Our retreat takes place in Occitanie, France, known colloquially as Cathar Country. In the High Middle Ages this region was home to a large group of people that belonged to a pacifist branch of Christianity characterized by their embrace of tolerance and humanity over wealth. Gaining prominence during the so-called renaissance of the twelfth century, this movement marked a significant cultural shift as more of Europe began to question antiquated ideas of the feudal system, class division and religious practices, ushering in a period of intellectual and spiritual transformation and experimentation.
This great awakening heralded a new era, often discovering the sublime beyond the confines of orthodoxy. As this movement gained traction the convergence of concentrated powers and wealth from Île de la Cité and the Vatican condemned its influence, changing the lives of the people in Occitanie drastically.
Their dramatic histories continue to teach us today, forming an integral part of every child’s education in France. It is here where Catherine will step in.
Immersed in the landscape surrounding Montségur, the last standing Cathar castle, Catherine will take us on a journey of love, courage and vulnerability, sharing lost stories of the Cathars as well as the profound experiences that led her to writing her historical fiction “Montségur: a novel.”
Drawing from her research and experience living in the region, Catherine will explain the historical significance of areas such as the Labyrinth, Montségur, and the mystical Rennes-le-Château, as well as how the influences of Mary Magdalene, the Roman Catholic Church, and the King of France impacted the lives of people whose descendants inhabit the area to this day.
Highlighting the power of community and relationships, our first Salon promises an immersion in a society characterized by a notable absence of class division and a deep respect for individuals. From nobles to shepherds, merchants to troubadours, the community as a whole contributed positively to fostering a unique culture of peace and order.
For more information about Catherine, please visit her website.
