Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center

MORNING Saints Workshop
2026-10-20 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center, 1525 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville, MD, 21104, United States
We are so sorry, but this event has been canceled. Please check our retreat listings for other workshops offered on this same day.

MORNING Creative Workshop
2026-10-20 09:00 - 11:00 | Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center, 1525 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville, MD, 21104, United States
Images and Words: The Wisdom of Nature
Every season holds a sacred rhythm, both in the natural world and in our own lives. Autumn especially invites us to slow down, listen deeply, and notice what is quietly unfolding within and around us. In this gentle, soul-centered workshop, we will attune ourselves to the wisdom of the present moment through guided meditation, reflective journaling, and a contemplative walk in nature with camera or cell phone in hand. We will practice seeing with new eyes — allowing the landscape to speak, symbols to emerge, and quiet truths to reveal themselves through the lens. This is not about technique, but about presence, so cell phone cameras are fine. A small journal will be provided, though you’re welcome to bring your own. No photography experience is needed — just a willingness to pause, notice, and receive.
Note: The same program will be offered in the Morning Session and Afternoon Session as part of this Weekday Workshop event. When registering, be sure to select/indicate your preferred time slot.
This registration page is for the MORNING Session.
Explore our website for various morning and afternoon workshops offered on this same date.
Guests may choose from several options and attend a morning workshop, have lunch in the Dining Room, and attend an afternoon workshop. Register for each event separately.
Michelle Lisenbee, RN, BSN, HNB-BC, LMT is a holistic registered nurse, a board-certified licensed massage therapist, and mixed media collage artist from Savage, MD. She received her bachelor’s degree in Nursing from George Mason University, her massage training at the Baltimore School of Massage, and her Board Certification from the American Holistic Nurses Association. Her training has included various bodywork and holistic therapies over the years. Michelle is also a self-taught mixed media artist who believes that connection is where healing happens. Exploring ways to cultivate space for connection both in her own life and the lives of others is her calling. She currently works at a small primary care practice in Montgomery County as well as offering workshops and retreats at various local venues. You can find out more at MichelleLisenbee.com.

MORNING Breathwork Workshop
2026-10-20 09:00 - 11:00 | Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center, 1525 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville, MD, 21104, United States
Introspective Breathwork™
In this two-hour workshop, participants will be introduced to the transforming potential of mindfully utilizing the breath for our health and well-being. Some background on the history and science of therapeutic breathwork will be shared, followed by a 45-minute session of conscious connected Introspective Breathwork™, a form of conscious breathing. Please bring a camping or yoga mat (the more cushion the better), one or two pillows and a blanket, along with a water bottle. Participants will be asked to sign a medical release form in order to attend this workshop.
Note: The same program will be offered in the Morning Session and Afternoon Session as part of this Weekday Workshop event. When registering, be sure to select/indicate your preferred time slot.
This registration page is for the MORNING Session.
Explore our website for various morning and afternoon workshops offered on this same date.
Guests may choose from several options and attend a morning workshop, have lunch in the Dining Room, and attend an afternoon workshop. Register for each event separately.
Amy Sorensen Kulesa, OFS, MDiv, 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 the Epiphany Academy of Formative Spirituality, the 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.

Autumn Tree Speak
2026-10-17 09:30 - 16:00
Learning and Reverencing the Life, Language, and Spiritual Lessons of Trees in Autumn
Have you often wished to connect with nature on a deeper level? Do you already have a practice of spending intentional time in nature while gardening, hiking, or being active? Responses to these questions reveal a frequently-expressed desire — shared among so many of us who have experienced the impact of stress and busyness — to pause and immerse ourselves in the rhythms and lessons of the natural world around us. If this resonates with you, join us for a day-long retreat on the life cycle, language, and spiritual teachings of trees.
As we gather in sacred community on the Bon Secours campus, some intentional time will be spent outdoors among the trees in their autumn glory and woven into an interactive dialogue around readings from forester and author Peter Wohlleben’s work, The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate—Discoveries from a Secret World. Poetry and other enriching materials will also be included for creating personal meaning as the day unfolds. A season-specific ritual will be facilitated during the program that incorporates the sacred energies of trees and the transformative cycle of fall. Participants will be invited into times for personal reflection, contemplative prayer and meditation, writing, and other creative exercises that explore and further ground and empower them as they harness the cherished stirrings and connections they form within nature, themselves, and with one another. Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes for walking the grounds and spending time in nature. Lunch is included. Guided by Gordon Creamer.

Gordon 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 contemplative theologian and creative 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.

Healthcare Workers Retreat
2026-10-16 09:30 - 16:00
Caring, Healing, Curing: How Our Patients (and Healthcare Providers) Yearn for All Three
So often, the healthcare system can be burdensome for both patients and their healthcare providers to navigate with grace — so many needs, so many rules, so many patients, so few providers, so little time. This one-day retreat for healthcare providers will focus on caring as the heart of the patient-provider relationship and how such caring can help foster curing (when possible) and healing — physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Emphasis will be on the Christian and Jewish traditions, although other religious traditions will also be included as warranted. Lunch is included. Guided by Dr. Pat Fosarelli.
Patricia Fosarelli, MD, D.Min. is Director of the Masters in Christian Ministries program at St. Mary’s Ecumenical Institute in Baltimore, Maryland where she also teaches Spirituality and Practical Theology. She received a medical degree from the University of Maryland, a master’s degree in theology from St. Mary’s Seminary & University, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Wesley Theological Seminary.

In-Person Centering Prayer Session
2026-10-13 13:00 - 14:00, 2026-09-29 13:00 - 14:00, 2026-09-08 13:00 - 14:00 | Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center, 1525 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville, MD, 21104, United States
Held IN PERSON on the:

2nd and 5th Tuesdays of the month, 1-2pm and
4th Tuesday of the month, 7-8pm.

For these in-person sessions, registration is required in advance, due by the Monday before each in-person session.
(Virtual Zoom sessions will be the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month from 1-2pm. Register for Virtual Sessions by emailing facilitator Amy Sorensen Kulesa at kulesa.neshama@gmail.com.)
Centering Prayer is a form of Christian contemplative prayer, in which one abides in the Presence of God in interior silence. Centering Prayer emphasizes the indwelling Presence of the Holy Trinity within and among us, and our openness, through receptive silence and restful surrender, to God’s action and healing grace. For our one-hour sessions, we will gather to pray together in silence, attentive to the stillness within, and reflect together on readings related to our prayer life. The sessions are relaxed and informal. You are invited to dress comfortably and use a meditation cushion, if you would like.
Facilitation for each Centering Prayer session will be led by an experienced member of the group, both staff and from the community. We follow a consistent format from week to week, with variability each session in the reflective reading that is shared. Coordinated by Amy Sorensen Kulesa.

Quiet Mornings - In Person Session
2026-10-13 09:30 - 10:45, 2026-09-08 09:30 - 10:45
Quiet Mornings sessions are currently being held IN-PERSON on the 2nd Tuesday of each month.
(It is also held virtually on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday and 4th Saturday. Every virtual session is held from 10:30 am to 12:00 noon.)
Please email Joanne at jmcahooneph3@gmail.com for the Zoom sessions invitation for Virtual sessions.
Quiet mornings provide an opportunity for quiet – for reflection, prayer, listening, presence – in common with others. Perhaps you’d like to carve out time, but could use the support of a structure that is also flexible? Most of us could! And there is encouragement and strength in coming together in this way. You are welcome whenever matches your schedule/desire/need.
Each gathering is bracketed by an opening and closing prayer. The quiet hour at its heart is not scripted or guided. Each one enters the quiet and utilizes or follows it as she/he desires to do so. Some opt to journal, read, walk; to engage in meditation; imaginative prayer or centering prayer; art or collage; or physical movement. The commitment to enter the quiet with some regularity as an ongoing practice is the point. By doing so in companionship with others, we support each other’s journey just by willingly being present in God’s presence together, and hoping good for each other. In our closing prayer, we pray a blessing for each other. Please feel welcome! Guided by Joanne Cahoon.
Joanne Cahoon, D.Min. – spiritual director, retreat leader, coach – facilitates the Quiet Mornings.

Commuter Option Sacred Earth Sacred Soul - Celtic Wisdom 3
2026-10-09 16:00 - 2026-10-11 13:00
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.
Celtic 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.
The 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).
The 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.
Celtic 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.
This 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.
Check-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.
John 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.
Cami 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.

Sacred Earth Sacred Soul - Celtic Wisdom 3
2026-10-09 16:00 - 2026-10-11 13:00
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.
Celtic 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.
The 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).
The 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.
Celtic 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.
Check-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.
Please click here if you’d like to register for the Commuter Option for this retreat instead.
John 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.
Cami 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.

Friends Day of Prayer: Tony Tamberino
2026-10-07 09:30 - 15:00
Jesus’ Ministry and Our Call to Justice
Since the time of the Reformation, there have been disagreements about social justice and personal piety. How do we balance the call to discipleship and personal holiness with Jesus’ strong concern for the poor and disenfranchised, especially considering current events?
Our discussion will focus on Jesus’ proclamation of the Reign of God in the Gospel, with particular emphasis on the Judgement of the Nations in Matthew 25, his Mission Statement in Luke 4, and the implications for our living as a disciple of Jesus Christ. Guided by Tony Tamberino.
All are welcome to attend the Friends Day of Prayer retreats, held monthly on the first Wednesday of the month. It is not required to attend every month, so register for one or more sessions as your schedule allows. While the presenters and topics vary, each Friends Day of Prayer typically includes pastries and conversation at 9:30am, a morning presentation at 10am, an optional Mass, a delicious lunch, short periods of free time to enjoy the grounds or shop in the bookstore, and an afternoon presentation.
Tony Tamberino has worked in church ministry for 50 years in the areas of youth and young adult ministry, catechetics, campus ministry, and publishing. He served as Events Coordinator for the 2020 Mid Atlantic Congress and retired from Our Lady of Good Counsel High School as Director of Campus Ministry in 2019. He is a member of St. John the Evangelist Parish in Columbia and lives in Ellicott City with his wife Therese Brown.

Contemplative Writing as Spiritual Practice
2026-10-03 09:30 - 16:00
To Pray Into Beauty
Terry Tempest Williams writes that “Finding beauty in a broken world is creating beauty in the world we find.” Finding beauty in a broken self, a broken heart, and a broken community is also an affirmation that we are the image of God, wonderfully made, beautiful and beloved.
Daily writing can help move us into our heart’s song. We begin with a word or a thought and then let it bloom; as we ponder, pray, and write, we receive healing for our tired souls — we begin to see the beauty within. We notice and we wonder, then write it down.
During this day-long retreat, we will practice contemplative silence together, complemented with reflections that invite us to practice looking and seeing with curiosity. Writing prompts will be offered, and we will write and share as we feel led. Lunch is included. Guided by Debra Donnelly-Barton.
Debra Donnelly-Barton, MA has led pilgrimages, workshops and retreats across the country for several Christian denominations. She has a private practice in spiritual direction, which informs all her ministries, emphasizing deep listening with others for whispers of the Spirit. Debra is a seminary trained spiritual director with 30 years of experience. She has studied at Stillpoint, Sewanee, University of the South, and General Theological Seminary in New York. Her master’s degree in Theology is from the Ecumenical Institute, St. Mary’s Seminary & University. She is a Doctor of Ministry candidate in Creative Writing and Public Theology. Debra writes a daily meditation, which she shares through social media.

Broken and Beautiful: Learning to See Ourselves Through God’s Eyes
2026-10-02 16:00 - 2026-10-04 11:30
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.
Check-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.
Mary 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.

SDI Cohort 7, Session 3 *VIRTUAL Option
2026-09-27 16:00 - 2026-10-02 13:00
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.
Session 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.
PREREQUISITE: Completion of the previous two week-long sessions (September 2025 and April 2026) or permission of the instructor.
A certificate of completion will be awarded upon completion of the entire program, which includes three week-long sessions and the required course work.
This registration form is for the VIRTUAL option. Virtual participants attend all sessions on Zoom in real time. The program begins at 7pm on Sunday. This option does not include meals or lodging.
Program Directors are Kathy Brown and Sr. Bernie Claps.
Sessions are facilitated by Kathy Brown and others.
Kathleen 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.
Sr. 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.

SDI Cohort 7, Session 3 *COMMUTER Option
2026-09-27 16:00 - 2026-10-02 13:00
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.
Session 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.
PREREQUISITE: Completion of the previous two week-long sessions (September 2025 and April 2026) or permission of the instructor.
A certificate of completion will be awarded upon completion of the entire program, which includes three week-long sessions and the required course work.
Plan to arrive in time for Sunday dinner at 6pm. The opening session will be held at 7pm after dinner.
This registration form is for the COMMUTER option. The Commuter Option does not include lodging or breakfast.
Program Directors are Kathy Brown and Sr. Bernie Claps.
Sessions are facilitated by Kathy Brown and others.
Kathleen 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.
Sr. 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.

SDI Cohort 7, Session 3 *Overnight Option
2026-09-27 16:00 - 2026-10-02 13:00
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.
Session 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.
PREREQUISITE: Completion of the previous two week-long sessions (September 2025 and April 2026) or permission of the instructor.
A certificate of completion will be awarded upon completion of the entire program, which includes three week-long sessions and the required course work.
Check-in begins at 4pm, and the opening session will be held at 7pm after dinner.
Program Directors are Kathy Brown and Sr. Bernie Claps.
Sessions are facilitated by Kathy Brown and others.
Kathleen 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.
Sr. 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.

Learning a Way of Living from Mary of Nazareth, Our Sister in Faith
2026-09-23 09:30 - 16:00
It’s Mary’s birthday month! September 8th is the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary on the liturgical calendar — and as a friend who knows our deepest needs, perhaps she’d like to give us a gift for her birthday. This day will invite participants to reflect on and spend time with Mary, who is “truly our sister,” who “truly shared our lot” (Pope Paul VI). She has wisdom for a very practical way to live amidst all the complications and joys and terrors and beauty of everyday human living. Whatever our religious affiliation, we can gain wisdom and inspiration by looking at how Mary handled what it is to be human and to be in relationship with God. She is, after all, our “sister in faith – not one who directs or defines our way, but one who reminds us of the resources we carry with us as we go” (Sr. Patricia Noone). The day will include time of presentation, silence, reflection, and sharing. Lunch is included. Guided by Joanne Cahoon.
Joanne 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.

In-Person, Evening Centering Prayer Session
2026-09-22 19:00 - 20:00, 2026-08-25 19:00 - 20:00
Held IN PERSON on the

2nd and 5th Tuesdays of the month, 1-2pm and
4th Tuesday of the month, 7-8pm.

For these in-person sessions, registration is required and preferred in advance.
(Virtual Zoom sessions will be the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month from 1-2pm. Register for Virtual Sessions by emailing facilitator Amy Sorensen Kulesa at kulesa.neshama@gmail.com.)
Centering Prayer is a form of Christian contemplative prayer, in which one abides in the Presence of God in interior silence. Centering Prayer emphasizes the indwelling Presence of the Holy Trinity within and among us, and our openness, through receptive silence and restful surrender, to God’s action and healing grace. For our one-hour sessions, we will gather to pray together in silence, attentive to the stillness within, and reflect together on readings related to our prayer life. The sessions are relaxed and informal. You are invited to dress comfortably and use a meditation cushion, if you would like.
Facilitation for each Centering Prayer session will be led by an experienced member of the group, both staff and from the community. We follow a consistent format from week to week, with variability each session in the reflective reading that is shared. Coordinated by Amy Sorensen Kulesa.

Virtual Caregiver's Support Group - September
2026-09-19 13:30 - 15:30
Soul Care of Self for Caregivers: A Bi-Monthly Spiritual Support Group on Zoom
Scheduled for varying Saturdays every other calendar month (January, March, May, July, September, November), this two-hour online program is an invitation for caregivers of all types to converge and engage in a safe, sacred community and with various spiritual practices around a topic relevant to the caregiver experience. Each session will include time for a spiritual practice (including body prayer, silence, mantras, etc.), personal reflection, and group sharing.
The underlying focus for each gathering will be on creating meaning for each one’s respective journey while uncovering blessings and cultivating what each participant needs the most at that station in their caregiving. The topics explored will flow from what is expressed by participants during scheduled sessions and feedback. Various resources and materials for further consideration, connection, and support will be provided during and in between sessions. Guided by Gordon Creamer.
Participants are not required to register for all bi-monthly sessions but are encouraged to attend as many as desire and availability allow. When registering for this virtual program, please provide the email address to which we should send the Zoom Meeting link. If you don’t receive the Zoom Meeting information by the day before the session, please contact the Welcome Center at 410-442-3120.
Gordon 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.

Women's Wellness 2026 - Friday Arrival Option
2026-09-18 16:00 - 2026-09-20 13:00
Nurturing the Divine Within: A Journey of Self-Compassion

So 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.
Friday 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.
Massages 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.
This registration form is for the Friday Arrival Option. An Early Arrival Option is also available.
About the Presenter
Paula 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.

Women's Wellness 2026 - Early Arrival Option
2026-09-17 16:00 - 2026-09-20 13:00
Nurturing the Divine Within: A Journey of Self-Compassion

So 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.
The 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.
Massages 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.
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.
This registration form is for the Early Arrival Option. A Friday Arrival Option is also available.
About the Presenter
Paula 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.

Caregiver's Retreat
2026-09-12 09:30 - 16:00
Uncovering the Blessings of the Caregiver Journey – A Day of Retreat & Reflection
This September, spend some intentional time in sacred community being reaffirmed and supported as a caregiver for someone with a long-term illness or condition. This retreat utilizes a lens for understanding and naming the spiritual dimension of the caregiver role and its myriad experiences and is tailored to uplift participants who may or may not provide hands-on care for their loved one but who are involved in their lives. Topics that will be explored are intrinsic to the caregiver journey, especially the necessity of self-care and compassion, burnout, family dynamics, grief, and the often-conflicting emotions that accompany this reality. Throughout the program, participants will be invited to engage in spiritual practices, such as storytelling, prayer/meditation, writing, and other exercises that validate respective experiences and provide therapeutic tools for the ongoing commitment of caregiving. Additional resources will be offered for ongoing caregiver support and nourishment. A journal is a great companion for this program. Wear comfortable clothes/shoes for optional time in nature. Lunch is included. Guided by Gordon Creamer.
We also offer a bi-monthly support group for caregivers on Zoom in January, March, May, July, September, and November.
Gordon 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.

Awareness of God Through Mindfulness and Centering Prayer
2026-09-11 09:30 - 16:00
Mindfulness is paying attention to what is happening in the present moment, nonjudgmentally and with compassion. The present moment is where we meet God. Mindfulness also helps us become more aware of the wisdom of our bodies. Paying attention to our experiences and this wisdom gives us valuable information we can use to live better. Centering prayer is resting in God’s presence in silence, consenting to God’s presence and action within. We experience the fruits of regular practice in our daily lives. These practices allow us to live more connected with God and to more effectively do what God is calling each of us to do, individually and collectively.
Come learn about and experience how practicing mindfulness and centering prayer can deepen your awareness of God’s presence and help you live with more authenticity and greater compassion.
Wear comfortable clothing. You may want to bring a blanket or shawl. If you have one, please bring a yoga mat or something soft to lay on, a cushion or pillow to sit on, and a journal or paper. Please note, however, that it is not necessary to lay down or sit on the floor to participate. Lunch is included. Guided by Dr. Heather Alexander.
Heather Alexander, MD has a passion for encouraging and empowering people to live well by becoming more present to the moments of their lives and living with more compassion. She sees this as her way of offering peace to our world that is so in need of healing. Initially learning mindfulness to reduce stress, she found that practicing mindfulness helped her to be more aware of God’s presence. Dr. Alexander has led workshops on practicing mindfulness for stress reduction and connecting with God, mindfulness for parents, and mindfulness for teens. Dr. Alexander received her undergraduate degree from Haverford College. She received her medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania and completed her pediatric residency at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, DC. She currently practices in Columbia, MD. She has trained with the Center for Mindfulness at the University of Massachusetts School of Medicine. Dr. Alexander has also trained with the Mindful Schools program to teach mindfulness to children.

Friends Day of Prayer: Rev. Mary Ka Kanahan
2026-09-02 09:30 - 15:00
Facing Fear, Finding Faith
In a world filled with uncertainty, fear often takes root in our hearts — fear of failure, loss, change, or the unknown. This retreat invites you to step away from the noise and enter a sacred space where you can honestly face your fears and discover the deep well of faith that God offers.
Through scripture reflection, guided prayer, and soulful practices, we will explore how fear can become a doorway to trust, courage, and hope. Drawing inspiration from biblical stories such as Jesus calming the storm and God’s promise of presence, we will learn to anchor ourselves in God’s love when life feels overwhelming. The day will include a biblical foundation from Old and New Testament for overcoming fear and cultivating faith. There will be small group sharing, journaling, and prayer experiences that help transform fear into faith. This day of prayer will include breath prayer, body prayer, silent reflection, and blessing rituals. Come ready to release what holds you back and embrace the peace that surpasses understanding. God is calling you to live not in fear, but in faith.
All are welcome to attend the Friends Day of Prayer retreats, held monthly on the first Wednesday of the month. It is not required to attend every month, so register for one or more sessions as your schedule allows. While the presenters and topics vary, each Friends Day of Prayer typically includes pastries and conversation at 9:30am, a morning presentation at 10am, an optional Mass, a delicious lunch, short periods of free time to enjoy the grounds or shop in the bookstore, and an afternoon presentation.
Rev. Mary Ka Nippard Kanahan is an ordained elder in The United Methodist Church. Her first career in public parks and recreation in the DC Metropolitan area informs her wholistic understanding of what it means to live an abundant life. She completed her MDiv degree at Wesley Theological Seminary. Mary Ka has been the Director of Women’s Retreats for a national non-profit organization and led numerous spiritual retreats for all people. She has also completed training in mediation and conflict resolution, spiritual direction, and coaching. Mary Ka has served in a variety of ministry settings and is currently lead pastor for The Sykesville Parish at the historic St. Paul’s United Methodist Church on Main Street in nearby Sykesville, MD. She enjoys spending time with her growing family and traveling with friends, attending theater, concerts, and sporting events, and cooking, dancing, and spending time outdoors. Her primary individual spiritual practices involve biblical study, prayer, lectio divina, small group participation, and regular retreats, as well as community organizing for social action. She is a 40+ year resident of Howard County, MD and will soon be spending more time on the Delaware shore in retirement.

A Kaleidoscope of Holiness: Seeking an Authentic Spirituality
2026-08-28 16:00 - 2026-09-03 13:00
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.
During 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.
Check-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.
Sr. 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.

Growing Old for Heaven’s Sake
2026-08-27 09:30 - 16:00
Exploring Spiritualities of Aging
The path of holiness challenges us to be honest, vulnerable, and faithful. No matter the season of life we are in, we search for God — even in our doubts, fears, and disappointments. We desire to integrate our burdens and blessings into a holy prayer that brings us face-to-face with our loving and merciful God. Join us for a day of reflection as we explore the spiritualities of aging. Lunch is included. Guided by Sr. Sara Dwyer.
Sr. 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.

Jesus and the Chakras: Exploring Ancient Wisdom, Living Incarnationally
2026-08-21 16:00 - 2026-08-24 11:30
“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)
“Speak with integrity. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.” ~Don Miguel Ruiz
Have 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.
Altogether, 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.
Please 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.
Check-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.

Gordon 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.
