Blog

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...

Lenten Lunch & Dialogue: The Diary of Jesus Christ (Bill Cain, SJ) The Lenten Season is a fertile time within our faith to not only renew our foundational beliefs but to connect more authentically with the person of Jesus in our lives. With this appreciation, you are invited to join us for a delicious lunch and dialogue about Bill Cain’s recent literary work, The Diary of Jesus Christ. In this insightful text, the author vividly explores ... Continue reading...

The word, Lent, comes from the root meaning of “Spring.” What invitation might this unfolding season offer for the renewal and flourishing of our spirit? What tender shoots of kinship, compassion, and hope are we called to nurture during these days? Join us as we accompany Jesus and enter more deeply into a practice of presence that heals and repairs both our own lives and that of our beautiful, yet wounded world. This weekend will include ... Continue reading...

"Rend your heart not your garments, and return to the Lord, your God." (Jl 2:13) These words at the beginning of Lent invite us to take an inward journey during these 40 days to search our hearts as to where we stand with God and our neighbor and to enter more deeply into the Mystery of God's love. Join us for a quiet day of prayer as we begin the sacred Lenten season. The atmosphere for the ... Continue reading...

The painted turtle encased in warm muck at the bottom of the pond. The black bear shrinking in her den. Striped skunks enfolded in one another. Frozen wood frogs nestled in leaf beds. These beautiful creatures instinctively know what to do as the days shorten and the air grows cold. Like all of creation, we too are naturally inclined to hibernate and rest during winter, but that instinct has been suppressed over time. The advent ... Continue reading...

“The Lord will come and he will not delay.” (Cf. Habakkuk 2:3) Advent is about waiting and preparing for the coming of Jesus; commemorating his birth and first coming and also anticipating the second coming of Christ. But our Christian faith tells us that God is with us, already and still. This holy season also invites us to encounter God in the present, in the day-to-day of our lives. Set aside some personal time for this ... Continue reading...

Good Grief: Good Practices Psychotherapist and Bereavement Counselor, Annie Hisle offers uplifting spiritual practices that are helpful in dealing with the inevitable losses we face on our life journey. Annie believes that Losing and Finding are complementary to each other and fundamental to life. Significant loss or significant perceived loss leads most of us into shock, into the underneathness of life. It is in these depths that we question what really matters, learn some lessons , and are often ... Continue reading...

Quiet Mornings sessions are currently being held virtually on a different schedule. It occurs each month on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, and the 4th Saturday, from 10:30 am to 12:00 noon. Please email Joanne at jmcahooneph3@gmail.com  for the Zoom invitation. Quiet mornings provide an opportunity for quiet – for reflection, prayer, listening, presence – in common with others. Perhaps you’d like to carve out time, but could use the support of a structure that is ... Continue reading...

Rainey Taylor, Sales Manager at the Retreat & Conference Center, shared this inspiring excerpt during our staff meeting this week. What will you do today? Today I will…. “Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”   Ephesians 5:15-16 Today I will make a difference.  I will begin by controlling my thoughts.  A person is the product of his thoughts. I want ... Continue reading...

Today's reflection is shared by Jen Murphy, the Center's Retreats & Events Manager. Let's read her thoughts sparked by an upcoming retreat theme... Peace In the Middle of the Pieces One of my favorite retreats to plan is our annual Women's Wellness retreat. Unlike other retreats on our schedule, this one is very hands-on for me and our committee of other staff members. A featured presenter offers various themes that we pick from and they are responsible ... Continue reading...