this year’s 3-day event are Brian McLaren (We Make the Road by Walking) and Sarah Bessey (Out of Sorts). Our musicians are Fran McKendree and friends. All rates include conference fees, lodging and meals. On-site private occupancy $550; On-site semi-private $500; Adventurer bunk rate $450; Commuter rate $350.
Hospitality of the Heart Retreat Nov. 17-18 Celtic spirituality has taught us to listen for the heartbeat of God. Life can teach us how to lead with our hearts as our lives are transformed. Passion, purpose, vision, teamwork and heart led ministry can transform our congregations. Come learn how to be truly welcoming. Rates to be annnounced, will include conference fees, lodging and meals.
Congregational Vitality Parochial Reports & Audits
Come get tips on these two important reporting requirements. Tuesday, Jan. 31
Communications
Practical discussions on how to get the “word” out to bring new people into our schools and churches. Word Out Day, Tuesday, Jan. 17 Word Press Training, Feb. 7 Website Help, April 11
Bookkeeper Networking ACS Users’ Day
A day of fellowship and learning for users of the ACS church bookkeeping system. Tuesday, May 23
QuickBooks Users’ Day Please join us for a round-table discussion of topics that interest QuickBooks users. Thursday, May 25
Christian Formation
The event will bring all those interested in Christian formation together in order to share information and network. Date TBD
Stewardship Workshop Vestry Retreat 2017: With the Rt. Rev. Gary Lillibridge This annual event is free to vestry members and assists the laity in leading their parishes. Speaker for the event is the Rt. Rev. Gary Lillibridge, Bishop of the Diocese of West Texas, speaking on transforming and reconciling congregation life. Saturday, May 6
Information to inspire and help your stewardship committee in preparation for fall stewardship appeals. Saturday, Aug. 26
Benefits & Budgeting
Update on employee benefits offered by Church Pension Group combined with the annual workshop to aid vestries and rectors with budgeting. Tuesday, Oct. 24
Fresh Start Presbyters’ Weekends
The Clergy Fresh Start retreat is a gathering where you make connections with new colleagues, engage in confidential conversations, and develop collegial friendships with other clergy. Also, the Fresh Start retreat is a gathering to assist you, a newly appointed/called clergy in the Diocese of Southwest Florida, to gain valuable insights that will benefit both you and your congregation. Feb. 3-4, July 28-29
Diocesan House Visits The staff of the Diocese serves our 77 congregations in Southwest Florida. We are open 9:00 to 4:30 daily, and welcome vistors to come see Diocesan House and consult with Diocesan staff on parish development, finance, communications, youth ministry and clergy deployment, among many other topics. Or just come by and say hello.
Rates & Reservations Call DaySpring for Accommodations DaySpring has guest houses, cabins, youth cabins and dormitories for housing during events. Meals are included. Contact DaySpring Reservations at 941-776-1018 (x258) or reservations@dayspringfla.org to plan your event.
Contact the Diocese for Events Contact Marilyn Erfourth at the Diocese for information on any of the events listed here at 941-556-0315 or register at merfourth@episcopalswfl.org
Room Amenities The room rate for overnight guests includes lodging, three meals per day (dinner the day of arrival through lunch the day of departure), and use of meeting facilities. Bed linens and towels are provided to guests in private and semiprivate rooms. Guests staying in our youth cabins and dormitories should bring their own linens; linens are available at $7 per set with advance notice. Rooms are available after 3 p.m. Quiet hours are between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m.
2017 Rates Room rates are per night, including three meals in the Curry Hall Dining Room: Private Room (includes linen & towels) $126 Semi-Private (includes linen and towels) $90 Youth Cabins (bunk beds) $65 Dormitories (bunk beds) $60
Dining & Catering Meal Plan, Curry Hall Dining Room All meals are included with overnight accommodations. Meals are served buffet style and include salad, fruit bars and dessert. We are happy to accommodate special dietary needs by prior arrangement. For non-overnight guests, the following rates apply: Breakfast $8 Lunch $10 Dinner $15
Thank You A Look at our Guest List DaySpring serves the congregations, schools and organizations of the Diocese of Southwest Florida as well as the larger Episcopal Church. In addition, we are blessed to serve other non-profit groups from a wide variety of interests and geographical areas. Arts: Manatee Mosaics & More Piecemakers Procrastinating Quilters Safety Harbor Scrappers Southwest Florida Quilt Guild Community: Footprints Beachside Recovery Matt Talbot Men’s & Women’s Retreats Relaxation Now Leadership Sarasota/Chamber of Commerce Wheel of Conscious Creation Churches & Religion: Bayside Community Church & Bayside Coaches Commission Lakeland Vineyard Men’s Retreat Suncoast Baptist Church Youth Environment & Outdoors: Pathfinder Common Ground Nature’s Academy Youth, Camps: Camp No Limits Camp Living Springs, Morton Plant Hospital Jewish Family & Community Services Camp Mariposa New Light Church Youth Schools: Florida Gulf Coast University Residential Life Northside Christian Band Out of Door Academy Pine Crest School Clearwater Central Catholic High School St. Thomas Episcopal Parish School, Miami University of South Florida
A New Day for the Episcopal Center In 1979, the Episcopal Diocese of Southwest Florida recognized the need for a place where guests from all over the world could congregate and worship in a tranquil, transformative environment. DaySpring found an idyllic home in 76 acres of “Old Florida� property along the north bank of the Manatee River, donated by the Hall family. Even then we knew that it would be the people of DaySpring who gave meaning and purpose to this sacred space. Today, a large number of the users of DaySpring are community organizations or groups not affiliated with the Diocese. This provides a solid, sustainable financial base and is one of the reasons DaySpring is uniquely successful as a diocesan camp and conference center. The new vision for the Diocese to expand intentional programming at DaySpring Episcopal Center holistically impacts all areas of the diocese. This new programming includes: congregational development, leadership training, personal retreats, youth camps, art workshops and conferences. The commitment of our congregations to set the Diocesan House (Office of the Bishop) on the campus in 2011 was met with an immediate rise in participation and initiative for parish events and new forms of diocesan gatherings. The new programming, along with the Master Plan facilities expansion, enable the missions and ministry of our vital congregations to unite and excel to greater heights together. We rejoice in consistent feedback from congregations whose members leave DaySpring with a smile - informed, renewed, inspired. Now as we enter a new era for DaySpring, we celebrate and invite your commitment and voice to our ongoing legacy here. Find out more at dayspringepiscopal.org
Location
Near the Sunshine Skyway, Close to Tampa, Orlando Minutes from the mouth of Tampa Bay and the Sunshine Skyway, DaySpring is located near the Ellenton exit of I-75, near Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Bradenton and less than two hours from Orlando. Take the Ellenton 301 North exit and we are 1.8 miles north on Route 301. Turn right on 80th Ave. E./Wellon Ranch Road between the Marathon gas station and Harris Professional Center. Our sign is at the second left.
Easy Air Connections We are 50 minutes from Tampa International/TPA and 25 minutes from Sarasota/SRQ. Amtrak offers service to Tampa, and connector shuttle to nearby Bradenton.
Reservations: 888-314-5744 or 941-776-1018
The DaySpring campus offers 97 acres of quiet, old Florida, with trails, waterfront activities and new Program Center and Pool area. DaySpring’s waterfront boat launch at Red Fish Point sits 14 miles from the mouth of the Manatee River at Marker 17, with about three to five feet of water. The 15-20 foot deep channel just outside of The Cove is much deeper, and can accommodate larger vessels. Look in The Cove for mullet, redfish and the occasional manatee and dolphin.
The Waterfront
Campus
DaySpring Episcopal Center Diocese of Southwest Florida 8005 25th St. East Parrish, FL 34219
Diocese: (941) 556-0315 or episcopalswfl.org DaySpring: (941) 776-1018 or dayspringfla.org
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