   |
 |
    |
Q & A
How much does it cost to make a retreat at St. Anthony's?
The offering for most weekend programs during the 2007-2008 season is $140.00 per person. The offering includes a private room, linens and towels, and all meals. Occasionally, some programs carry an additional fee to accommodate the expenses incurred by using an outside facilitator. Private and directed retreats carry a different fee structure. Contact our office for details on any specific program. If you need to discuss special financial arrangements, please contact us. We make every effort to work with persons in financial difficulty to enable them to take part in our programs
What happens during a retreat weekend?
A typical retreat weekend begins with a 7:00 supper on Friday evening. Throughout the weekend a number of conferences are given. Prayer experiences are led by staff members and liturgy is provided. Ample time is allotted for personal prayer, reflection, and rest. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is made available and a healing service is offered. Staff members are also available for individual consultation with retreatants. The programs usually conclude with a meal following the Sunday morning liturgy.
What do I need to bring with me when I come on retreat?
We provide you with a private room, linens, towels, and soap. We recommend you bring casual clothing appropriate to the weather as well as any toiletries or other personal items you may desire. Many retreatants also bring books, journals, or other reflection materials along with them.
Are non-Catholics welcome?
People of many faith traditions frequently ask this question, and the answer is a resounding "YES!" People from many different faith backgrounds frequently DO attend our programs. It is our desire to provide an environment of hospitality to all who come seeking a relationship with God.
What is a silent retreat?
A silent retreat is one in which we request those attending to maintain silence from after the opening orientation session until the closing liturgy. An atmosphere of silence promotes an environment of deep listening. Such deep listening is useful for rest of body and soul, and attentiveness to the presence and action of God. All of our theme retreats are silent.
Are all of the retreats silent?
No. Some of our programs, by nature of the content and target audience, are not silent retreats. Many involve opportunities to process and share with others who are also journeying through the retreat experience. If you would like to know if a particular program is silent, please check with our office.
Is it possible to come on retreat at times other than those on the schedule?
Yes. In fact, this type of retreat is becoming very popular at St. Anthony's. The option is available to come for a private retreat for personal self-directed solitude and prayer time, or for a directed retreat where a spiritual guide or companion travels through your days of retreat with you. Please check with the office regarding available dates.
How does massage fit into the retreat experience?
We believe in an approach that honors the mind, body, spirit connection in each of us. The Lord can work powerfully through the touch of another, and thus we want to make this ministry of touch available to those who wish to incorporate massage into their retreat experience. Massage at St. Anthony's is administered by competent, nationally certified therapists. Massages are conducted prayerfully and professionally in a manner that honors the privacy of the recipient.