ASH WEDNESDAY RETREAT

“Well begun is half done,” they say. Begin your Lenten Journey on retreat with some silence and prayer to help you listen for God’s direction for your Lenten prayer, fasting and almsgiving. How is God calling you this Lent? Liturgy included. Donation: $20. Please bring a bag lunch.

SIMPLICITY AS A LENTEN PRACTICE

Isn’t it amazing how we crave to simplify our lives even as our world becomes more complex, noisy and chaotic – where multi-tasking is the rule, not the exception? Would it help you to focus on simplicity for your Lenten practices this year? Contemplative Outreach publishes a booklet guiding us through a 40-day practice of simplicity, perfect for Lent! It will make a difference in you by Easter – guaranteed. Donation: $40, includes book and lunch

LENTEN OVERNIGHT RETREAT:
THE IMPACT OF GOD

This retreat is placed right at Lent’s beginning to focus your 40 days on the “Impact of God” in your life. You will receive Iain Matthew’s book by that title as a jumpstart for your journey and perfect Lenten reading. There will be time for your own rest, reflection and prayer as well as some prayer together and optional Spiritual Direction. What a way to begin Lent 2012! Donation: $65, includes book, breakfast and lunch

A FRIENDSHIP LIKE NO OTHER

A Friendship Like No Other explores the premise that God wants to relate to us as a close friend.  Fr. Barry approaches this idea with three well-supported and practical sections; prayerful exercises to help lead the reader to the conviction that God wants his or her friendship; a close look at objections to this idea; and reflections on experiencing the presence of God and discerning those experiences. A good Lenten choice. Donation: $25, includes book

LENTEN SERIES: SPIRITUALITY AND FASTING

We will gather at the beginning and end of March. In between we will read The Spirituality of Fasting by Msgr. Charles Murphy. My hope in offering this series is that we can rediscover the meaning and value of fasting as a spiritual practice that empties us and helps us be more attentive to God and God’s desire to fill our deepest longings. Let this series be a grace for you this Lent. Donation: $50, includes lunch both days and the book

THE INNER JOURNEY OF FORGIVENESS

Using the classic article of Fr. George Aschenbrenner, S.J. and the exercise in growing in forgiveness by Fr. Carl Arico, we will, with God’s grace, taste and savor the gift of being forgiven and forgiving others who have harmed us. Receiving and extending forgiveness sets us free to live in gratitude and joy. Donation: $30, includes materials and lunch

PERSONAL RETREAT DAY

Not a series.Take a day away from the busyness of your life to rest a while in the Lord and experience God’s presence. Come to Francis House for silence, personal prayer and optional spiritual direction. The day begins and ends with a brief prayer together. Donation: $10; $40 with spiritual direction. Please bring a bag lunch.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS:
SIMON AND VERONICA

This morning retreat will be dedicated to the Stations of the Cross, particularly Simon Helps Jesus Carry His Cross and Veronica Wipes the Face of Jesus. Come and pray. Lunch included. Love offering.

THE SPIRITUALITY OF STRUGGLE

S. Joan Chittister, O.S.B., has a wonderful way with words and expresses clearly our need for hope in the midst of struggle. During this retreat we will view three 30-minute DVDs by Sister Joan and discuss her message of hope. Bring your struggles with you! Donation: $25, includes lunch

SILENT DIRECTED RETREAT WEEKENDS

Due to the frantic pace of contemporary life, it is essential for our spiritual and physical health to take time to pray. The Weekend Directed Retreat offers you the opportunity to experience the graced rhythm of life in which rest restores your body and God revives your soul. Liturgy, Spiritual Direction and optional Contemplative Prayer periods are included. Please register early. These fill quickly.      Donation: $125/$40 non-refundable deposit with registration