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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260725T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260801T130000
DTSTAMP:20260707T152958Z
CREATED:20250723T053244Z
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UID:11546-1784995200-1785589200@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:8-Day Ignatian Silent Directed Retreat
DESCRIPTION:New in 2026: The 8-Day Ignatian Silent Directed Retreat will be the only group in-house at the Retreat Center during these dates! \nThe Ignatian Directed Retreat will be privileged time for you to deepen your relationship with God. You will be assigned a trained spiritual director with whom you will meet briefly each day to discern the movements of God in your life as revealed through your prayer. \nThe “direction” of directed retreats is that of discovering and exploring your own journey in faith and life and what path better helps you go in the direction you seek and Jesus invites. Embedded in the tradition of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola\, your retreat is made with a retreat director who supports\, listens\, and has made the journey before. For those who are able\, daily walks with Ignatian teachings will also be available. Aside from these daily conversations and the time you set aside for your own personal prayer\, your retreat time is unstructured. Mass will be available throughout the week. \nThis is a silent retreat. Check-in begins at 4pm\, and the retreat will begin with an orientation session at 5pm. The retreat will end after lunch on Saturday. \nPlease indicate your preference for a spiritual director in the “Special Needs” part of the online registration form. \nJoy Aker\, MA is a spiritual director\, labyrinth facilitator\, and a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. She has a master’s degree in Spirituality from St. Mary’s Seminary & University in Baltimore. She was also trained in Ignatian Spirituality and the Ignatian Exercises at Ignatius Jesuit Center in Guelph\, Ontario. Her focus is on helping others to develop a holistic spirituality which looks to wholeness in body\, mind\, and spirit. Joy also has a great interest in assisting others as they deepen their relationship with God through individual spiritual direction and group retreats.   \nNancy Bickel has served as a hospice nurse and as a nurse in psychiatry. She has a master’s in Pastoral Care and Spirituality\, has studied Ignatian Spirituality\, and is a certified spiritual director. She has been serving as a spiritual director since 2004. Nancy is a member of the Secular Carmelite Order and is a wife\, mother to three daughters\, and grandmother to three teenagers. She enjoys living on a small farm in Maryland. \nFr. Patrick Bergquist\, M.Div. spent nearly 20 years as a missionary along the Yukon River in Northern Alaska\, but now explores a wilderness far less chartered — that of the human spirit and soul. A diocesan priest of Fairbanks\, he holds a Master of Divinity degree from St. Mary’s Seminary & University in Baltimore and Certificates in Spiritual Direction from the Heychia School in Tucson\, Arizona and the Institute of Pastoral Studies at Loyola University in Chicago\, where he specialized in the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. Additionally\, he earned a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and Literary Arts from the University of Alaska Anchorage. He’s a poet\, a spiritual memoirist\, and the author of The Long Dark Winter’s Night: Reflections of a Priest in a Time of Pain and Privilege\, as well as various articles in publications such as Spiritual Life and American Magazine. \nPaul Gallagher\, D.Min. is a longtime faith formation leader in the Archdiocese of Baltimore and is currently the Director of Faith Formation at Sacred Heart Parish in Glyndon. He received his doctorate at Catholic University of America\, focusing on the positive effects Ignatian Spirituality can have on a person’s health and well-being. His blog\, makingallthingsnew.com\, has been viewed by thousands of people all over the world. Through his retreats\, blog posts\, and spiritual direction\, he looks to help people transform their lives by integrating Ignatian practices into their daily routines. Paul used the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius to get his own health back on track and looks forward to helping you with your transformation. \nDee Papania\, D.Min. began her career in professional ministry over 23 years ago and continues to serve at St. Alphonsus Rodriguez Church in Woodstock\, Maryland. Previously filling roles as Pastoral Associate\, Director of Faith Formation\, Director of the Center for Ignatian Spirituality\, and coordinator for the parish’s Retreat Directors Team\, in September 2018 she was appointed Parish Life Director by Archbishop Lori. Her academic accomplishments include a bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies\, master’s degrees in Theology and Church Management\, and a Doctor of Ministry degree. She is a trained Spiritual Director in the tradition of the Spiritual Exercises of Ignatius of Loyola. She has completed formation through the Jesuit/Lay Collaborative (now called the Office of Ignatian Spirituality) and has taught in the Archdiocesan Equip for Ministry Program.  \nThe Reverend Stephen Wade is a friend of Bon Secours of nearly twenty-five years\, as well a retired parish priest in the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia. During Steve’s tenure as Rector of Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill in Alexandria (1995 to 2006)\, a special interest in Ignatian spirituality arose out of the daily responsibilities of parish ministry. One outcome from that early Ignatian interest was to join Martha Campbell at Bon Secours to form a retreat team focused entirely on Ignatian prayer. Connections from that team led Steve to engage with staff at Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation (Bethesda\, MD)\, the Loyola House/Ignatian Jesuit Center (Guelph\, Ontario)\, and Loyola Retreat House (Faulkner\, MD). From that first Bon Secours team\, Marilyn Merikangus introduced Steve to the Ignatian Retreat Team at Holy Trinity Church in Georgetown\, where he continues to serve. On retiring from parish ministry in 2006\, Steve accepted an invitation from Bishop Peter Lee of the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia to help form\, and then to lead\, a program on “Discernment for Leadership — Lay and Ordained” in the Episcopal Diocese. A native of St. Louis\, Steve has served parishes in the Dioceses of New York\, Connecticut\, Massachusetts\, Chicago\, and Virginia. He trained in the work of spiritual direction and retreat leadership at the Weston School of Theology (Cambridge\, MA) and Loyola House/Ignatian Jesuit Center (Guelph\, Ontario). Steve completed a 30-day retreat with Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises at the Eastern Point Retreat House (Gloucester\, MA) in 1999. He looks forward to returning to Bon Secours for the Ignatian Directed Retreat in July 2026. \nCathy Whitaker\, MS\, MSN\, RN\, is a student of Ignatian Spirituality and a trained Spiritual Director with strong listening and collaboration skills\, relevant experience\, and a deep sense of compassion. She is committed to accompanying individuals as they develop and deepen their relationship with the Lord. Cathy earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Gwynedd Mercy University and her Master of Science in Nursing from Villanova University\, in addition to a Masters of Applied Behavioral Science from Johns Hopkins University. Her interests include traveling\, gardening\, cooking\, and spending time with her children and grandchildren.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/8-day-ignatian-directed-retreat-2026/
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight,Silent
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260809T113000
DTSTAMP:20260511T171210Z
CREATED:20250925T114354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260511T171210Z
UID:11883-1786118400-1786275000@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Hidden Treasure Retreat for Couples
DESCRIPTION:Christian Marriage Is Hard…and Beautiful \nRobert and Lori Fontana\, relationship educators\, return to Bon Secours to help couples discover the amazing gift of married love (even if that love has been frayed a bit). Any couple that wants to succeed in love is welcome! \nThe retreat begins with The Marriage Jackpot Date Night on Friday evening\, where you will meet Murphy the Marriage Salesman\, do the “how well do you know your partner” quiz\, sing old love songs\, meet other couples\, and enjoy great snacks and spirits. \nThe retreat continues into Saturday and Sunday\, building on the insights and fun from Friday night. You will reflect on the beauty and challenges of Christian marriage; strengthen skills in communication\, active listening\, and self-awareness; explore together emotional needs for intimacy\, affection\, fun\, and sexual fulfillment; and have an opportunity to bring healing and forgiveness to relationship hurts. This is a participatory retreat with opportunities during each session for spouses/partners to separately complete relationship inventories related to the topic\, share their answers with each other\, dialogue\, and enjoy intentional time reflecting on their relationship…all while having fun together! Guided by Robert & Lori Fontana. \nCheck-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief welcome session at 5:30pm\, followed by dinner at 6pm. The retreat begins after dinner at 7pm on Friday and concludes before lunch on Sunday. Mass will be available Sunday morning for those who wish to attend. \nThe price of $570 is per couple and includes retreat\, lodging\, meals. \nFor single rooms or commuter options\, please email Doris.Gallagher@BonSecoursRCC.org. \nOn registration form\, place BOTH NAMES in name field.\n(e.g.\, First Name: John & Jane; Last Name: Doe/Smith).\n  \n \nLori and Robert Fontana have been married since 1978. They have six children and seven grandchildren. Together they direct Catholic Life Ministries NW (CLM)\, a non-profit educational and counseling outreach. \nLori was primarily a home mom. She has a certificate in Spirituality and Theology and taught elementary school for 12 years. Robert has a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and has a clinical counseling practice in Seattle. Robert also has a Doctorate in Ministry and has worked professionally at the parish and diocesan levels in the Catholic Church\, and now for CLM. Robert has taught throughout Washington State and in Catholic parishes around the country\, as well as internationally in Swaziland\, South Africa\, Tanzania\, Haiti\, and Belize\, Central America. \n 
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/hidden-treasure-retreat-for-couples/
CATEGORIES:Featured Speakers,Just Added,Overnight
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260809T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260815T113000
DTSTAMP:20260724T174008Z
CREATED:20250811T134547Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260724T174008Z
UID:11571-1786291200-1786793400@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Silent Directed Retreat - August 2026
DESCRIPTION:An individually directed retreat focuses on the way God is active in the individual’s life\, and each retreat follows a uniquely personal path. Retreatants meet with a spiritual director once a day to reflect on God’s presence and movement in their life as revealed in prayer\, the events and relationships in their life\, and the response to God that is being made. The spiritual director may make suggestions (prayer forms\, Scripture\, reading materials\, etc.) to support and deepen the retreatant’s awareness of and response to God. Aside from the introductory session and daily spiritual direction meetings\, retreatants are on their own to experience a week of quiet\, peace\, and personal reflection in the Retreat Center and around our beautiful grounds. Mass will be available throughout the week. \nThis is a silent retreat. Check-in begins at 4pm\, and the retreat will begin with an orientation session at 5pm. Silence will begin after dinner. The retreat ends before lunch on Saturday. \nPlease indicate your preference for a spiritual director in the “Special Needs” part of the online registration form. \nSr. Ann Belmonte is a Dominican Sister of Hope and former elementary school teacher who has ministered for the past 33 years as a Pastoral Associate in West Virginia and Virginia. She now uses her gifts as a spiritual director and a leader of Days of Reflection and study. She has a bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education from Mount St. Mary’s College\, a master’s degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from Hunter College\, and a master’s degree in Pastoral Studies from Loyola University. Her ongoing formation includes workshops in spirituality\, sacred scripture\, hospice care\, caregiving\, and issues of justice and peace. \nFr. Patrick Bergquist\, M.Div. spent nearly 20 years as a missionary along the Yukon River in Northern Alaska. Now he explores a wilderness far less chartered — that of the human spirit and soul. A diocesan priest of Fairbanks\, he holds a Master of Divinity degree from St. Mary’s Seminary & University in Baltimore and Certificates in Spiritual Direction from the Heychia School in Tucson\, Arizona and the Institute of Pastoral Studies at Loyola University in Chicago\, where he specialized in the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. Additionally\, he earned a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and Literary Arts from the University of Alaska Anchorage. He’s a poet\, a spiritual memoirist\, and the author of The Long Dark Winter’s Night: Reflections of a Priest in a Time of Pain and Privilege\, as well as various articles in publications such as Spiritual Life and American Magazine. \nJoanne Cahoon\, D.Min. holds a bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies\, master’s degree in Religion/Pastoral Ministry\, graduate certificates in spiritual direction and in spirituality studies\, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago\, where her specialization was spirituality and practical theology. Along the way\, Joanne has taught in elementary\, secondary\, undergraduate\, and graduate school settings. She has also served as youth minister\, high school campus minister\, consultant\, writer\, national trainer\, diocesan staff member\, staff member of a graduate school\, spiritual director\, facilitator of retreats\, and professional coach. Joanne has welcomed and worked with many individuals and groups\, serving them as they listen for God’s invitations in their personal and corporate lives. She finds it a privilege to be involved in spiritual and human formation — bringing deep listening\, presence\, creativity\, and a commitment to her own ongoing formation to her work. \nAmy Sorensen Kulesa\, M.Div.\, MSW is a spiritual director\, retreat leader and certified Introspective Breathwork™ facilitator. She earned a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and a Master of Social Work from Rutgers University. She is a graduate of Epiphany Academy of Formative Spirituality\, Bon Secours Spiritual Direction Institute\, and One Breath Institute. Immersed in both the Bon Secours and Franciscan charisms\, Amy enjoys facilitating retreats in which participants have the opportunity to discern the narrative of their own lives within the larger story of God’s abundant healing\, grace\, and mercy. \nSr. Mary Elizabeth Looby\, GNSH began her training as a retreat and spiritual director at Bon Secours Spiritual Center in 1983. She later followed up with a master’s degree in Pastoral Care and Counseling\, with an emphasis in Spiritual Care from Neuman University in Aston\, PA. She currently lives in Philadelphia and is involved in spiritual direction and retreat ministry. She has directed retreats in Rhode Island\, Connecticut\, New Jersey\, New York\, Texas and Pennsylvania. Her background includes education\, educational administration\, and congregation work in the areas of formation ministry\, associates\, spiritual animation\, and congregational leadership. 
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/silent-directed-retreat-august-2026/
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight,Silent
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260821T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260824T113000
DTSTAMP:20250925T121715Z
CREATED:20250925T121715Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T121715Z
UID:11902-1787328000-1787571000@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Jesus and the Chakras: Exploring Ancient Wisdom\, Living Incarnationally
DESCRIPTION: “The good person out of the good treasure of the heart produces good\, and the evil person out of evil treasure produces evil\, for it is out of the abundance of the heart that the mouth speaks.” ~Luke 6:45 (NRSVUE Translation) \n“Speak with integrity. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.” ~Don Miguel Ruiz \nHave you been curious about or desiring to live Jesus’ teachings in a more embodied\, incarnational way? Are you interested in exploring the deeper spiritual connections between Christianity and other faith traditions? If the answer within you is ‘yes\,’ you are invited and encouraged to join us for a 3-night weekend retreat in which we will consider with deep intention the person and Gospel message of Jesus in light of what has been understood through time and human experience as ancient wisdom. Through prayer and meditation\, writing prompts\, group dialogue\, and other contemplative and creative exercises\, participants will spend time discerning how the words and example of Jesus converge with contemporary embodiment of the throat chakra. \nAltogether\, this retreat will highlight the transformative teachings of Jesus as participants are guided to ground them within the reality of striving to live in a more incarnational way\, including how we experience and express our truth\, speak up and out from this truth\, engage in various other forms of communication\, and connect with the spiritual dimension of life. A focus on deepening awareness of our intuitive abilities will be explored in addition to how to enact our propensity to create — from the level of conceiving ideas and blueprints to manifesting them into a meaningful reality. There will be ample time for personal and collective reflection in between presentations on Jesus’ embodied wisdom\, engaging with the chakra system\, and some Eastern spiritual practices. A yoga session attuned to the throat and other chakras will be offered as an optional weekend opportunity. An outdoor gathering with music is scheduled for Saturday evening\, and participants are welcome to bring their own drums and instruments to play. \nPlease bring along an open mind and heart for this journey! A journal\, yoga mat\, and comfortable clothes and shoes will make great companions for this weekend. Structured and optional time in nature will be offered throughout the retreat. It is not a requirement to have participated in last year’s retreat on Jesus and the Heart Chakra to register or participate in this retreat. Guided by Gordon Creamer. \nCheck-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief welcome session at 5:30pm\, followed by dinner at 6pm. The retreat begins after dinner at 7pm on Friday and concludes before lunch on Monday. \n\n \nGordon Creamer\, MA\, creator of the Mission Bridge\, currently serves as Program Director at Well for the Journey\, a spiritual wellness center in Lutherville\, MD. As a creative and contemplative builder\, he has held leadership roles in healthcare programming and operations since 2001 at various assisted living\, skilled nursing\, and hospice communities. He earned a Master of Arts in Spiritual & Pastoral Care from Loyola University and a Master of Arts in Theology from the Ecumenical Institute of St. Mary’s Seminary & University. Currently\, he is a candidate for the Doctor of Ministry Program at the Ecumenical Institute. Gordon has facilitated numerous retreats and workshops that focus on creating opportunities for participants to explore and enhance their spirituality and well-being through various media and formats. He also participates as a peer group leader in the Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation’s Transforming Community Program. His passions include uplifting the journey of adults\, individuals with memory impairment\, and members of the LGBTQ+ community\, as well as fostering support groups and programs for caregivers and those who are grieving losses. Trained as a spiritual director/companion\, end-of-life doula\, and Reiki practitioner\, Gordon welcomes all in discovering the spiritual life as a means of healing\, expanding\, and flourishing. For more information\, visit TheMissionBridge.com.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/jesus-and-the-chakras-exploring-ancient-wisdom-living-incarnationally-2/
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260828T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260903T130000
DTSTAMP:20250925T200811Z
CREATED:20250925T200811Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T200811Z
UID:11906-1787932800-1788440400@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:A Kaleidoscope of Holiness: Seeking an Authentic Spirituality
DESCRIPTION:We look within and see our stories\, events\, feelings\, and relationships tumbling and turning —our unique seasons unfolding in the fullness of time\, with changes and challenges. Our stories reveal the beauty of light and darkness\, loves and losses\, laughter and tears. As we journey through all of this\, we desire a life-giving spirituality that is both sustaining and contemplative\, as well as attitudes\, beliefs\, and practices that will help us explore our true selves more consciously and deeply. \nDuring this six-night retreat\, we will have generous amounts of time to reflect with guides who have narrated their own experiences\, including Parker Palmer\, Richard Rohr\, Joan Chittister\, Pope Francis\, Walter Brueggemann\, Joyce Rupp\, Maya Angelou\, and other spiritual writers. Join us to ponder\, probe\, practice\, and pray in the quiet of your heart and with your God. Guided by Sr. Sara Dwyer. \nCheck-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief welcome session at 5:30pm\, followed by dinner at 6pm. The retreat begins after dinner at 7pm on Friday and concludes after lunch on Thursday. Mass will be available Sunday-Thursday for those who wish to attend. \nSr. Sara Dwyer\, ASC has been a member of the Sisters Adorers of the Blood of Christ\, an International Congregation\, for 55 years. Sr. Sara has served in various adult faith formation positions during those years. She was a member of her congregational Leadership Team and served as their Justice\, Peace\, and Integrity of Creation contact for over 10 years. Sara served eight years as the Director of the Washington Retreat House in Washington\, DC. In January 2025\, she accepted a ministry role within her community\, where she continues to offer retreats and other faith formation programs. Sara holds a master’s degree in Theology from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio and a master’s in Education from Boston College. Sara enjoys interacting with people\, reading\, retreat ministry\, and taking nature walks. 
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/a-kaleidoscope-of-holiness-seeking-an-authentic-spirituality/
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260917T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260920T130000
DTSTAMP:20260424T172312Z
CREATED:20250918T165850Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260424T172312Z
UID:11643-1789660800-1789909200@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Women's Wellness 2026 - Early Arrival Option
DESCRIPTION:Nurturing the Divine Within: A Journey of Self-Compassion \n\nSo often we search outside ourselves for peace\, love\, and belonging. We hope that by doing enough\, taking enough meals to help others\, praying enough we will feel that connection with the Divine.  Yet in Luke 17:20-21\, Jesus reminds us that “the kingdom of God is within you.” During our Women’s Wellness Weekend\, you will be invited to turn inward and recognize the sacred presence already alive in your own heart. Through reflection\, prayer\, and gentle practices\, we’ll explore what it means to embrace the Divine within\, to walk in friendship with our true self\, and to live more fully from that place of inner holiness. \nThe early arrival option begins with check-in as early as 4pm on Thursday so that you can have an extra day to unwind. There will be an optional prayer gathering after dinner on Thursday. On Friday during the day\, you’ll have free time to walk around the Center’s beautiful grounds\, shop in the bookstore\, stop by one of our guest vendors that afternoon\, or just relax. \nMassages will be available from 9am-6pm on Friday and 1pm-6pm on Saturday to schedule on your own for an additional fee. Three massage therapists will be available\, but it is important to schedule early as slots fill quickly. Fee is $90 for a 60-minute session and payments will be made directly to the therapist at the time of your appointment. Michelle Lisenbee will be coordinating appointments for all three therapists\, so please email her at michelle.lisenbee@gmail.com with your request to schedule. \nAll Women’s Wellness guests (Early Arrivals and Friday Arrivals) will come together for dinner\, followed by a social evening of games\, activities\, and laughter in the company of an amazing group of women. Saturday begins with a feature presentation\, and the afternoon includes your choice of two workshops to attend throughout the afternoon. Saturday evening will be a time of socializing\, crafts\, and a movie. On Sunday\, the presenter will close the weekend with a special presentation. After a weekend of faith\, fun\, and friendship\, guests will depart after lunch. \nThis registration form is for the Early Arrival Option. A Friday Arrival Option is also available. \nAbout the Presenter \nPaula Jilanis\, MA has facilitated retreats and workshops since 1995 and has been involved with Bon Secours since 2009. She is a graduate of the College of Notre Dame of Maryland\, now Notre Dame of Maryland University\, with a Bachelor of Arts in both psychology and religious studies and a Master’s Degree from Tai Sophia Institute\, which is now part of the Notre Dame of Maryland University. As a massage therapist for 30 years and as a spiritual and life coach\, Paula works holistically to bring people more deeply into their spiritual journey. She is an author creating the book A Guide to Creating Your Wellness Center.    \n 
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/womens-wellness-2026-early-arrival-option/
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260918T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260920T130000
DTSTAMP:20260424T172206Z
CREATED:20250918T165911Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260424T172206Z
UID:11646-1789747200-1789909200@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Women's Wellness 2026 - Friday Arrival Option
DESCRIPTION:Nurturing the Divine Within: A Journey of Self-Compassion \n\nSo often we search outside ourselves for peace\, love\, and belonging. We hope that by doing enough\, taking enough meals to help others\, praying enough we will feel that connection with the Divine.  Yet in Luke 17:20-21\, Jesus reminds us that “the kingdom of God is within you.” During our Women’s Wellness Weekend\, you will be invited to turn inward and recognize the sacred presence already alive in your own heart. Through reflection\, prayer\, and gentle practices\, we’ll explore what it means to embrace the Divine within\, to walk in friendship with our true self\, and to live more fully from that place of inner holiness. \nFriday arrivals may check in at 4pm on Friday. All Women’s Wellness guests (Early Arrivals and Friday Arrivals) will come together for dinner\, followed by a social evening of games\, activities\, and laughter in the company of an amazing group of women. Saturday begins with a feature presentation\, and the afternoon includes your choice of two workshops to attend throughout the afternoon. Saturday evening will be a time of socializing\, crafts\, and a movie. On Sunday\, the presenter will close the weekend with a special presentation. After a weekend of faith\, fun\, and friendship\, guests will depart after lunch. \nMassages will be available from 9am-6pm on Friday and 1pm-6pm on Saturday to schedule on your own for an additional fee. Three massage therapists will be available\, but it is important to schedule early as slots fill quickly. Fee is $90 for a 60-minute session and payments will be made directly to the therapist at the time of your appointment. Michelle Lisenbee will be coordinating appointments for all three therapists\, so please email her at michelle.lisenbee@gmail.com with your request to schedule. \nThis registration form is for the Friday Arrival Option. An Early Arrival Option is also available. \nAbout the Presenter \nPaula Jilanis\, MA has facilitated retreats and workshops since 1995 and has been involved with Bon Secours since 2009. She is a graduate of the College of Notre Dame of Maryland\, now Notre Dame of Maryland University\, with a Bachelor of Arts in both psychology and religious studies and a Master’s Degree from Tai Sophia Institute\, which is now part of the Notre Dame of Maryland University. As a massage therapist for 30 years and as a spiritual and life coach\, Paula works holistically to bring people more deeply into their spiritual journey. She is an author creating the book A Guide to Creating Your Wellness Center.   
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/womens-wellness-2026-friday-arrival-option/
CATEGORIES:Featured Speakers,Just Added,Overnight
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260927T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261002T130000
DTSTAMP:20260313T155713Z
CREATED:20260313T155311Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T155713Z
UID:12368-1790524800-1790946000@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:SDI Cohort 7\, Session 3 *Overnight Option
DESCRIPTION:The Bon Secours Spiritual Direction Institute offers a nationally-recognized training program in the art and skill of spiritual direction. Participants gather three sessions\, each time for an intensive week. \nSession 3 of Cohort 7 of the Spiritual Direction Institute will focus on dealing with particular populations\, such as victims of abuse and LGBTQ+ persons. A session on setting up a spiritual direction practice will be included. Each student will present two case studies of spiritual direction from their practicum in the previous months. \nPREREQUISITE: Completion of the previous two week-long sessions (September 2025 and April 2026) or permission of the instructor. \nA certificate of completion will be awarded upon completion of the entire program\, which includes three week-long sessions and the required course work. \nCheck-in begins at 4pm\, and the opening session will be held at 7pm after dinner. \nProgram Directors are Kathy Brown and Sr. Bernie Claps.\nSessions are facilitated by Kathy Brown and others. \nKathleen Hope Brown\, D.Min. is Director of Pastoral Care Services at the Saint Luke Institute in Silver Spring\, Maryland. Her doctorate in Adult Spiritual Formation is from Catholic University. She lectures on spiritual direction in programs throughout the country. \nSr. Bernadette Claps is a Sister of Bon Secours and provides spiritual direction and spiritual companionship at the Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center. She holds graduate certificates in Spiritual Direction\, Spirituality\, and Aging. She has done graduate studies in theology and received a Master of Social Work from New York University.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/spiritual-direction-institute-session-3-overnight-option-2/
CATEGORIES:Featured Speakers,Just Added,Overnight
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261002T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261004T113000
DTSTAMP:20260313T173421Z
CREATED:20250321T150011Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T173421Z
UID:11233-1790956800-1791113400@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Broken and Beautiful: Learning to See Ourselves Through God’s Eyes
DESCRIPTION:So often we imagine that in order to be loved\, we must become better\, different\, perfect. But what if the things we think need to be “fixed” to make us more lovable — flaws and weaknesses\, mistakes\, and sins — are the very things that make us beautiful in our own way? In this retreat\, we will use Psalm 139 as a touchstone and will learn to see our brokenness as a beauty mark instead of a scar. We will use prayer\, stories\, humor\, journaling\, music\, and more to begin to remove the filters that color our vision and see ourselves as God does — wonderfully made\, imperfections and all. This retreat will include silent breakfasts and optional yoga classes. Guided by Mary DeTurris Poust. \nCheck-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief welcome session at 5:30pm\, followed by dinner at 6pm. The retreat begins after dinner at 7pm on Friday and concludes before lunch on Sunday. Mass will be celebrated in the Chapel on Sunday morning for those who would like to attend. \nMary DeTurris Poust is a writer\, retreat leader\, yoga teacher\, and spiritual director. She is the author of six books on Catholic spirituality and six books of seasonal reflections. Mary writes about the spiritual journey in her award-winning monthly column\, Life Lines\, and hosts a podcast by the same name. She is also a frequent contributor to Give Us This Day. She and her husband\, Dennis\, have three adult children and live in upstate New York. Visit her website at NotStrictlySpiritual.com. 
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/broken-and-beautiful/
CATEGORIES:Featured Speakers,Just Added,Overnight
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261009T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261011T130000
DTSTAMP:20251205T162458Z
CREATED:20251009T151714Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251205T162458Z
UID:11943-1791561600-1791723600@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Sacred Earth Sacred Soul - Celtic Wisdom 3
DESCRIPTION:In 2016 John Philip Newell began the Earth & Soul initiative\, including a series of retreats (now called Celtic Wisdom) to help reawaken awareness of the sacred in all things through the recovery of Celtic wisdom for today and to help translate this awareness into compassionate action in our lives and world. \nCeltic Wisdom 3 is the third of a three-part series of annual retreats led by the Celtic teacher John Philip Newell and his colleague Cami Twilling in which we explore the sacredness of the imagination\, the sacredness of compassion\, and the sacredness of reshaping the world. \nThe teachings of this retreat are based on John Philip’s award-winning book Sacred Earth Sacred Soul: Celtic Wisdom for Reawakening to What Our Souls Know and Healing the World (especially Chapters 5\, 8\, and 9 drawing on the wisdom of Alexander John Scott\, George MacLeod\, and Kenneth White).  \nThe essential text for the three-year Celtic Wisdom program is John Philip Newell’s Sacred Earth Sacred Soul. The shared prayer book for this program is Sounds of the Eternal: A Celtic Psalter. \nCeltic Wisdom 3 can be taken as a stand-alone retreat or in conjunction with Celtic Wisdom 1 and Celtic Wisdom 2 which can be attended in any order and at any of our retreat centers across the country or online. \nCheck-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief session at 5:30pm\, followed by dinner at 6pm. The retreat begins after dinner at 7pm on Friday and concludes after lunch on Sunday. Mass will be celebrated in the Chapel on Sunday morning for those who would like to attend. \nPlease click here if you’d like to register for the Commuter Option for this retreat instead.  \nJohn Philip Newell is a Celtic teacher and author of spirituality who calls the modern world to reawaken to the sacredness of Earth and every human being. Canadian by birth and also a citizen of Scotland\, he resides with his family in Edinburgh and works on both sides of the Atlantic. In 2016 he began the Earth & Soul initiative and teaches regularly in the United States and Canada as well as leading international pilgrimage weeks on Iona in the Western Isles of Scotland. His PhD is from the University of Edinburgh and he has authored over fifteen books\, including his award-winning publication\, Sacred Earth Sacred Soul\, which was the 2022 Gold Winner of the Nautilus Book Award for Spirituality and Religious Thought of the West. His new book\, also with HarperOne (and published in the UK by Wild Goose)\, is The Great Search (August 2024)\, in which he looks at the great spiritual yearnings of humanity today in the context of the decline of religion as we have known it. Newell speaks of himself as ‘a wandering teacher\,’ following the ancient path of many lone teachers before him in the Celtic world\, seeking the wellbeing of the world. He has been described as having ‘the heart of a Celtic bard and the mind of a Celtic scholar\,’ combining in his teachings the poetic and the intellectual\, the head as well as the heart\, and spiritual awareness as well as political and ecological concern.  \nCami Twilling\, based in Colorado\, is the Director of Earth & Soul\, a Celtic initiative of study\, spiritual practice and compassionate action inspired by the teachings of John Philip Newell. As well as heading up the overall work of Earth & Soul\, she facilitates the spiritual practice component of the Earth & Soul Annual Retreats. Previously she was the head of Contemplative Spirituality and Youth Ministry at Trinity UMC in Denver. She has studied meditation in the Tibetan Buddhist Tradition of Shambhala and received Spiritual Direction certification from the Hesychia School of Spiritual Direction in Tucson\, Arizona. In addition to leading mountain and urban retreats\, she has led international pilgrimage groups to Iona in the Western Isles of Scotland and work teams to Guatemala to build houses in communities that have suffered from political strife and economic hardship. Cami is passionate about the relationship between spirituality and action and believes that spiritual vision and practice can play a vital role in helping to heal and transform our lives both individually and together.  
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/sacred-earth-sacred-soul-celtic-wisdom-3/
CATEGORIES:Featured Speakers,Just Added,Overnight
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261009T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261011T130000
DTSTAMP:20251009T174308Z
CREATED:20251009T151955Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251009T174308Z
UID:11946-1791561600-1791723600@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Commuter Option Sacred Earth Sacred Soul - Celtic Wisdom 3
DESCRIPTION:In 2016 John Philip Newell began the Earth & Soul initiative\, including a series of retreats (now called Celtic Wisdom) to help reawaken awareness of the sacred in all things through the recovery of Celtic wisdom for today and to help translate this awareness into compassionate action in our lives and world. \nCeltic Wisdom 3 is the third of a three-part series of annual retreats led by the Celtic teacher John Philip Newell and his colleague Cami Twilling in which we explore the sacredness of the imagination\, the sacredness of compassion\, and the sacredness of reshaping the world. \nThe teachings of this retreat are based on John Philip’s award-winning book Sacred Earth Sacred Soul: Celtic Wisdom for Reawakening to What Our Souls Know and Healing the World (especially Chapters 5\, 8\, and 9 drawing on the wisdom of Alexander John Scott\, George MacLeod\, and Kenneth White).  \nThe essential text for the three-year Celtic Wisdom program is John Philip Newell’s Sacred Earth Sacred Soul. The shared prayer book for this program is Sounds of the Eternal: A Celtic Psalter. \nCeltic Wisdom 3 can be taken as a stand-alone retreat or in conjunction with Celtic Wisdom 1 and Celtic Wisdom 2 which can be attended in any order and at any of our retreat centers across the country or online. \nThis registration form is for the COMMUTER OPTION. The Commuter Option does not include lodging and does not include breakfast. Please click here to REGISTER FOR THE OVERNIGHT OPTION INSTEAD. \nCheck-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief session at 5:30pm\, followed by dinner at 6pm. The retreat begins after dinner at 7pm on Friday and concludes after lunch on Sunday. Mass will be celebrated in the Chapel on Sunday morning for those who would like to attend.  \nJohn Philip Newell is a Celtic teacher and author of spirituality who calls the modern world to reawaken to the sacredness of Earth and every human being. Canadian by birth and also a citizen of Scotland\, he resides with his family in Edinburgh and works on both sides of the Atlantic. In 2016 he began the Earth & Soul initiative and teaches regularly in the United States and Canada as well as leading international pilgrimage weeks on Iona in the Western Isles of Scotland. His PhD is from the University of Edinburgh and he has authored over fifteen books\, including his award-winning publication\, Sacred Earth Sacred Soul\, which was the 2022 Gold Winner of the Nautilus Book Award for Spirituality and Religious Thought of the West. His new book\, also with HarperOne (and published in the UK by Wild Goose)\, is The Great Search (August 2024)\, in which he looks at the great spiritual yearnings of humanity today in the context of the decline of religion as we have known it. Newell speaks of himself as ‘a wandering teacher\,’ following the ancient path of many lone teachers before him in the Celtic world\, seeking the wellbeing of the world. He has been described as having ‘the heart of a Celtic bard and the mind of a Celtic scholar\,’ combining in his teachings the poetic and the intellectual\, the head as well as the heart\, and spiritual awareness as well as political and ecological concern.  \nCami Twilling\, based in Colorado\, is the Director of Earth & Soul\, a Celtic initiative of study\, spiritual practice and compassionate action inspired by the teachings of John Philip Newell. As well as heading up the overall work of Earth & Soul\, she facilitates the spiritual practice component of the Earth & Soul Annual Retreats. Previously she was the head of Contemplative Spirituality and Youth Ministry at Trinity UMC in Denver. She has studied meditation in the Tibetan Buddhist Tradition of Shambhala and received Spiritual Direction certification from the Hesychia School of Spiritual Direction in Tucson\, Arizona. In addition to leading mountain and urban retreats\, she has led international pilgrimage groups to Iona in the Western Isles of Scotland and work teams to Guatemala to build houses in communities that have suffered from political strife and economic hardship. Cami is passionate about the relationship between spirituality and action and believes that spiritual vision and practice can play a vital role in helping to heal and transform our lives both individually and together.  
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/commuter-option-sacred-earth-sacred-soul-celtic-wisdom-3/
CATEGORIES:Featured Speakers,Just Added,Overnight
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261029T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261101T130000
DTSTAMP:20260316T121412Z
CREATED:20260316T121412Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T121412Z
UID:12410-1793289600-1793538000@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:3-Night Ignatian Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Are you looking to go deeper in your relationship with God? Join us as we experience the spirituality of St. Ignatius of Loyola. Our retreat will explore some of the key aspects of the spirituality which flowed out of the life and Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola\, who was declared the Patron Saint of retreats by Pope Pius XI in 1922. This retreat will introduce participants to Ignatian methods of prayer\, such as the Daily Examen. Guests will also learn more about the richness of silence and imaginative prayer using Scripture. We’ll explore how we might more effectively discern God’s will for us using St. Ignatius’ time-tested methods and how we can more easily find God in all things. In addition to the presentations\, there will be periods of silent prayer and individual spiritual direction\, as time allows. If the weather permits\, the retreat group may also do a group prayer walking exercise. Guided by Paul Gallagher. \nCheck-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief session at 5:30pm\, followed by dinner at 6pm. The retreat begins after dinner at 7pm on Thursday and concludes after lunch on Sunday. Mass will be celebrated in the Chapel on Sunday morning for those who would like to attend. \nPaul Gallagher\, DMin is a longtime faith formation leader in the Archdiocese of Baltimore and is currently the Director of Faith Formation at Sacred Heart Parish in Glyndon. He received his doctorate at Catholic University of America\, focusing on the positive effects Ignatian Spirituality can have on a person’s health and well-being. His blog\, MakingAllThingsNew.com\, has been viewed by thousands of people all over the world. Through his retreats\, blog posts\, and spiritual direction\, he looks to help people transform their lives by integrating Ignatian practices into their daily routines. Paul used the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius to get his own health back on track and looks forward to helping you with your transformation.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/3-night-ignatian-retreat/
LOCATION:Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center\, 1525 Marriottsville Road\, Marriottsville\, MD\, 21104\, United States
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Nature,Overnight
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261106T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261108T113000
DTSTAMP:20260313T132459Z
CREATED:20260313T132459Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T132459Z
UID:12341-1793980800-1794137400@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Sacred Waiting
DESCRIPTION:A Retreat for Spiritual Formation and Preparing Room for God \nIn the quiet days before Advent begins\, join us for a contemplative retreat where you’ll learn\, practice\, and experience spiritual formation in community. Sacred Waiting isn’t passive — it’s an active engagement with God through ancient Christian disciplines that serve as means of grace. Over this weekend\, you’ll be introduced to the foundational practices of spiritual formation: what it is\, why it matters\, and how contemplative disciplines shape us into deeper relationship with God. Through teaching and guided practice\, you’ll explore lectio divina (sacred reading)\, moving meditation (gentle mindful movement)\, guided Christian meditation\, silence\, prayer\, and worship — each designed to help you release what clutters your inner life and cultivate attentiveness to the Holy Spirit. Whether you’re new to spiritual practices or seeking to deepen your contemplative life\, this retreat offers practical tools\, restful space\, and the gift of practicing together. You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of spiritual formation and concrete practices you can carry into your daily rhythm. No prior meditation or movement experience required. Come ready to learn\, rest\, and discover the transformative power of holy expectation. Guided by Sherrell Moore-Tucker. \nCheck-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief welcome session at 5:30pm\, followed by dinner at 6pm. The retreat begins after dinner at 7pm on Friday and concludes before lunch on Sunday. Mass will be celebrated in the Chapel on Sunday morning for those who would like to attend. \nSherrell Moore-Tucker is an aspiring chaplain and founder of Sacred Rhythms Ministry — a spiritual formation ministry offering sacred spaces\, both online and in person\, where believers can cultivate sacred rhythms as life-giving patterns that help us stay aligned with God’s presence. Sherrell has over a decade of experience in Christian wellness ministry. She is trained in Christian and Biblical meditation\, natural and holistic health\, and trauma-informed movement practices\, and she holds certifications in yoga and mindful movement. Sherrell serves in her local church while reaching a broader community through YouTube\, Insight Timer\, and annual retreats that integrate spiritual disciplines with embodied prayer. Her work bridges contemplative practice and chaplaincy preparation\, equipping people to care for their body\, soul\, and spirit through accessible\, grace-centered disciplines. Learn more at: www.SherrellMooreTucker.com.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/sacred-waiting/
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261106T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261108T113000
DTSTAMP:20260316T123530Z
CREATED:20260316T123530Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T123530Z
UID:12420-1793980800-1794137400@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:SoulCollage®
DESCRIPTION:Everything Is Holy Now \nStep into a sacred space where music\, imagery\, and contemplation converge. Inspired by Peter Mayer’s song Holy Now\, this retreat invites you to explore the profound truth that holiness permeates every corner of life. \nThrough the intuitive process of SoulCollage®\, we’ll listen deeply to the song’s themes — wonder\, gratitude\, presence\, and interconnectedness — and allow them to awaken images within us. Using music divina (a contemplative listening practice)\, we’ll reflect on the lyrics and discover the cards that emerge from our own inner landscapes. These cards become mirrors of the soul\, revealing insights about where we encounter the sacred in the ordinary. \nWhat You’ll Experience \n\nGuided listening to Holy Now as a spiritual practice.\nSoulCollage® card-making sessions\, inspired by themes of awe\, reverence\, and transformation.\nGroup reflection and journaling to integrate insights.\n\nWho Should Attend \nAnyone seeking a creative\, contemplative way to deepen their spiritual journey — no art experience required. Just bring openness\, curiosity\, and a willingness to see the world as “holy now.” \nCheck-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief welcome session at 5:30pm\, followed by dinner at 6pm. The retreat begins after dinner at 7pm on Friday and concludes before lunch on Sunday. Mass will be celebrated in the Chapel on Sunday morning for those who would like to attend. Guided by Mickey Reed. \nMickey Reed\, OT is an Associate with the Sisters of Bon Secours. She is enjoying her retirement from a 20-year career as a professor of Occupational Therapy with the CT State College and University System. Mickey combines her background in counseling and spiritual direction with her love for the arts and her commitment to be “Bon Secours — Good Help to Those in Need” within a variety of settings. In any given week you may find her visiting children with special needs with her therapy dogs\, listening to families of children in critical care while sharing a craft project at the Ronald McDonald House\, or providing musical comfort for hospital and hospice patients. Mickey is a Certified SoulCollage® Facilitator and was trained as a Boundless Compassion Facilitator by Sr. Joyce Rupp. \n 
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/soulcollage-2/
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261113T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261115T130000
DTSTAMP:20260316T190139Z
CREATED:20260316T125326Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T190139Z
UID:12427-1794585600-1794747600@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Seeking God With All Your Heart: Exploring Different Forms of Prayer
DESCRIPTION:Seeking God With All Your Heart: Exploring Different Forms of Prayer \nFor I know well the plans I have in mind for you—says the LORD—plans for your welfare and not for woe\, so as to give you a future of hope. When you call me\, and come and pray to me\, I will listen to you. When you look for me\, you will find me. Yes\, when you seek me with all your heart\, I will let you find me. (Jeremiah 29:11-14) \nCome to explore and expand diverse ways to pray to God interiorly and with others. \n\nWhat does it mean to seek God\, and to seek God with all your heart?\nDo you have the desire to enliven your relationship with God?\nAre you being invited to a new or old or different ways to pray?\n\nPlease feel warmly welcome to join us as we ponder these questions and experience various prayer forms\, including Visio Divina (praying with a painting or image)\, Ignatian Contemplation (placing yourself in a Gospel passage)\, Centering Prayer (listening in silence)\, Video Divina (praying with a short film)\, and Art Journaling (praying with color). \nCheck-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief welcome session at 5:30pm\, followed by dinner at 6pm. The retreat begins after dinner at 7pm on Friday and concludes after lunch on Sunday. Mass will be celebrated in the Chapel on Sunday morning for those who would like to attend. Guided by Nancy Santamaria. \nNancy Santamaria ministers as a spiritual director on the clinical team at Saint John Vianney Center\, a residential behavioral health center for religious men and women\, and at Daylesford Abbey. She is a Norbertine Associate and Formation Director for the Associates. She holds a master’s degree in both Holistic Spirituality and Art\, as well as certificates in bereavement\, clinical pastoral education\, and spiritual direction.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/seeking-god-with-all-your-heart-exploring-different-forms-of-prayer/
LOCATION:Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center\, 1525 Marriottsville Road\, Marriottsville\, MD\, 21104\, United States
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20261204T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20261206T130000
DTSTAMP:20260316T133156Z
CREATED:20260316T133156Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260316T133156Z
UID:12448-1796400000-1796562000@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Testify to the Light: A Challenge for Christians
DESCRIPTION:At this time in your life\, what challenges come to you because you believe in Jesus’ witness? \nPresent-day realities — personally\, nationally\, and globally — invite us to “testify to the Light” in the midst of darkness as Jesus did. We are often faced with the unknown and unclear\, which can stir doubt\, confusion\, fear\, or complacency. Advent is a season that invites us to embrace darkness as a way of allowing LIGHT to illuminate the truth and shine through the darkness. We believe: Jesus “came as a witness\, to testify about the Light\, so that all might believe through him.” (John 1:7) \nWe will be in stillness and reflectiveness as we contemplate the Mystery of the Incarnation and the hope and gratitude it offers us on our faith journey. May this retreat be an experience that enhances our faith journey\, so we can more fully see\, understand\, and walk through Advent on the path of Light. \nCheck-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief welcome session at 5:30pm\, followed by dinner at 6pm. The retreat begins after dinner at 7pm on Friday and concludes after lunch on Sunday. Mass will be celebrated in the Chapel on Sunday morning for those who would like to attend. Guided by Sr. Sara Dwyer. \nNote: This retreat has a natural flow from the Friends Day of Prayer on December 2 but adds more depth. \nSr. Sara Dwyer\, ASC has been a member of the Sisters Adorers of the Blood of Christ\, an International Congregation\, for 55 years. Sr. Sara has served in various adult faith formation positions during those years. She was a member of her congregational leadership team and served as their Justice\, Peace\, and Integrity of Creation contact for over 10 years. Sara served eight years as the Director of the Washington Retreat House in Washington\, DC. In January 2025\, she accepted a ministry role within her community\, where she continues to offer retreats and other faith formation programs. Sara holds a master’s degree in Theology from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio and a master’s in Education from Boston College. Sara enjoys interacting with people\, reading\, retreat ministry\, and taking nature walks. 
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/testify-to-the-light-a-challenge-for-christians/
LOCATION:Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center\, 1525 Marriottsville Road\, Marriottsville\, MD\, 21104\, United States
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20270425T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20270430T130000
DTSTAMP:20260701T151432Z
CREATED:20260630T184040Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260701T151432Z
UID:12715-1808668800-1809090000@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Bon Secours Spiritual Direction Institute Cohort 8 - Session 1 OVERNIGHT Option
DESCRIPTION:This page is for the OVERNIGHT option for Cohort 8\n(*recommended* for the most complete experience).\nPlease click the following links if you prefer the\nCOMMUTER option or the VIRTUAL option.\n  \nLodging room check-in for overnight guests will begin at 4pm\, and the program will start after dinner.  \nIntensive Training Program for Those Interested in Spiritual Direction \nCourse Description and Goals:  \nThis will be the 8th cohort of students within our Bon Secours Spiritual Direction Institute. The first week-long session is an introduction to and overview of spiritual direction in the Christian tradition. It is intended to enhance the student’s understanding of the spiritual life\, with attention given to developing the basic skills necessary for this ministry. Classes will involve presentations\, discussions\, and interactive experiences. \nIt is strongly recommended that you be in spiritual direction yourself while taking this program. It will be another part of your learning. Bon Secours can provide references if you need them\, including people who do spiritual direction online. \nCourse Learning Objectives:  \nAt the end of the course\, a student will be able to: \n-Have a basic understanding of the spiritual life — its breadth\, depth\, and language — in order to understand the context of spiritual direction ministry. \n-Examine and understand the core principles of effective spiritual direction\, noting the implications for both the director and the directee. \n-Develop and practice the basic interpersonal skills necessary for the exercise of this ministry\, such as active listening and appropriate response.          \nRequired Texts: \nHenri Nouwen. Spiritual Direction: Wisdom for the Long Walk of Faith.  San Francisco:  Harper Collins\, 2006. \nMargaret Guenther\, Holy Listening: The Art of Spiritual Direction (Cowley Publications\, 1992) \nRecommended Reading: \nTeresa of Avila\, The Interior Castle (any edition) \nRequired Paper:  A 6 to 8 page review of and reflection on the student’s choice of one of the following books will be due after this first intensive week. The student will have a few months to complete it. \n\nCynthia Bourgeault\, Mystical Hope: Trusting in the Mercy of God (Cowley Publications\, 2001)  ISBN: 1-56101-193-2; ISBN13: 978-1-56101-193-3\nMartin Laird\, Into the Silent Land: A Guide to the Christian Practice of Contemplation (Oxford\, 2006)  ISBN-13: 978-0-19-530760-3\nNancy L. Bieber\, Decision Making & Spiritual Discernment: The Sacred Art of Finding Your Way (Skylight Paths\, 2012). ISBN: 978-1-59473-289-9\n\nDates for Week 2 and 3: The second week-long course in the program is scheduled for September 26-October 1\, 2027\, and the final week-long session is scheduled for April 30-May 5\, 2028\, which will complete the course of study. Registration for these two sessions will be available soon. A certificate of completion will be awarded upon completion of the entire program\, which includes these three week-long sessions and the required course work. \nAfter You Register: \n\nComplete an intake form\, to be provided by a program coordinator upon registration.\nProvide consent for Bon Secours to initiate a background check.\n\nThe intake form and background check will have a deadline prior to the Session 1 start date. A program coordinator will be in touch regarding this deadline after you’ve registered. The information on your intake form will help the directors know a little about you and will ensure that your experience aligns with the requirements of our program\, providing the best possible training for your future ministry. \nQuestions: If you have questions\, please contact Sr. Bernie Claps at Bernadette.Claps@CBSParis.org. \nGuided By: Kathy Brown and Sr. Bernie Claps\, CBS. \nKathleen Hope Brown\, D.Min. teaches spiritual direction and other courses in spirituality at the Virginia Theological Union. Her doctorate in Adult Spiritual Formation is from Catholic University. \nSister Bernadette Claps\, a Sister of Bon Secours\, provides spiritual direction and spiritual companionship at the Retreat and Conference Center at Bon Secours. She holds graduate certificates in Spiritual Direction\, Spirituality and Aging. She has done graduate studies in theology and received a Master of Social Work from New York University.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/sdi-8-1-overnight/
LOCATION:Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center\, 1525 Marriottsville Road\, Marriottsville\, MD\, 21104\, United States
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20270731T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20270807T130000
DTSTAMP:20260722T123646Z
CREATED:20260722T123559Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260722T123646Z
UID:12769-1817049600-1817643600@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:8-Day Ignatian Silent Directed Retreat
DESCRIPTION:The 8-Day Ignatian Silent Directed Retreat will be the only group in-house at the Retreat Center during these dates! \nThe Ignatian Directed Retreat will be privileged time for you to deepen your relationship with God. You will be assigned a trained spiritual director with whom you will meet briefly each day to discern the movements of God in your life as revealed through your prayer. \nThe “direction” of directed retreats is that of discovering and exploring your own journey in faith and life and what path better helps you go in the direction you seek and Jesus invites. Embedded in the tradition of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola\, your retreat is made with a retreat director who supports\, listens\, and has made the journey before. For those who are able\, daily walks with Ignatian teachings will also be available. Aside from these daily conversations and the time you set aside for your own personal prayer\, your retreat time is unstructured. Mass will be available throughout the week. \nThis is a silent retreat. Check-in begins at 4pm\, and the retreat will begin with an orientation session at 5pm. The retreat will end after lunch on Saturday. \nPlease check back for a list of directors and their bios. \n 
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/2027-8-day-ignatian-silent-directed-retreat/
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight,Silent
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