WHAT TO EXPECT
The majority of our retreats follow the same format. After being warmly greeted and settling into your room, the retreat opens with prayer and Mass. The following days include shared meals, conferences, daily Mass, opportunities for Confession, communal prayer, and plenty of personal quiet time to grow in your relationship with God.
SEE ALL RETREATSFRIDAY EVENING
Registration typically opens at 7:00pm and all retreatants gather together at 8:00pm to pray the Rosary and celebrate Mass.
SATURDAY
The day begins with morning prayer in the chapel, followed by breakfast, a conference talk and Mass. After lunch participate in private devotions and rest. Gather together for another conference and the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The evening commences with the communal praying of the Rosary and Evening Prayer, followed by dinner. The evening ends with a Holy Hour, conference, and Benediction.
SUNDAY MORNING
As on Saturday, the day begins with morning prayer and breakfast, followed by a conference and Mass. The retreat ends after praying the Angelus and eating a final lunch together and sharing graces. We hope you depart with many graces and much peace after your retreat experience.
THE IMPORTANCE OF SILENCE
The solemn regard for silence is one of the most treasured traditions of a retreat. At Our Lady of Good Counsel Retreat House, silence is observed during the entirety of your retreat, except during announced periods of recreation. Though this can be a challenge to some at first, it is essential for cultivating the environment in which all retreatants can maintain their personal conversation with God.
INTERIOR SILENCE
By maintaining interior silence through conscious effort, you open yourself up to the movements of the Holy Spirit and make space to hear the still small voice of the Lord.
EXTERIOR SILENCE
Maintaining exterior silence – no music, talking, or disturbing other retreatants – is an act of charity, allowing your fellow participants to maintain their spiritual peace.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR RETREAT
PACKING LIST
We recommend comfortable clothing with good walking shoes, in addition to any needed toiletries and medications, plus any spiritual reading or other materials.
SPIRITUAL PREP
Prior to your retreat, make plans to limit anything that could distract you from fully entering into the retreat experience. Make sure things are taken care of at home, so you won’t spend the weekend worrying about such things.
WHAT'S PROVIDED
Each overnight room has its own toilet, sink, and shower. The Retreat House provides all bed linen (though some people prefer to bring their own pillow), blankets, towels, and soap. Shampoo and conditioner are NOT provided.