Frequently Asked Questions about Retreats
What is a retreat?
Retreat is a gift to yourself — a way to step aside from everyday concerns to relax and care for your soul. We provide time for rest, reflection, prayer, and discussion. Your retreat can be as structured or as unstructured as you like. You can catch up on some rest, reconnect with a friend, get a massage, stroll the labyrinth, spend time in meditation, or be inspired by a dynamic speaker. Most weekend retreats begin Friday evening with dinner at 6:00 pm and end on Sunday at noon.
What do you do on retreat?
Retreats at Holy Family are comprised of conferences, workshops, prayer services, and free time. While the schedule is open for everyone, all the programming is voluntary. We encourage you to attend the activities that interest you and plan your time accordingly. View a sample schedule which will be followed during most themed weekend retreats.
What is the theme of a retreat?
The retreat team at Holy Family develops a new theme each summer to be presented throughout the retreat season (September-June). In addition, various workshops are offered each weekend to support the retreat theme. Learn about our current retreat theme.
When does a retreat take place?
Retreatants begin arriving after 3:00 p.m. on Friday afternoon. A buffet dinner is available from 6:00-7:30 p.m. in the dining room. The retreat officially begins at 8:00 p.m. on Friday night and concludes on Sunday around noon. We also invite retreatants to join us for A Day to Breathe by arriving on Friday morning of your retreat weekend (any time after 9:00 a.m.) for an additional offering of $50. Check in early, enjoy some quiet time and a nurturing lunch, and settle in before the retreat begins.
Who goes on retreat?
Tens of thousands of people of all ages and from all walks of life consider Holy Family their spiritual home. Some are searching for God. Others are simply trying to find a greater sense of peace in their lives. Some come from traditionally religious backgrounds. Others consider themselves 'spiritual but not religious'. You don't have to have a strong religious background to feel at home at Holy Family. What you do need is a thirst for a more peaceful life lived with compassion and love.
Why make a retreat?
Our lives are so full of responsibilities, worries, and noise that we often ignore the call of our inner lives. Our concerns with families, jobs, health, finance, and personal relationships may override our commitment to spiritual growth-- even when we need it most. A retreat helps us regain balance and develop the necessary spiritual tools to access the presence of God in the midst of daily life.
Can I have my own room?
Unless you request a roommate, a private room will be assigned to you. Our accommodations are simple and impeccably clean. Evident in our bedrooms and throughout the retreat center is the deep care that our dedicated housekeeping staff invests to help our guests feel at home and at peace.
Is Holy Family accessible for people who use wheelchairs?
Yes, Holy Family is a fully accessible facility with elevators and ramps throughout the building. Our staff enjoys providing assistance to anyone with special needs.
What should I bring on retreat?
The dress at Holy Family is comfortable and casual. You should bring any toiletries that you may need. We will supply all the bed linens and towels for the weekend. During the Winter, it may be helpful for you to bring warm clothing if you wish to enjoy our labyrinths and walking trails.