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Benedictine Retreat Center
Ministry to Ministers
supporting ministers as they seek to be faithful to their ministerial vocations
For more information or to register
Email the Benedictine Center or call 651.777.7251
Registering last minute?
While we welcome walk-ins, it is always wise to call 651.777.8181
to insure that an event has not been filled or cancelled.
Personal Retreats, Self-Care Days
Plan a day of quiet reflection, an overnight stay, or a retreat of several days tailored to individual needs and interest. Spiritual direction available as desired. Call 651.777.7251 or email the Benedictine Center.
FEBRUARY
When Our Hearts Are Wintry: How Do We Practice When We Don’t Feel Like Practicing
Lisa Cressman
Thu., Feb. 9, 7-9p
$25
Whether one’s primary spiritual practice is lectio divina, centering prayer, writing, or another form of meditation, there will be times when the heart is wintry. This session explores wisdom from the Christian tradition about renewing and maintaining one’s openness to the movements of God. Register online.
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Hermitage Experience
S. Virginia Matter OSB
Fri., Feb. 10, 7p to Sun., Feb. 12, 1p
$150
After a common orientation, participants spend the weekend in silence as they read, pray, meditate, and rest in the hospitality of the monastery. Limit 10 participants. Register online.
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iLLUMINARE Ministry Renewal Day
Jackie Witter
Fri., Feb. 17, 9:30a-3p
$30
iLLUMINARE Ministry Renewal Days are ecumenical days of reflection for full-time and volunteer ministers (lay and ordained) that draw on Scripture and the wisdom of the Christian tradition to reflect on as they illuminate the practice of ministry. The days include theological reflection, lectio divina, time for personal prayer and reflection, brief presentations, and conversation with other ministers. Guests new to iLLUMINARE are welcome. Register online.
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Taizé Prayer
Fri., Feb. 17, 7-8p
Taizé prayer uses simple chants based on the Scriptures
and periods of silence to create an environment for
encountering the mystery of God. Walk-ins welcome.
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Benedict on Prayer Series
BC Staff
Tuesdays, 7-8:30p, Feb. 21 thru Mar. 27
$75 for series; $20 for single evenings
For Benedict and throughout centuries, prayer has been the core of monastic life and community. In this series of six evenings, the staff of the Benedictine Center guides participants through an experience of Benedict’s key insights on prayer and discipleship. Each evening ends with Compline with the monastic community. Attend all or one. Those new and experienced with Benedictine prayer welcome.
Click here to register for the series or click the titles to register for one event.
Feb. 21 Come and Pray As the Bell Tolls: Explore God’s Call and the Human Response (S. Virginia Matter OSB and Sam Rahberg OblOSB)
Feb. 28 The Work of God: Unearth the riches of the Liturgy of the Hours (Jackie Witter)
Mar. 6 Scripture and Prayer in the Rule of St. Benedict: See how the biblical vision of discipleship influenced Benedict’s teaching and leadership (S. Virginia Matter OSB)
Mar. 13 Acedia and Prayer: Be encouraged by insight for those who are restless and having difficulty working or praying (Jackie Witter)
Mar. 20 Psalms: Enter the heart of Benedictine prayer for the sake of the world (S. Carol Rennie OSB)
Mar. 27 The Way of Lent: Envision a life attending to the presence of God (S. Carol Rennie OSB and Sam Rahberg OblOSB)
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MARCH
Great Conversations Series: Spirituality vs. Religion?
Victor Klimoski
Thu., Mar. 1, 9a-1p
Freewill Offering
Conversation has the power to inspire and transform. In that spirit the Benedictine Center has commissioned six facilitators to host six unique conversations over the course of 2011-2012. Each morning will include a brief reflection leading into dialogue. Afterward the facilitator will assemble a summary of the insights which emerge from the discussion. Each conversation is limited to 12 participants. Contact the Benedictine Center if you have a particular interest in one or more of these conversations. Lunch is included in the experience.
TBD If There is a Common Good, What Happens to My Freedom? (with Dr. Bernie Evans)
Mar. 1 Spirituality vs. Religion? (with Dr. Vic Klimoski)
TBD How Do We Cultivate A Sense of Vocation About Our Work? (with Laura Fanucci)
Jun. 19 When Can Doubt Strengthen Faith? (with the Rev. Paul Witmer)
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The Story Within: Movies and Meaning
Jackie Witter
Thu., Mar. 1, 6:30-9:30p
$15
Movies can serve as contemporary parables, providing insights into life, faith and the human condition. Join Jackie Witter for a stirring movie followed by a conversation exploring the story it tells and the layers of meaning it reveals. Register online.
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Five Key Obstacles to Collaboration
Barb Sutton
Tue., Mar. 6, 9a-3p
$40
No one can argue with the value of collaboration as an idea. Its roots go deep in Christian tradition. But as some of the exhortations in New Testament writings suggest, the ideal always seems to falter. In this workshop, Barbara Sutton looks at five obstacles that impede the development of collaboration both as a practice of mutual leadership and as a disposition for forming pastoral teams. The opposite of each obstacle points to its remedy. Register online.
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Steadfast: Living the Benedictine Sense of Stability
Abbot John Klassen
Fri., Mar. 9, 7p to Sun., Mar. 11, 1p
$200 includes lodging and meals Fri thru Sun;
$100 commuters Fri thru Sun;
$35 for Fri eve only
The Benedictine commitment to stability has stood the test of time, continuing to serve as a clarion call amid society’s clamor for consumption and relentless activity. Abbot John Klassen OSB of Saint John’s Abbey will explore stability as a keystone of Benedictine spirituality and indispensable aspect of Christian discipleship. A Friday evening lecture is open to the public and introduces broad themes. Register for Friday evening only or register for the entire weekend (overnight or commuting) as Abbot John continues to unpack the riches of Benedict’s lasting insights on stability. Space is limited.
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Taizé Prayer
Fri., Mar. 16, 7-8p
Taizé prayer uses simple chants based on the Scriptures
and periods of silence to create an environment for
encountering the mystery of God. Walk-ins welcome.
[ back to top ]
Great Conversations Series: Spirituality vs. Religion?
Victor Klimoski
Thu., Mar. 1, 9a-1p
Freewill Offering
Conversation has the power to inspire and transform. In that spirit the Benedictine Center has commissioned six facilitators to host six unique conversations over the course of 2011-2012. Each morning will include a brief reflection leading into dialogue. Afterward the facilitator will assemble a summary of the insights which emerge from the discussion. Each conversation is limited to 12 participants. Contact the Benedictine Center if you have a particular interest in one or more of these conversations. Lunch is included in the experience.
TBD If There is a Common Good, What Happens to My Freedom? (with Dr. Bernie Evans)
Mar. 1 Spirituality vs. Religion? (with Dr. Vic Klimoski)
TBD How Do We Cultivate A Sense of Vocation About Our Work? (with Laura Fanucci)
Jun. 19 When Can Doubt Strengthen Faith? (with the Rev. Paul Witmer)
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The Story Within: Movies and Meaning
Jackie Witter
Thu., Mar. 1, 6:30-9:30p
$15
Movies can serve as contemporary parables, providing insights into life, faith and the human condition. Join Jackie Witter for a stirring movie followed by a conversation exploring the story it tells and the layers of meaning it reveals. Register online.
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Introduction to Centering Prayer
S. Virginia Matter OSB
Fri., Mar. 2, 9a-2:30p
$50
This ancient spiritual practice is a Christian way of meditating that teaches one how to listen for God’s invitation to deeper relationship. Register online.
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Five Key Obstacles to Collaboration
Barb Sutton
Tue., Mar. 6, 9a-3p
$40
No one can argue with the value of collaboration as an idea. Its roots go deep in Christian tradition. But as some of the exhortations in New Testament writings suggest, the ideal always seems to falter. In this workshop, Barbara Sutton looks at five obstacles that impede the development of collaboration both as a practice of mutual leadership and as a disposition for forming pastoral teams. The opposite of each obstacle points to its remedy. Register online.
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Steadfast: Living the Benedictine Sense of Stability
Abbot John Klassen
Fri., Mar. 9, 7p to Sun., Mar. 11, 1p
$200 includes lodging and meals Fri thru Sun;
$100 commuters Fri thru Sun;
$35 for Fri eve only
The Benedictine commitment to stability has stood the test of time, continuing to serve as a clarion call amid society’s clamor for consumption and relentless activity. Abbot John Klassen OSB of Saint John’s Abbey will explore stability as a keystone of Benedictine spirituality and indispensable aspect of Christian discipleship. A Friday evening lecture is open to the public and introduces broad themes. Register for Friday evening only or register for the entire weekend (overnight or commuting) as Abbot John continues to unpack the riches of Benedict’s lasting insights on stability. Space is limited.
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Taizé Prayer
Fri., Mar. 16, 7-8p
Taizé prayer uses simple chants based on the Scriptures
and periods of silence to create an environment for
encountering the mystery of God. Walk-ins welcome.
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APRIL
Triduum Retreat with Spiritual Direction
S. Carol Rennie OSB
Thu., Apr. 5, 6p to Sat., Apr. 7, 9p
$160
Join the Benedictine community in celebrating these holiest days of the Christian year and in deepening your appreciation of the narratives, symbols, and lived experience of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. The schedule includes worship, group spiritual direction, rest, and free time. You will have the option of one on one spiritual direction and will be home again for Easter Sunday. Register online.
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Suicide: The Most Misunderstood of All Deaths
Mary Ann Carolin
Fri., Apr. 13, 10a-1p
$25
Death is always painful, but its pains are compounded considerably if its cause is suicide. In this morning reflection, spiritual director Mary Ann Carolin explores the difficulties of living with suicide within the context of God’s infinite mercies. She cites Abbot Jerome Kodell OSB who writes of God’s comfort: “I love you. I am with you. Trust me.” Includes presentation, conversation, and prayer together. Guests are welcome to stay for prayer and lunch with the monastic community. Register online.
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RB 72: Good Zeal
S. Jacqueline Leiter OSB
Tue., Apr. 17, 7-9p
$25
Saint Benedict emphasized the spirit of community in one short chapter near the end of The Rule. This session explores the good zeal, “preferring nothing whatsoever to Christ”, as love made visible by mutual respect, support, and patience. Register online.
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Taizé Day of Reflection
Sam Rahberg OblOSB
Fri., Apr. 20, 10a-8p
$40
A time of reflection flowing into the celebration of Taizé prayer. This month’s reflection is anchored by an illumination from the Saint John’s Bible. Register online.
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Taizé Prayer
Fri., Apr. 20, 7-8p
Taizé prayer uses simple chants based on the Scriptures
and periods of silence to create an environment for
encountering the mystery of God. Walk-ins welcome.
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Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us: What Does it Mean to Believe in a Secular Age?
Fr. Michael Byron
Sat., Apr. 21, 9a-12p
$30
In the days after the Resurrection, the Gospels describe the hearts of Jesus’ disciples burning within them. Join scholar and pastor Fr. Michael Byron to explore what it means to believe in a secular age and rekindle the zeal of faith in Christ. Register online.
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MAY
Taizé Prayer
Fri., May 18, 7-8p
Taizé prayer uses simple chants based on the Scriptures
and periods of silence to create an environment for
encountering the mystery of God. Walk-ins welcome.
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The Welcoming Prayer: Attending to What Is
Meredith Schifsky
Sat., May 19, 9a-3:30p
$45
The Welcoming Prayer is a practice of “letting go” in the present moments of daily life. The ordinary routines of daily life present emotional challenges that drain the reservoir of interior silence that we establish through a regular practice of contemplative prayer. The Welcoming Prayer practice helps us respond instead of react when we meet such challenges. Participants will learn and practice “letting go” and letting the Spirit work in the present moment, becoming less conflicted by anxieties, fears, anger and other afflictive emotions. Supports other forms of prayer, including lectio divina, centering prayer, and more. Register online.
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Men’s Contemplative Spirituality Group
Mon., May 28, 7-9p
Freewill Offering
This time of prayer and conversation is for men seeking to integrate contemplative spirituality into their active lives. The evening includes time with Scripture and silent prayer, as well as dialogue about men’s spirituality and personal experience. No experience with contemplative prayer is necessary. Walk-ins welcome.
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JUNE
iLLUMINARE Ministry Renewal Day
Fri., Jun. 8, 9:30a-3p
$30 includes lunch and materials
iLLUMINARE Ministry Renewal Days are ecumenical
days of reflection for full-time and volunteer ministers (lay and ordained) that draw on Scripture and the
wisdom of the Christian tradition to reflect on as they
illuminate the practice of ministry. The days include
theological reflection, lectio divina, time for personal
prayer and reflection, brief presentations, and conversation
with other ministers. Guests new to iLLUMINARE are welcome. Register online.
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Taizé Prayer
Fri., Jun. 15, 7-8p
Taizé prayer uses simple chants based on the Scriptures
and periods of silence to create an environment for
encountering the mystery of God. Walk-ins welcome.
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Great Conversations Series: When Can Doubt Strengthen Faith?
Rev. Paul Witmer
Tue., Jun. 19, 9a-1p
Conversation has the power to inspire and transform. In that spirit the Benedictine Center has commissioned six facilitators to host six unique conversations over the course of 2011-2012. This final morning includes a brief reflection leading into dialogue. Afterward the facilitator will assemble a summary of the insights which emerge from the discussion. The conversation is limited to 12 participants. Contact the Benedictine Center or register online. Lunch is included in the experience. Register online.
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Men’s Contemplative Spirituality Group
Mon., Jun. 25, 7-9p
Freewill Offering
This time of prayer and conversation is for men seeking to integrate contemplative spirituality into their active lives. The evening includes time with Scripture and silent prayer, as well as dialogue about men’s spirituality and personal experience. No experience with contemplative prayer is necessary. Walk-ins welcome.
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JULY
2012A School of Lectio Divina
S. Meg Funk OSB
Fri., Jul. 6, 1p to Wed., Jul. 11, 1p
$700
The Benedictine Center of St. Paul’s Monastery is offering the School of Lectio Divina to adapt the ancient monastic riches of sustained lectio divina to contemporary people. Through an intensive retreat experience set in the rhythm of life at St. Paul’s Monastery, participants receive teaching about lectio, spend time meditating on a sacred text significant for them, have the opportunity for individual spiritual direction, and participate in reflective conversation with other participants. In addition, the Center will provide a variety of on-going support activities and resources after the retreat participants make sustained lectio core to individual prayer and spiritual development. Limit 15. Download materials below or email benedictinecenter@stpaulsmonastery.org.
Click here for a description of the School of Lectio Divina.
Click here for a PDF copy of the application form.
Click here for a Word copy of the application form.
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Taizé Prayer
Fri., Jul. 20, 7-8p
Taizé prayer uses simple chants based on the Scriptures
and periods of silence to create an environment for
encountering the mystery of God. Walk-ins welcome.
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Men’s Contemplative Spirituality Group
Mon., Jul. 23, 7-9p
Freewill Offering
This time of prayer and conversation is for men seeking to integrate contemplative spirituality into their active lives. The evening includes time with Scripture and silent prayer, as well as dialogue about men’s spirituality and personal experience. No experience with contemplative prayer is necessary. Walk-ins welcome.
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Creating and Holding A Space: Insights from Group Spiritual Direction
S. Carol Rennie OSB
Thu., Jul. 26, 9a-1p
$30
S. Carol Rennie OSB is committed to and experienced in drawing others into conversation that helps each person become more attentive to the movements of God. Participants in this session will gain insights into creating and holding a space for meaningful conversation. Ideal for those working with small groups, group spiritual direction, and other more intentional conversations around the spiritual life. Includes lunch. Register online.
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Lectio Pilgrimage to Saint John’s Abbey
S. Carol Rennie OSB
Fri., Jul. 27, 7p to Sun., Jul. 29, 2p
$250
The retreat begins at St. Paul’s Monastery with an introduction to key texts that have been brilliantly illuminated in The Saint John’s Bible. The next day, retreatants travel to Saint John’s Abbey where they will continue their meditation on the texts with the original illuminations. After spending the night at the Abbey Guesthouse, they return to the monastery for Eucharist and brunch. Participation limited by accommodations; shared lodging welcomed, but not necessary. Registration deadline Jun. 30. Register online.
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AUGUST
iLLUMINARE Ministry Renewal Day
Fri., Aug. 10, 9:30a-3p
$30 includes lunch and materials
iLLUMINARE Ministry Renewal Days are ecumenical
days of reflection for full-time and volunteer ministers (lay and ordained) that draw on Scripture and the
wisdom of the Christian tradition to reflect on as they
illuminate the practice of ministry. The days include
theological reflection, lectio divina, time for personal
prayer and reflection, brief presentations, and conversation
with other ministers. Guests new to iLLUMINARE are welcome. Register online.
[ back to top ]
Taizé Day of Reflection
S. Carol Rennie OSB
Fri., Aug. 17, 10a-8p
$40
A time of reflection flowing into the celebration of Taizé prayer. This month’s reflection explores the universal, contemporary, and timeless nature of the psalms. They are treasured songs of the heart. Register online.
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Taizé Prayer
Fri., Aug. 17, 7-8p
Taizé prayer uses simple chants based on the Scriptures
and periods of silence to create an environment for
encountering the mystery of God. Walk-ins welcome.
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Centering Prayer and Lectio Divina Retreat
S. Virginia Matter OSB
Fri., Aug. 17, 7p to Wed., Aug. 22, 1p
$375 includes lodging and meals; $180 thru Sunday only
Experience a time of profound silence and praying the Scriptures as you enter into deeper relationship with God and self. Blends a rhythm of centering prayer, lectio divina, and prayer with the monastic community. $180 through Sunday only. Register online.
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Men’s Contemplative Spirituality Group
Mon., Aug. 27, 7-9p
Freewill Offering
This time of prayer and conversation is for men seeking to integrate contemplative spirituality into their active lives. The evening includes time with Scripture and silent prayer, as well as dialogue about men’s spirituality and personal experience. No experience with contemplative prayer is necessary. Walk-ins welcome.
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For more information or to register
Email the Benedictine Center or call 651.777.7251
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