My journey into retreat-life began in 2007 when I attended my first retreat called Christ Renew His Parish (CRHP).  The seed had already been planted through the faith and influence of those closest to me, especially my mom Susie.

 

After the retreat something within me began to take root. I didn’t know then how God would nurture that seed, or where it would eventually lead. What started as a personal encounter with God became a lifelong calling.

 

What I experienced in those days was profound and life changing. The stillness, conviction, renewal, and the quiet nearness of the Holy Spirit stayed with me long after the retreat ended, a quiet flame that God would nurture over time into faithful obedience.​

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I've attended several retreats throughout the years, to currently  being on the teams that facilitate, steward and support retreat structure.

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My work is grounded in Scripture, faith, prayer, and years of personal and team-based retreat experience. I've witnessed firsthand the transforming power of the Holy Spirit when we step away from the noise of everyday life and draw near to God.

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These experiences shaped not only my faith, but my understanding that retreats are not just an event, they are divine appointments.

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Paloma Retreats approach is firmly grounded in Scripture and shaped by the Word of God. The vision for Paloma Retreats was born in prayer. There was a growing hunger around me and I wanted and needed to share the magnitude of the God we serve, more depth, and more stillness. All the Glory to God.

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When I first announced (Oct 2025) I would begin hosting and facilitating retreats, the response was immediate. Within 24 hours, an entire month was fully booked. By December 2025, I had to gently reschedule participants into the new year so I could prayerfully steward what the Lord was unfolding. How great is our God?!

 

"With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." Matthew 19:26

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I am an ICF (ICCE) certified coach and retreat facilitator, offering Christ-centered retreats and Holy Spirit-filled meditations, trusting fully in what God is preparing and unfolding through each retreat experience.

I hope and pray you all come and retreat with us.

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Sylvia Ybarra
Founder & Lead Facilitator,

Paloma Retreats