July 6-12, 2008
Directed Retreat

During this week each retreatant meets daily with a spiritual director who provides guidance in prayer. Daily Eucharist is offered and a Service of sacramental Reconciliation.

Rev. Aedan McKeon, OP, Sr. Nancy McAward, OP, Sr. Marise May, OSF,
Sr. Mary Ellen Curtin, CSJ and Judy Reger make up the team of directors.

This retreat will be given by Father Charles W. Smiech, O.F.M., a Franciscan International Retreat Director. The retreat will examine the life and writings of St. Francis and St. Clare. As they did, so we will gaze upon the Lord and be invited to transform our lives. A critical evaluation of our life in common will serve as the foundation which to clarify our vision of
Gospel principles and develop a more intimate union with Jesus. Participants are invited to “put aside our daily concerns so to embrace the holy ground within the sanctuary of the human heart and to listen to the unspoken Word of God.”

July 20–26, 2008
"Touched By the Master's Hand" Facilitated by Father Charles W. Smeich, OFM

This retreat will focus on the miracles of Jesus of long ago, throughout history and today. Once touched by the Master's hand, we are then invited to a radical conversion. While examining those who have experienced such a transformation in life, we will be encouraged to evaluate our own lives. This time together will provide a new awareness, and through the power of prayer and contemplation, bring about positive changes to better reflect Jesus within community living. Facilitated by Father Charles Smiech, O.F.M.

July 27- August 2, 2008
"Creativity As Sacrament: The Mystery, Grace, Power of Self-Expression" Facilitated by Jan Phillips

This retreat experience will be facilitated by Jan Phillips, artist, photographer, and author. It addresses creativity as a sacred gesture – one that involves collaboration with the Divine as a primary element of self expression. While we have been taught to see God as a force transcendent, above and beyond us, this experience embraces the Divine as a force within us. Through the use of music, imagery, poetry and writing experiences, we will connect with our Muses, our own divine creative spirits and collaborate in creating a unique and powerful work of art.

Jan Philips is a visionary thought leader, award-winning author and dynamic speaker. She ignites original thinking in individuals and organizations so they can increase their creativity while being a positive force in the world. She is known worldwide for her keynote speaking, creativity workshops and multimedia presentations, weaving storytelling, humor and multi-sensory experiences to inspire insights for life-changing action. She has authored The Art of Original Thinking, Divining The Body, God at Eye Level – Photography as a Healing Art, Making Peace – One Woman's Journey Around the World, and many other award winning books. She has appeared on radio and TV shows across the country and had her work published in numerous well known
publications.