About Us
Who We Are
Our retreat center is a place for spiritual growth and renewal, where individuals can find the peace and solitude needed to reconnect with their inner selves. As Thomas Merton said, "Solitude is not the absence of love, but its complement," and here, we offer space for meditation and reflection, allowing you to nurture your soul. We embrace all who seek rest and restoration, regardless of their faith or background. Everyone is welcome to find what they need, surrounded by tranquility and open hearts.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide a peaceful sanctuary where individuals of all faiths can experience spiritual growth, renewal, and communion with God through nature and reflection. We are committed to offering a welcoming space for meditation, restoration, and personal connection with the divine, fostering an environment where all are embraced and encouraged on their unique spiritual journey. With a deep respect for God's creation, we strive to promote sustainability, organic living, and harmony with the environment, creating a place of healing and transformation for the soul.
Our Vision
Our vision is to be a transformative retreat destination where people from all walks of life come to experience deep spiritual renewal and connection with God’s creation. We envision a place where individuals and groups can find peace, inspiration, and growth through quiet reflection, nature, and community. As we continue to expand, we aim to provide a diverse range of retreats, educational programs, and experiences that cultivate spiritual development, environmental stewardship, and a deep sense of belonging for all. Our ultimate goal is to be a sanctuary of healing and restoration, fostering a profound connection with God, oneself, and the world around us.
Meet Mark & Beth Wethington
Mark and Beth Wethington's journey together began in fourth grade, and they now share the joy of six children and six grandchildren. After 30 years as a United Methodist pastor, Mark took over the presidency of the Wesley Heritage Foundation that his parents and he founded in 1990. The foundation focused on fostering theological education in the Wesleyan tradition in Latin America, translating and distributing John Wesley’s works into Spanish (Obras de Wesley) and developing a seminary in Lima, Peru. Mark is currently pastor part-time at the Antioch Christian Church in the Lake Gaston region. Mark and Beth both have been involved in the local community and have enjoyed the opportunity to host community events and gatherings at the retreat center.
The Story of Solitude Farm & Retreat
In 2021, Mark and Beth Wethington stumbled upon the perfect place for their dream of living off the land in peace and quiet, when they saw a "for sale by owner" sign while driving down the road. This marked the beginning of Solitude Farm & Retreat, a tranquil haven built on a vision of connecting with nature and opening it to others. The property, which was once farmland, already featured a large barn that has been partially renovated, with plans to transform its upstairs into an upper room prayer chapel. The retreat center also includes a tobacco stick barn, which they’ve repurposed, with some of the poles being creatively turned into a bridge over a stream. The original farmhouse sadly burned down years ago, but the Wethingtons are committed to honoring the property’s roots while creating a space for spiritual renewal.
Living in Lake Gaston while they work to establish their retreat, the Wethingtons have big plans for the farm, including adding goats and chickens to their homestead. They are currently working on building a house on the property, which they expect to be in place by April 2025. With each step, Solitude Farm & Retreat continues to grow as a space where others can come and experience the serenity of nature, a peaceful retreat from the busyness of life, and a place to connect with God in the quiet of the land.
