What is a Retreat?

A retreat is a period of time-a day, a weekend or longer-when a person or group of persons comes away from the routine of daily living to an atmosphere of quiet and peace. The purpose of a retreat is to foster an ongoing process of prayerful listening and responding to the Spirit of God in the contemporary world. This helps the individual experience a deeper commitment to God through spiritual growth and development of the whole person. For descriptions of upcoming retreats at the Franciscan Center, see our Calendar of Events.

Private and Directed Retreats are available upon request and room availability. During a directed retreat, a retreatant meets daily with a spiritual director from the retreat staff. A private retreat is a period of solitude and prayer without spiritual direction. An individual directed retreat cost is $80/day; private retreat cost is $65/day. Meals and overnight accommodations are included.

Spiritual Direction is available for individuals who would like to meet periodically with a director in order to listen more attentively to God's communication in his/her prayer and life experiences. A spiritual director can ask reflective questions, point out resources, and assist in breaking through spiritual roadblocks. Call or e-mail the Center and ask for a copy of our brochure with details about spiritual direction and the staff of directors.

An offering in the range of $30—60 is customary for spiritual direction. Ask about scholarships available in cases of financial need.

Group Spiritual Direction is for individuals who seek to share their stories and experiences of God in an /atmosphere of prayer, support, discernment and openness to the Spirit. Call the Center office about the formation of such groups.

For information about Rates and Room Assignments - click here.