about the perch
The Perch helps exhausted people connect with God to rest, find peace, and experience transformation. Designed to be a resting place, we offer an environment to experience rest, renewal, reflection, and rejuvenation.
We believe in order to love and live well, we need to experience love, healing, and holistic health ourselves. Toward this end, we offer retreats, classes, workshops, groups, and resources to help you develop in these areas. You'll find that we're always adding to our calendar, so check back often to see our latest offerings. We are led by our director, Amy Jackson, and we're located in the heart of Aurora, Illinois. We hope you'll join us soon for an event!
The Perch is an inviting, supportive, and healing haven for ALL on the faith journey. If you're LGBTQIA, know that you'll be fully welcomed and affirmed here.
Unhurried: A 52-Week Meditative Bible Reading Guide
Slow down. Take a deep breath. What’s the hurry? Why wear yourself out? Just what are you after anyway? —Jeremiah 2:25
Unhurried shows you how to slowly, thoughtfully, and meditatively read the Bible. It invites you to kick off your shoes, settle into your favorite chair, and linger in God’s presence. There, you can hear God’s still, small voice and experience transformation in your heart, mind, and soul.
Over 52 weeks, you’ll discover a multitude of ways to sit with Scripture, enjoying God’s presence. Whether you're just beginning to read the Bible, or you've been reading it for years, these practices will help you cultivate an unhurried life from the inside out that allows you to hear from God each day.
upcoming events
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Saturday Morning Yoga
Aug 28, Sept 4, Sept 11
60 minutes. Just for you. Come breathe and stretch with us on Saturday mornings at The Perch! These beginner-level yoga classes will help you start your day feeling grounded, strong, and refreshed. Grab your yoga mat and join us from 9-10 am. Register to reserve your spot!
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Permission to Pause Retreat
October 2 or 9
What if God is inviting you to pause, rest, and recharge—right now in the midst of the busyness? Enjoy a retreat focused on helping you breathe, rest, and find ways to pause every day that will help you connect with God and recharge throughout the day. Virtual Retreat is October 2, and the In Person Retreat is October 9!
Personal Retreat at The Perch
Book Your Time Now
Get away by yourself at The Perch! Enjoy our spacious room all to yourself with gorgeous views of the Fox River. You’ll instantly feel calmer as you walk through our door and find a comfortable seat. Get away for some peace and quiet to read, reflect, or pray. Half and Full Days Available.
what we offer
Retreats
Get away, breathe, and reflect. We provide spaces where you can rest a while, recharge, and then return to living your calling. We especially welcome church leaders. See our upcoming events here or book The Perch for a Personal Retreat here.
Church Leader Events
We love people who serve the church and want to support you with unique events. Learn a new skill, connect with other leaders, and rest a while in the company of others who get it at our quarterly Ministry Leader Retreats.
Workshops and Classes
Invest in your growth by attending a class at The Perch. You'll experience a unique learning atmosphere where you'll learn skills to engage God, others, and yourself more deeply. See all our events here.
Soul Care Sessions
Sometimes we need to process our soul care and spiritual development out loud—with someone else. Soul Care Sessions are one-on-one appointments with Amy Jackson, founder and director of The Perch. Learn more.
Resources
Check out our blog and our store as well as our guided meditations for our latest resources to help you engage God, others, and yourself in meaningful ways. We want to see you thrive as you live your calling.
Custom Events
Create a custom retreat or training event for your group or staff team. Amy Jackson will work with you to create and lead the perfect event for your group. Contact Amy directly.
the perch blog
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
"The retreat gave me time to focus and think about what’s important. I thought I would leave with a list of tangible goals (my type A personality) but instead I left with more of a change of heart. A much needed one! Thank you."
— Debbie R.