Advent retreats, programs offered at retreat centers in December
Several retreat centers exist in and around the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. Below are selected retreats and programs each is offering during the Advent season.
One-day programs
On Dec. 6, the Kordes Center at Monastery Immaculate Conception, 841 E. 14th St., in Ferdinand, Ind., in the Evansville Diocese, is offering a program by Benedictine Sister Anita Louise Lowe titled “Eucharist: Called, Nourished, and Sent” from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
The Sunday Eucharist is called the source and summit of our faith. In this one-day program, participants will learn about the various elements of the eucharistic liturgy in order to gain a deeper appreciation for the liturgy, to enter fully into this celebration, and to become what is received—Christ for the world.
The cost is $75 per person, which includes lunch. Registration is due by Dec. 3, and is available online at www.thedome.org/programs or by calling 812-367-1411, ext. 2915.
On Dec. 13, Mount Saint Francis Retreat Center, 101 Mt. St. Francis Drive in Mt. St. Francis, will offer an Advent retreat on The Festival of Lessons and Carols from 2-6 p.m., with a celebration of the Festival at 7 p.m., followed by a reception.
According to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops website, “The Festival of Lessons and Carols is a service of Scripture and song that dates to the late 19th century [looking at the] promise of a Messiah, the Incarnation, and the Great Commission to preach the Good News.”
Franciscan Brother Robert Baxter will lead the afternoon session, speaking on Catholic traditions, music and Scripture revolving around Advent and Christmas.
The afternoon session is $25, which includes dinner. Registration is due by Dec. 4.
From 7-8 p.m., there will be a presentation of the Festival of Lessons and Carols, followed by refreshments. The evening event is free to the public.
For more information or to register for the afternoon session, call 812-923-8817 or e-mail retreats@mountsaintfrancis.org.
Multi-day themed retreats
On Dec. 12-14, Oldenburg Franciscan Center in Oldenburg will offer an Advent retreat titled “Journey with St. Francis.” The retreat begins at 7 p.m. on Dec. 12, and concludes at noon on Dec. 14.
During the gathering, participants will have time to reflect on the spiritual meaning of the Advent and Christmas seasons, focusing on how they share hope, joy and Jesus.
The retreat will be led by Franciscan Sister Jane McConnell, author of Daily We Seek You.
The cost of the retreat is $215 for a single room or $130 for commuters.
To register or for more information, call 812-933-6437 or e-mail center@oldenburgosf.com.
On Dec. 19-21, Saint Meinrad Archabbey Guest House and Retreat Center, 200 Hill Drive, in St. Meinrad will offer a retreat titled “Jesus: Savior and Son.”
The retreat will focus on Scripture to help prepare participants’ hearts for Christ’s coming.
The retreat will be led by Benedictine Father Jeremy King. The cost is $235 for a single occupancy room, and $395 for a double occupancy room.
Registration and more information are available online at www.saintmeinrad.org/retreats (select “Jesus: Savior and Son”), by calling 812-357-6585, or e-mailing ormzoeller@saintmeinrad.edu.
Self-guided retreats
On Dec. 15, the Benedict Inn Retreat and Conference Center, 1402 Southern Ave. in Beech Grove, will offer a “Listen with the Ear of Your Heart” personal day of retreat from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
A personal day of retreat at the Benedict Inn allows participants to relax, read a good book, walk the grounds, attend liturgy, or just be. It is a day set aside for reflection and time with God.
The cost is $35, which includes lunch and a room for the day. Spiritual direction is available for an additional fee.
To register, or if a different day is preferred, call 317-788-7581 or log on to www.benedictinn.org.
On Dec. 17-19, Our Lady of Fatima Retreat House, 5353 E. 65th St., in Indianapolis will offer silent self-guided retreat days and nights for Advent.
Participants may come for one or more days or nights to create their own self-guided quiet time with God.
To register or for more information, call 317-545-7681 or log on to archindy.org/fatima. †