Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING A TYPICAL RETREAT DAY?
We begin the day together with an EXHALE, prayer and slowing, a brief teaching related to the content for the day and scripture meditation. Then you will have the rest of the morning and after lunch on your own – either following one of the guided solitude experiences we will provide or following your own prompting from God for rest, a walk in creation or conversation and prayer with Him. We will end the day together again for a time of reflection regarding what God has done and what you experienced – what was challenging and what you noticed.
DO I NEED TO BRING MY OWN FOOD?
Nope…breakfast and lunch, beverages (coffee, tea, water) and snacks are provided through out the day. If you have any accommodations that need to be made for food, please let us know when you register. We will see what we can do to help. Snacks always include fruit, trail mix, crackers. There is a small refrigerator if you would like to store something you bring yourself.
WILL WE EAT LUNCH IN SILENCE?
Lunch will be available. You are welcome to come and go during that time. The meal will be enjoyed in silence.
WHERE CAN I GO ON CAMPUS?
Our main retreat room is the chapel and will be available all day. You are welcome to come and go from there and leave your belongings there safely. And of course you can walk the beautiful grounds, the path to the river or just sit in a comfy chair inside or outside, including the library.
Please be respectful of others who are in silence as well.
WHO ELSE IS ON CAMPUS?
Ignatius House may have several groups each time we are there. Please be respectful of the shared spaces.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD I CONSIDER BRINGING?
Bring your bible, journal and comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate outerwear in case you want to take a walk on the beautiful property.
WHAT SHOULD I NOT BRING?
Technology: which would include laptops, iPads, cell phones (except for using them as a clock or camera).
Work related items (this is not catch up time).
The large stack of books next to your bedside.
Your children or pets.
IS THIS FOR MEN AND WOMEN?
This is for anyone, male or female, young or old, who longs for time away from the busyness and weariness of life to have a conversation with the Father.
WHAT CAN I DO TO PREPARE MYSELF?
Simply come with an open heart, mind and body and expect God to show up. We like to recommend the slowing and detachment process begin the minute you leave their home. Maybe turn off the car radio and cell phone as you drive. Begin to clear your mind and surrender your cares and to-do list to God.
SHOULD I REGISTER RIGHT AWAY?
YES! We love knowing who is coming as soon as you know you can make it. Once you register we begin praying for your time. Plus, there’s only so much room!
CAN I BUY A GIFT CERTIFICATE FOR SOMEONE ELSE?
Of course, what a great idea! You can go directly to the registration link here.
WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL? CAN I GET MY MONEY BACK?
We are not able to offer refunds at this time. Please consider giving this day as a gift to a friend. Or save your spot for the next event.
I’m a little nervous about a full day with GOD in silence. IS THAT NORMAL?
It is perfectly normal to wonder if God will show up, what if nothing happens, how will I be able to make it through a whole day, how will I ever be able to make up for the lost time? We’re confident of two things: God is here and you are loved. He’s been preparing the way and He will be there with you before, during and after your day together. And we know He wants you to experience just how loved and beloved you are to Him. Be expectant of those two things and anything else that happens is sheer gift and grace. We know that the fruit of the day will go far beyond the retreat day.
SHOULD I meet with a spiritual director?
That is a personal choice. If you have not experienced it, this might be a good way to give it a try.
WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY “SOLITUDE?”
Dallas Willard says that practicing solitude with silence is the most important spiritual discipline for people today. In our busy, noisy world we need to “unhook” and get away in order to be alone and be ourselves with our Lord. Solitude and silence make space — space in our souls and space in our lives — for God to touch us. A simple way to practice solitude and silence is to get alone with God and to be silent in a quiet place for some hours or days. Perhaps you take a walk on a nature trail or sit beside a lake or a creek. Or a quiet spot in a park or your backyard may work well. Even a secluded chair inside — as long as all your communication and media devices are turned off!
The point of your time in solitude and silence is to spend time in conversation with God and not try to make anything happen. In solitude and silence you’re learning to stop doing, stop producing, stop pleasing people, stop entertaining yourself, stop obsessing and let God come alongside you and fill you with His thoughts and fill you with His abundant life.