Retreats Sponsored by St. Francis Retreat House

“Into Great Silence”, Week Long Silent Retreat; June 26

“Windows to the Soul” : Icon Writing Workshops; Sunday July 17 – Friday July 22 (already sold out; Sunday July 24 – Friday July 29)

Weekend Recovery Retreat, “Acceptance”; July 15

“Franciscan Retreat”; September 30

Monday Evening Mini Retreats

Monday Mini Retreat Programs begin with a meal in our dining room at 6:00 p.m. Following the meal, we meet in our main conference room for prayer and a presentation. There is time for discussion before the closing prayer at 9:00 p.m. Registration begins in the lobby at 5:15 p.m.

January 25: “Comfort the Sorrowful”

We begin our series of mini-retreats reflecting on the traditional seven “Spiritual Works of Mercy.” This evening our theme will be “Comforting the Sorrowful.” In this post-holiday, mid-winter time of year we may find ourselves dealing with the so-called “doldrums.” How can our spirits be uplifted in times of boredom, loss, and distress? Presenters: Laura Long and Nina Corona.

Donation: $25.00

February 29: “Admonishing the Sinner”

“Admonishing the Sinner” is another spiritual work of mercy. We are both saint and sinner as we journey through life. As a consequence we need challenge, encouragement, and compassion in order to feel and to be a peace with the Lord. Presenter: Most Rev. John Barres, Bishop of Allentown, Pa. Donation: $25.00

March 21: “Forgiving Injuries”

One of our most difficult challenges is that of forgiving ourselves and others. Hurts are heavy burdens, and healing often comes slowly. “Forgiving Injuries” is the spiritual work of mercy we seek to understand and appreciate this evening. Donation: $25.00

April 25: “Showing God’s Love to Those Who Seek Him.”

For the most part, we are all “seekers.” We look for completeness, belonging security, and peace, and we are often blind as to where these needs will be met. The answer: God alone, in His love for us, can and will provide, if we seek His word of truth and act on it. Presenter: Ms. Jeanne Hunt. Donation: $25.00

September 26: “Counseling the Doubtful.”

As the popular liturgical hymn reminds us, “We are companions on the journey.” We do not and cannot walk alone as we seek to be faithful disciples of Jesus. In our fears and doubts, we need the encouragement, support, witness, and consoling words of our brothers and sisters. Presenters: Carol Herman and Diane Rice. Donation: $25.00

October 24: “Praying for the Living and Deceased”

“Praying for the Living and Deceased” is the work of mercy for our reflection this evening. We are exhorted to pray, but why? We are reminded to “pray without ceasing,” but how? We pray for one another, but sometimes we ask “to what avail?” These questions continue to cross our minds, and we can discuss them this evening. Presenter: Dr. Carmina Chapp. Donation: $25.00

November 21: “Bearing Wrongs Patiently”

Other people hurt us; we hurt others, sometimes without even knowing that we do so. “Bearing Wrongs Patiently” can be a daily work of mercy that will enrich us and bring peace to our hearts. Presenter: Most Rev. Ronald Gainer, Bishop of Harrisburg, Pa.

December 14:”Celebrating Mercy with Joy”

As the solemnity of Christmas draws near, we celebrate mercy with joy. This evening we will watch “It’s A Wonderful Life,” the classic film of mercy and holiday rejoicing. Join us for a meal and a movie to prepare our families for the Feast of Mercy, the Birth of Jesus.

Monday Mini Retreat Programs begin with a meal in our dining room at 6:00 p.m. Following the meal, we meet in our main conference room for prayer and a presentation. There is time for discussion before the closing prayer at 9:00 p.m. Registration begins in the lobby at 5:15 p.m. The donation for these mini-retreats is $25.00 per person. *Please preregister at least 10 days before the program so that we can know how many meals to prepare and the number of hand-outs we need to print.

May the Lord give you peace!
The Franciscans and the Retreat House Retreat Team.