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Who is there that does not want to be happy? But happiness is not so much the goal of a spiritual life, as is joy. And joy is the fruit of a connection, a relationship, with the source of all joy, that is, God. Joy is experiencing God’s presence. In the span of seven days, we will carve out the journey which we are all on, not one just limited to passing happiness, but one ending ... Continue reading...

An Encounter of Intimacy: Perspectives on Biblical Examples In this retreat, from biblical perspective, we will explore various ways in which we can learn, develop, and experience an intimate encounter with God. Growing in spiritual intimacy with God is the goal of every Christian. There are countless biblical figures and examples that remind us of this truth. In his letter to the Colossians, St. Paul urges them to continue live fully in Christ: “Therefore, as you ... Continue reading...

This weekend retreat focuses on the spiritual wisdom of the Franciscan tradition. We will explore the insights of Francis and Clare of Assisi, Bonaventure, and Angela of Foligno, among other Franciscans, each of whom provides us with resources for renewal and prayer during this season of Lent. The retreat will feature presentations, group discussions and time for personal reflection. Fr. Dan will also celebrate Mass on Saturday and Sunday. Check-in begins at 3pm on Friday. The ... Continue reading...

When most folks think “What’s God’s will for me regarding such and such a situation?” they are asking a direct question and looking for a specific answer from God, as in, “To do or not to do.” There is, however, another equally good way of knowing for certain God’s will for you. It’s called “Discernment of Spirits.” It involves prayer, yes, and it also involves noticing what’s going on in your daily life that can ... Continue reading...

Begin the new year by focusing on your path ahead and tuning into God’s voice. Our winter directed retreat consists of five whole days (6-night stay) of spiritual direction. Retreatants will meet with a spiritual director daily (or less if you desire) to reflect on God’s Presence and movement in your life as revealed in prayer, the events and relationships in your life and the response to God that is being made. The spiritual director ... Continue reading...

Fr. Michael Schleupner offers another blog today with a powerful visual analogy about a familiar Advent reading from Scripture. Does this image resonate with you, inspiring you with hope, humility, truthfulness and patience? Sideling Mountain A voice cries: In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be lifted up, and every mountain and hill be made low; the uneven ground shall become level, ... Continue reading...

Today's post features the next in an Advent series from Fr. Michael Schleupner. Can you take a few quiet moments today to sit with this lesson, a homily that Fr. Mike shared last week? Getting Ready - 2 Dear Friends, The purple vestments of Advent call us to welcome Jesus more fully into our lives. We are to receive him into every dimension of our being. This will be our spiritual way to prepare for Christmas. To respond ... Continue reading...

Today's post is the first in an Advent series from Fr. Michael Schleupner, a beloved retreat presenter, spiritual director and priest who frequently celebrates Mass at our Center. Let's prepare our hearts and minds during this special period of waiting for the birth of Jesus. Getting Ready - 1 Dear Friends, During December, most of the focus is on getting ready for Christmas. Often enough, Christmas is presented as simply a holiday or week of holidays. I realize that ... Continue reading...

Fr. Michael Schleupner offers his next post in the series about the Ignatian Examen today. Please refer to previous blog posts to learn more and the preceding three steps. Let's spend a few quiet moments learning more about the 'action' phase of the Ignatian Examen. Ignatian Examen Step 4 – Being Contrite Dear Friends, This fourth step of the Examen follows from the third which was 'Looking Back'. In that step, we review the prior day or the day ... Continue reading...

Today's reflection is the 3rd in Fr. Michael Schleupner's series about the Ignatian Examen. For previous posts, please click here to review all of our blogs. Let's take a few quiet moments to read through Fr. Mike's thoughts about this phase of the Examen. Ignatian Examen Step 3 – Looking Back Dear Friends, After Seeking Light and Giving Thanks, we move to Looking Back. In this third step of the Examen, we review the prior day or the day ... Continue reading...