Leading Men and Women in Encounter Christ
The Abbey Guest Center introduced its new Encountering Christ silent retreats in January 2024. We had our vision and knew we wanted to lead retreatants into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. We desired to unpack and present the richness of Benedictine spirituality and the Benedictine tradition. We knew it was key to direct retreatants to lectio divina, the Divine Office with the monastic community, silence, an experience of God’s mercy in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and the Eucharist. But, at that time, we did not know what the response would be.
Several months later and after having completed 12 silent retreats, we know the impact these retreats are having on people. The response has been powerful. Based on the feedback and reactions of our guests, it seems that we are addressing a significant spiritual need and deep hunger in their hearts for the time, space, environment, and formation for a deeper encounter with Christ.
Addressing the needs of the Church has been one of the purposes of Conception Abbey, and it is reassuring to see that these Benedictine silent retreats are doing precisely that.
But, don’t just take my word for it, read the feedback from our retreatants who were willing to share how the Lord worked in their hearts during their retreats and how the focus and structure of the retreats fostered such an encounter here at Conception Abbey.
“The Encountering Christ women’s retreat was so rich in content for me and in the periods of silence. The talks were like arrows, hitting the bullseye of my soul. Through God’s mercy and grace I was able to grow in knowledge of self and of how our Lord is at work in my life.” – Sue T.
“The Encountering Christ retreat was my first silent retreat. I loved it. Being able to enter into the prayers, lifestyle, and peace of living centered on God without distractions is soul-filling and necessary. I look forward to returning and continuing on the journey of encountering Christ.” – Sarah H.
“I have been to other retreats before, but I found this retreat to be more meaningful and more blessed by joining the monks in prayer and by the practical instruction on lectio divina.” – Bill H.
“I enjoyed the retreat very much, because it struck a good balance between activity and intentional time for prayer, rest, and reflection. It encouraged me not only to follow and listen to Christ, but develop a personal relationship and trust and live with Jesus.” – Joseph N.
We want going on a retreat at Conception Abbey to be the norm for every Catholic’s spiritual growth. People are seeking God and hungering for a profound and personal encounter with Jesus Christ, silence, guidance on how to pray, healing in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, a sacred and prayerful environment, and a place of retreat where you can feel a sense of community, belonging, and support. If those desires speak to your heart, then we invite you to attend one of our Encountering Christ retreats. Invite your friends, family, or church small groups to share the experience.
— Fr. Paul Sheller, OSB
Director of the Abbey Guest Center
