Blog

“The universe operates through dynamic exchange . . . giving and receiving are different aspects of the flow of energy in the universe. And in our willingness to give that which we seek, we keep the abundance of the universe circulating in our lives.” – Deepak Chopra The approach of a new year naturally invites reflection. This can feel both welcoming and a bit daunting. Using variations of the Ignatian spiritual practices of the Examen and ... 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...

Are you looking to go deeper in your relationship with God? Join us as we explore the Spirituality of St. Ignatius of Loyola. Our retreat will explore some of the key aspects of the spirituality which flowed out of the life and Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola, who was declared the Patron Saint of retreats by Pope Pius XI in 1922. This retreat will introduce participants to Ignatian methods of prayer, such as ... Continue reading...

Relying on the Communion of Saints All of us need a little bit of help in life, right? So, have you been in touch with any of the “saints” in recent days? We will spend the day looking at the formal process of sainthood in the Catholic Church, as well as going deeper into the lives of several saints and how they can relate to us and with us. Guided by Fr. Harry Geib, he will ... Continue reading...

This writer's retreat is designed for beginners, seasoned writers and those who simply want to better communicate through words. Our days together will include  morning presentations about writing, fast writing exercises (prompts), the reading of those writings and dialogue. After lunch there will be three hours to complete a writing assignment, and have time for walking, rest, and personal reflection. In late afternoon we'll gather to continue writing exercises, reading of assignments and more question ... 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...

We are continuing our series for Women's History Month and International Women's Day today. Let's learn more about the incredible achievements of Dr. Rebecca Cole and meditate on the creative words of Sarojini Naidu. Rebecca Cole graduated from medical school and became a physician in 1867. She was not only a pioneer for becoming a doctor as an African American woman at that time, but also a public health advocate and hygiene reformer in the US. ... Continue reading...

During our weekly planning meeting at the Retreat & Conference Center, we take turns volunteering to read a short reflection or prayer, setting the tone for our time together. Rainey Taylor, our Sales Manager, offered a beautiful reflection this week and we thought you all would enjoy it as well. Friends, we wish you enough. I wish you enough... Recently, I overheard a mother and daughter in their last moments together at the airport as the daughter’s ... Continue reading...

Book Recommendation: We are happy to have Sr. Chris Kollhoffer, IHM with us for a Lenten retreat next spring (click here to learn more). Sr. Chris is the author of Longing for the Endless Immensity and offered this excerpt for our blog today. If these themes and prayer practices interest you, we recommend purchasing the book to learn more and it will be available in our bookstore soon too. Longing for the Endless Immensity: Reflection and Prayer for Living ... 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...