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UID:11836-1781280000-1781436600@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Calling Upon Sophia – A Weekend Silent Retreat
DESCRIPTION:“Wisdom calls aloud in the streets. She raises her voice in the public squares: She calls out at the street corners. She delivers her message at the city gates.” Proverbs 1:20-21 \nThere is a voice that rises above the noise of these uncertain and complex times. Hagia Sophia\, Holy Wisdom\, is crying out in the very heart of it all. \nIn Christian theology\, Sophia—the Greek word for wisdom — is often personified as a feminine divine figure representing God’s wisdom and creative power. She is sometimes associated with the Holy Spirit\, and in some traditions\, to Mary\, mother of Jesus. Sophia embodies the active\, loving presence of God in both creation and redemption\, offering insights into divine mysteries and inspiring righteous action. Her voice\, ancient and true\, still echoes through the streets and alleyways of our lives\, inviting us — almost desperately it seems—to turn\, to tune in\, and to listen. \nThis silent retreat weekend is an invitation to answer that call. Together\, we will step away from the noise of the world and gently enter into spacious silence — making room to encounter Sophia as she moves among us. In the soft unfolding of the weekend\, we will welcome Sophia as guide and companion — listening for her messages of love and hope in the whisper of stillness\, in the stirrings of the heart\, in the breath between words. We will gather for a time of welcome and introduction of the theme on Friday evening and then enter into silence for the weekend. Short reflections will be offered on Saturday morning and evening\, with an optional time for tea and music on Saturday afternoon. On Sunday morning\, we will gather to share out of the silence and gently gather the graces of the weekend. Come and rest. Come and listen. Come and be guided by the voice that sings at the city gates and the edges of your soul. Guided by Lorie Conway. \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. \nLorie Conway\, MA\, Spiritual Companion has a passion for deep listening and accompanying others on their spiritual journeys through spiritual companionship\, contemplative small groups\, and spiritual retreats. Lorie received her certificate in spiritual direction from the Kairos School of Spiritual Formation and holds a master’s degree in Religion from Lancaster Theological Seminary and a master’s degree in Behavioral Management & Human Resources from Johns Hopkins University. Lorie is on the programming staff at Well for the Journey and is the director of the Transforming Community: Leading Contemplative Spiritual Groups & Retreats program at the Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation. Lorie’s spirituality is rooted in the Christ tradition and is welcoming of the many paths and unique journeys enfolded within Divine Mystery.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/calling-upon-sophia-a-weekend-silent-retreat/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight,Silent
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260616T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260619T160000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20250924T190247Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260422T172330Z
UID:11839-1781625600-1781884800@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:African American Mystics: Bowman\, Murray\, Thurman
DESCRIPTION:“Hope Is a Song in a Weary Throat” \n…Hope is a song in a weary throat.\nAnd a world where I can sing it.\nGive me a song of faith\nGive me a song of hope\nAnd a people to believe in it.\nGive me a song of kindliness\nAnd a country where I can live it.\nGive me a song of hope and love\nAnd a brown girl’s heart to hear it.\n~An excerpt from Pauli Murray’s poem\, Dark Testament Verse 8 \nThe concept of mysticism invites exploration\, particularly within the framework of African American spirituality — a tradition shaped by both the profound challenges of racial injustice and the deep assurance of knowing that you are a cherished child of God. Within this context\, African American mysticism reflects the inner experience of Divine hope and Divine love that is filtered through the struggle to survive in a system that devalues the body\, mind\, and soul. As Pauli Murray eloquently states\, “Hope is a song in a weary throat.” \nThis three-night retreat focuses on the mystical experiences of three African American faith leaders: Thea Bowman (Roman Catholic Nun\, Mystic\, and Teacher)\, Howard Thurman (Preacher\, Theologian\, Mystic\, and Prophet)\, and Pauli Murray (first female African American Episcopal Priest\, Mystic\, Poet\, Civil Rights Lawyer). Participants will engage with the perspectives and experiences of these individuals through their autobiographies\, poetry\, music\, prayer\, and meditation. Participants will learn how African American spirituality and mysticism intersects with Black cultural distinctives. Activities will include music\, poetry\, journaling\, prayer\, solitude\, and opportunities for creative expression. Guided by Rev. Joan Crawford. \nCheck-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief welcome session at 5:30pm\, followed by dinner at 6pm. The first presentation will begin after dinner at 7pm on Tuesday. The retreat concludes at 4pm on Friday. \nThe Reverend Joan Crawford is a Spiritual Director\, Deacon and Benedictine Oblate. Joan has an ecumenical background and inclusive vision. She received a Master of Theology from Northern Baptist Theological Seminary in Lombard Illinois; and a Certificate in Spiritual Guidance from the Siena Dominican Center in Racine Wisconsin. Her ministry now includes workshops to promote interracial healing and dialogue. Joan brings spiritual awareness\, insightful humor\, and tender seriousness to her presentations. Her candor\, sensitivity\, and deep listening will help instill the building blocks for better understanding between the African American and Anglo-American communities. \nTestimonials: \n“Joan is an educator and minister who serves from a heart of hope while sitting comfortably with the complex set of issues facing our world. She values and recognizes the importance of engaging across differences.” \n“… deeply emotional material. Hard to walk away without being touched.” \n“It was great. Thank you…for opening your heart and life to us. I never realized the depth of fear\,\npain\, death and danger in the history of African Americans.” \n“Joan was an excellent presenter and engaged people…you could feel the energy in the room open up.” \n“…participants felt a personal connection and warmth while hearing challenging things…” \n“I especially liked the integration of music and the arts!” \n“Marvelous\, meaty\, intelligent and fearless.” \n  \n*NOTE: The dates and cost for this retreat have changed from what was printed in the Fall 2025 issue of Bridges.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/african-american-mystics-bowman-murray-thurman/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Featured Speakers,Just Added,Overnight
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/11/2022/01/Rev-Joan-Crawford-Profile-e1642774105467.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260616T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260619T160000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20260219T154041Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260422T172504Z
UID:12271-1781625600-1781884800@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:COMMUTER OPTION African American Mystics: Bowman\, Murray\, Thurman
DESCRIPTION:The registration below is for the COMMUTER OPTION. If you would like to register instead for the OVERNIGHT OPTION\, click here. \n“Hope Is a Song in a Weary Throat” \n…Hope is a song in a weary throat.\nAnd a world where I can sing it.\nGive me a song of faith\nGive me a song of hope\nAnd a people to believe in it.\nGive me a song of kindliness\nAnd a country where I can live it.\nGive me a song of hope and love\nAnd a brown girl’s heart to hear it.\n~An excerpt from Pauli Murray’s poem\, Dark Testament Verse 8 \nThe concept of mysticism invites exploration\, particularly within the framework of African American spirituality — a tradition shaped by both the profound challenges of racial injustice and the deep assurance of knowing that you are a cherished child of God. Within this context\, African American mysticism reflects the inner experience of Divine hope and Divine love that is filtered through the struggle to survive in a system that devalues the body\, mind\, and soul. As Pauli Murray eloquently states\, “Hope is a song in a weary throat.” \nThis three-night retreat focuses on the mystical experiences of three African American faith leaders: Thea Bowman (Roman Catholic Nun\, Mystic\, and Teacher)\, Howard Thurman (Preacher\, Theologian\, Mystic\, and Prophet)\, and Pauli Murray (first female African American Episcopal Priest\, Mystic\, Poet\, Civil Rights Lawyer). Participants will engage with the perspectives and experiences of these individuals through their autobiographies\, poetry\, music\, prayer\, and meditation. Participants will learn how African American spirituality and mysticism intersects with Black cultural distinctives. Activities will include music\, poetry\, journaling\, prayer\, solitude\, and opportunities for creative expression. Guided by Rev. Joan Crawford. \nThe COMMUTER OPTION does not include lodging or breakfast. \nCommuters may arrive any time after 4pm on Tuesday. There will be a brief welcome session at 5:30pm\, followed by dinner at 6pm. The first presentation will begin after dinner at 7pm on Tuesday. There will be morning\, afternoon\, and evening presentations on Wednesday and Thursday. The retreat concludes at 4pm after the morning and afternoon sessions on Friday. \nThe Reverend Joan Crawford is a Spiritual Director\, Deacon and Benedictine Oblate. Joan has an ecumenical background and inclusive vision. She received a Master of Theology from Northern Baptist Theological Seminary in Lombard Illinois; and a Certificate in Spiritual Guidance from the Siena Dominican Center in Racine Wisconsin. Her ministry now includes workshops to promote interracial healing and dialogue. Joan brings spiritual awareness\, insightful humor\, and tender seriousness to her presentations. Her candor\, sensitivity\, and deep listening will help instill the building blocks for better understanding between the African American and Anglo-American communities. \nTestimonials: \n“Joan is an educator and minister who serves from a heart of hope while sitting comfortably with the complex set of issues facing our world. She values and recognizes the importance of engaging across differences.” \n“… deeply emotional material. Hard to walk away without being touched.” \n“It was great. Thank you…for opening your heart and life to us. I never realized the depth of fear\,\npain\, death and danger in the history of African Americans.” \n“Joan was an excellent presenter and engaged people…you could feel the energy in the room\nopen up.” \n“…participants felt a personal connection and warmth while hearing challenging things…” \n“I especially liked the integration of music and the arts!” \n“Marvelous\, meaty\, intelligent and fearless.” \nThe form below is for the COMMUTER OPTION (no lodging\, no breakfast) for this retreat.\nTo register instead for the OVERNIGHT OPTION\, click here. \n  \n*NOTE: The dates and cost for this retreat have changed from what was printed in the Fall 2025 issue of Bridges.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/commuter-option-african-american-mystics-bowman-murray-thurman/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Featured Speakers,Just Added
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260623T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260623T200000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20251205T191604Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251205T191604Z
UID:12113-1782241200-1782244800@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:In-Person\, Evening Centering Prayer Session
DESCRIPTION:Held IN PERSON on the \n\n2nd and 5th Tuesdays of the month\, 1-2pm and\n4th Tuesday of the month\, 7-8pm.\n\nFor these in-person sessions\, registration is required and preferred in advance. \n(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.) \nCentering 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. \nFacilitation 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.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/in-person-evening-centering-prayer-session-30/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Silent
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260626T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260626T160000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20250924T190853Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T190853Z
UID:11842-1782466200-1782489600@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Interspirit/Interfaith Mind\, Body & Breath Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Nervous System Reset for Grounding & Courage \n“What is mine to do?” “How can I care for myself in this moment?” These are questions you have no doubt have asked yourself more than once in recent times. \nWhether you are dealing with a personal loss\, change\, transition\, or other issue\, or if you are struggling with something that links personal with the global as we navigate living in a world in crisis\, you are invited to remember that you are not alone…AND that you have tools — in community and solidarity — at your disposal. \nJoin us for day retreat around resetting the nervous system through embodiment and other contemplative practices. ALL are welcome; no prior experience needed. This time together in individual and collective practice and sharing will help fortify us for the weeks and months ahead and to recall that the other side of grief is love…and that we can turn that love into action. Lunch is included. Guided by Anna Franklin. \nAnna Franklin is a graduate of the 2024 Transforming Communities Program (TCP) with Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation\, where she first met beautiful Bon Secours during the TCP residencies. She works with Shalem on a variety of initiatives and projects including systems functionality\, curricula inventory\, and developing Shalem’s social media presence. Anna has a decade of experience in politics\, government\, and organizing and another decade+ in teaching yoga\, meditation\, and leading retreats. Anna is currently a seminary student at One Spirit’s Interfaith/Interspiritual Seminary Program and is also a 2019 graduate of the Living School with Fr. Richard Rohr. She graduated from American University with a focus on Peace & Conflict Studies in International Relations and served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Bulgaria. A proud West Virginian & the middle child of five siblings with even bigger personalities\, Anna splits her time between the US and Portugal\, where her partner is from. Anna appreciates finding God in all things\, whether a cup of coffee\, birds\, squirrels and trees\, or a conversation with a friend. She enjoys walking with folks on their path and is excited to contribute to the many gifts of the Spirit at Bon Secours. \nWant to extend your retreat experience? With at least 48 hours’ notice (and subject to availability)\, Bon Secours offers “private retreats” with lodging and meals. Register for two back-to-back day retreats and add an overnight stay as a private retreatant for the night between. Call the Welcome Center at 410-442-3120 to inquire about booking a private retreat.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/interspirit-interfaith-mind-body-breath-retreat/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Daytime,Just Added
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260627T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260627T160000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20250924T191453Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260203T124913Z
UID:11847-1782552600-1782576000@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Falling Upward\, Living Whole\, Discovering True Self Through Vulnerability and Faith
DESCRIPTION:Integrating Faith\, Courage\, and Wholeness in the Second Half of Life \nJoin Arianne Rice — Episcopal priest\, facilitator\, and leadership coach — for a reflective and interactive workshop inspired by Richard Rohr’s Falling Upward: Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life and enriched by the work of Dr. Brené Brown. Whether you’re familiar with Rohr and Brown or simply curious\, this day offers a powerful exploration of spiritual growth\, authenticity\, and vulnerability. Brown\, who wrote the book’s introduction\, calls Rohr’s teaching a “homecoming” to our true selves. Her insights into embracing imperfection and living wholeheartedly beautifully complement Rohr’s spiritual frameworks. Through teaching\, personal reflection\, and small group conversation\, you’ll engage practices and exercises to take with you. Together\, we’ll explore how to move beyond the false self\, deepen our spiritual lives\, and embrace the gifts and challenges of life’s second half. Lunch is included. Guided by Arianne Rice. \nArianne Rice\, MDiv\, CDWF\, ACC is a leadership coach\, facilitator\, and Episcopal priest who has led retreats and workshops for over 20 years. Her work integrates spiritual wisdom with practical tools for emotional intelligence\, courageous communication\, and authentic leadership. Arianne is an ICF-certified coach\, a certified facilitator of The Daring Way™ (Brené Brown’s research-based methodology)\, and an emotional intelligence practitioner. She creates reflective spaces where participants can explore vulnerability\, deepen their faith\, and reconnect with their truest selves. Arianne also hosts the podcast Feeling Beings Who Think\, which explores the inner journey of leadership and personal growth. \nWant to extend your retreat experience? With at least 48 hours’ notice (and subject to availability)\, Bon Secours offers “private retreats” with lodging and meals. Register for two back-to-back day retreats and add an overnight stay as a private retreatant for the night between. Call the Welcome Center at 410-442-3120 to inquire about booking a private retreat.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/falling-upward-living-whole-discovering-true-self-through-vulnerability-and-faith/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Daytime,Just Added
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260630T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260630T140000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20251205T180846Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251205T181416Z
UID:12078-1782824400-1782828000@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:In-Person Centering Prayer Session
DESCRIPTION:Held IN PERSON on the: \n\n2nd and 5th Tuesdays of the month\, 1-2pm and\n4th Tuesday of the month\, 7-8pm.\n\nFor these in-person sessions\, registration is required in advance\, due by the Monday before each in-person session.  \n(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.) \nCentering 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. \nFacilitation 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.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/in-person-centering-prayer-session-28/
LOCATION:Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center\, 1525 Marriottsville Road\, Marriottsville\, MD\, 21104\, United States
CATEGORIES:Daytime,Just Added
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260705T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260705T170000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20260407T151532Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260407T151532Z
UID:12550-1783267200-1783270800@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Celebrate America Concert
DESCRIPTION:Witness Tree Reunion Presents: An American Folk Journey   \nTravel through 250 years of American folk song with father and daughter folk duo Witness Tree Reunion. The program will highlight American folk\, folk-rock\, and bluegrass favorites from the American Revolution to the 21st century\, featuring songs by Paul Simon\, Woodie Guthrie\, James Taylor\, Joan Baez\, and more. \nMusicians Matt and Maddy Miskie\, a father and daughter folk duo hailing from Central Pennsylvania and Central Maryland\, bring a spirit of nostalgia\, connection\, and fun to their live performances through thoughtfully crafted programs. “Witness Trees” of many kinds exist all around the world. Some are living witnesses to a specific historical event. Some are denizens\, designated as special meeting places\, and still others may be specific to family. Thus\, Witness Tree Reunion performances take audiences on an evocative musical journey to special places in time. Join us as we commemorate America’s 250th anniversary with a musical celebration! \nThis is a free event\, but a free-will offering will be taken. Donations collected the day of the event will be shared between the performers and the ministries of the Sisters of Bon Secours. (Donations made via the registration form below will NOT be included as part of the free-will offering.) The concert will last about an hour. \nRegistration is required for this free event. Space is limited! \nMatt Miskie has been on the road sharing stories and songs for the better part of 45 years. His entertaining songs and stories have delighted audiences of all ages. He is a life-long advocate for the environment\, preservation of wild places\, social justice\, and arts in education. \n As a crossover singer\, Maddy Miskie-Jaeger draws from multiple vocal disciplines and musical genres to present heartfelt concert and recital programs centered around meaningful topics and themes. Her passion for continuous learning and teaching about the human instrument (mind\, body\, voice and spirit) led her to found Windsong Voice and Yoga\, her private studio based in Central Maryland where she offers 1:1 instruction in voice and yoga. It is also her great pleasure to serve the community by offering public yoga and myofascial release classes and workshops at The Yoga Center of Columbia. She is a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) and Continuing Education Provider through Yoga Alliance (YACEP). She is a proud member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing\, Yoga Alliance\, and the Business Women’s Network of Howard County\, and a proud alumna of The Eastman School of Music and the University of Maryland.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/celebrate-america-concert-2/
LOCATION:Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center\, 1525 Marriottsville Road\, Marriottsville\, MD\, 21104\, United States
CATEGORIES:Concerts,Just Added
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260706T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260710T130000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20250924T194730Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T165518Z
UID:3837-1783353600-1783688400@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Living the Legacy of Bon Secours: Service as a Spiritual Practice (formerly called Bon Secours Charism Retreat)
DESCRIPTION:Where wisdom meets service\, and service becomes prayer. \nThere are seasons in life when something changes — retirement\, a shift in career\, a move\, an empty nest\, or simply the growing sense that you are being invited into a new chapter. Such moments can bring freedom\, but also deeper questions: Who am I now? Where is my purpose? How can my gifts still matter? \nRooted in the Bon Secours charism of healing\, compassion\, and liberation\, this retreat offers space to pause\, reflect\, and discern. Inspired by the spirit of the Sisters of Bon Secours\, participants will explore how service becomes a way of living with presence and intention. Together we will consider how healing begins with attentive presence\, how compassion deepens through listening\, and how liberation emerges when we release former roles and discover new meaning. We’ll embrace life’s transitions as a “rewirement” — a sacred reorientation of heart and mind toward purpose\, service\, and grace. \nThroughout the retreat\, participants will experience: \n\nGuided prayer and spiritual reflection\nSmall-group conversation and shared stories\nQuiet personal discernment time\nOpportunities to learn about and engage in hands-on service work within Bon Secours ministries\n\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 Monday and concludes after lunch on Friday. Details have not yet been finalized\, but the retreat may include trips off campus to service sites. Transportation will be provided. Registrants will be required to complete additional paperwork and waivers to participate.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/bon-secours-charism-retreat/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260712T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260718T113000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20250811T135111Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260404T225343Z
UID:11574-1783872000-1784374200@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Silent Directed Retreat - July 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. \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. Jo-Ann Flora\, a native Philadelphian\, is a Sister of Notre Dame de Namur and resides in the Washington\, DC area. She serves as a spiritual director\, meeting individuals in person and virtually\, and a retreat director. Originally trained by the Jesuits as a director of the Spiritual Exercises\, she has engaged in retreat ministry since 1980 in many spirituality centers\, parishes\, and schools. She is also a certified Music Imagery (MI) facilitator and Focusing facilitator. She served as Coordinator of Notre Dame de Namur Associates in the mid-Atlantic region for fifteen years. She holds a master’s degree from Georgetown University and a doctoral degree from the University of California. \nSr. Jean Marie Holup\, SS.C.M.\, a Sister of Saints Cyril and Methodius\, has previously ministered as the Director of St. Cyril Spiritual Center in Danville\, PA  for the past 20 years. Before that time Jean was on staff at Bon Secours Spiritual Center in Marriottsville\, MD from 1996 -1999. She is the proud recipient of a master’s degree in Christian Spirituality in 1995 from Creighton University\, Omaha\, NE\, and did her practicum at the Jesuit Center for Spiritual Growth in Wernersville\, PA. Jean has the privilege of being a spiritual director involved in retreat work on the East Coast\, in several Mid-Western States\, and in Nova Scotia\, Canada. She has been giving retreats at Mercy Center in CT\, and Gonzaga Eastern Point Jesuit retreat house in Gloucester\, MA. An experienced spiritual director\, she has witnessed the profound insights discovered through the working of the Holy Spirit during each person’s spiritual journey. Jean is currently the Director of Formation for her Congregation. She enjoys singing\, dream work\, creating sacred life patterns with collage\, and taking walks in nature.  \nFr. Michael Schleupner’s schedule of directees is full. Please choose one of our other excellent directors. Fr. Michael Schleupner\, JCL was ordained in 1972 and has been a priest of the Archdiocese of Baltimore for fifty-three years. For the past eight years\, he has devoted himself to a ministry of spirituality. This includes spiritual direction\, some retreats or retreat days\, sacramental assistance at a parish\, and a weekly electronic spirituality column called Inbox Inspirations which one can receive at no cost (fathermikeinbox@gmail.com). Fr. Michael’s Sunday homilies are also available at www.fathermikeschleupner.blogspot.com. His weekend Mass schedule is on Facebook (www.facebook.com/FatherMikeSchleupner). Fr. Michael offers spiritual direction at Our Lady of Grace Parish in Parkton\, at the Caritas Counseling Center in Lutherville\, and at the Saint Luke Institute in Silver Spring. He is a graduate of the Bon Secours Spiritual Direction Institute. In recent years\, he has also done studies in spirituality and secularism.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/silent-directed-retreat-july-2026/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight,Silent
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260717T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260719T113000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20250925T112207Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T112207Z
UID:11871-1784304000-1784460600@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:May Stillness Be Your Companion
DESCRIPTION:Given the busyness of our work\, summer activities\, and more\, you are invited to come and allow holy stillness to become the invited guest at your table. We will let Psalm 46 inform our contemplative time of silence\, along with experiences of lectio divina\, journaling\, and how to be a companion to stillness. The contemplative practices will invite us to define and welcome stillness as a rhythm of life. How can we encounter stillness for the rest of the calendar year? Let the gift of being in community embrace the attributes of stillness. Guided by Sandra Dorsainvil. \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. \nRev. Sandra Dorsainvil is an ordained minister with the American Baptist Churches\, USA. She serves as a ministry coach and women’s group retreat facilitator with the Center for Career Development & Ministry. Rev. Sandra offers ministry coaching accompaniment to clergy and BIPOC women through her private consulting agency\, CONNECT-SD\, LLC. Her bilingual abilities in English and French and experiences living in Africa\, Europe\, and North America offer a unique cross-cultural approach to clients and organizations. She has graduate degrees in pastoral ministry from Boston College and in rehabilitation counseling and psychology from Boston University. She is an ICF coach certified. She has completed Level 1 of Group Spiritual Direction and the Transforming Community program at The Shalem Institute. Rev. Sandra brings over 35 years of human services\, including mental health and disability advocacy\, group retreat facilitation\, and pastorate\, national\, and international ministry engagements. Rev. Sandra is a published author of several books in English and in Spanish. The ministry of deep listening and presence is a core element in her work\, and she makes sure participants in her retreats and one-on-one coaching sessions are seen\, heard\, and covered in prayers.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/may-stillness-be-your-companion/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260717T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260719T160000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20260210T154552Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260422T153002Z
UID:12252-1784304000-1784476800@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Bon Secours Studio Weekend
DESCRIPTION:Studio space + pool = perfect summer weekend. Join fellow artists and makers of all types for a “séjour artistique” — a retreat-stay focused on art. You’ll have your own workstation in a community space from 4pm Friday through 4pm Sunday. That’s 48 hours of Bon Secours hospitality…so you have nothing to do but create. Work outside too on one of the picnic tables or a bench by the pond. Optional sessions on helpful topics will be offered such as Color 101 and Visual Prayer. The weekend closes with an invitation to share your work. Open to all experience levels and all media except oil-based paints. \nCheck-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief welcome session at 5:30pm\, followed by dinner at 6pm. Mass will be available Sunday morning for those who wish to attend. The retreat concludes at 4pm Sunday. Guided by Tara Mulder. \nTara Mulder realized she was an artist while painting a still life at the age of 15. Recreating the weathered wood grain of an old sled had such a joyful rightness about it that she knew an artist was who God made her to be. Fast forward through several years as a high school art teacher and a variety of creative day jobs\, and Tara is still creating art with a sense of joyful rightness using a mosaic technique she developed. Her work\, both faith-themed and non-objective\, has been featured in juried and solo shows. For more about Tara and her current body of work\, visit TMulder.studio.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/bon-secours-studio-weekend-july/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260718T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260718T153000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20250925T112322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T112322Z
UID:11875-1784381400-1784388600@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Virtual Caregiver's Support Group - July
DESCRIPTION:Soul Care of Self for Caregivers: A Bi-Monthly Spiritual Support Group on Zoom \nScheduled 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. \nThe 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. \nParticipants 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. \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.  \n 
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/virtual-caregivers-support-group-july-2/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Virtual
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260723T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260723T160000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20250925T112946Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T112946Z
UID:11877-1784799000-1784822400@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Creator and the Cosmos — DAY Retreat Option
DESCRIPTION:It seems that the dawning of each new day brings with it another discovery of the immensity and complexity of our cosmos. With each finding\, the awesomeness of our creator becomes ever clearer. In the words of the title song by Rich Mullins\, “Our God is an Awesome God!” During this day of meditation\, we will have the opportunity to engage with our creator and the cosmos through visio divina and audio divina. Similar to lectio divina\, which focuses on scripture\, visio divina focuses on sacred seeing. It is an ancient form of prayer involving meditating through sight. It invites one to engage with an image in a way that will move our minds and hearts to the presence of God. In addition\, there will be recordings of sounds from space so we may enter into audio divina. These forms of prayer will encourage us to sharpen our senses of seeing and hearing as a way to connect with the divine\, deepening our awareness of God and God’s love. The day will include communal prayer\, meditation\, visio divina\, and audio divina\, as well as free time to journal\, walk with nature\, or simply rest in the presence of our God. Lunch is included. Guided by Donna Bilek. \nThere is also an overnight option for this retreat. If you would like to stay overnight as part of the Creator and the Cosmos Retreat\, please see details below for “Creator and the Cosmos — Overnight Option” and register for your preferred option. \nDonna Bilek\, a 2018 graduate of the Bon Secours Spiritual Direction Institute\, is a spiritual director and companion with over fifteen years’ experience. As an Associate with the School Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND)\, she serves on the Ongoing Personal Development in Community Committee for the SSNDs\, presenting reflections and prayer on various topics\, including grief and loss. Donna teaches and guides prayer at “earthwalk Center for Wholeness\,” which she founded in 2005. For thirteen years\, Donna taught Spirituality\, Biblical Studies\, and Death and Dying at Notre Dame of Maryland University. She has a master’s degree in Theology from St. Mary’s Seminary & University.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/creator-and-the-cosmos-day-retreat-option/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Daytime,Just Added,Nature
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260723T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260724T113000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20250925T113307Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T113307Z
UID:11880-1784799000-1784892600@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Creator and the Cosmos — OVERNIGHT Option
DESCRIPTION:It seems that the dawning of each new day brings with it another discovery of the immensity and complexity of our cosmos. With each finding\, the awesomeness of our creator becomes ever clearer. In the words of the title song by Rich Mullins\, “Our God is an Awesome God!” During this day of meditation\, we will have the opportunity to engage with our creator and the cosmos through visio divina and audio divina. Similar to lectio divina\, which focuses on scripture\, visio divina focuses on sacred seeing. It is an ancient form of prayer involving meditating through sight. It invites one to engage with an image in a way that will move our minds and hearts to the presence of God. In addition\, there will be recordings of sounds from space so we may enter into audio divina. These forms of prayer will encourage us to sharpen our senses of seeing and hearing as a way to connect with the divine\, deepening our awareness of God and God’s love. The day will include communal prayer\, meditation\, visio divina\, and audio divina\, as well as free time to journal\, walk with nature\, or simply rest in the presence of our God. Lunch is included. Guided by Donna Bilek. \nThe main part of this retreat will take place on Thursday from 9:30am-4pm\, with lunch included. The overnight option also includes lodging\, dinner on Thursday\, and breakfast on Friday. There will be optional stargazing on Thursday night and morning meditation and prayer on Friday. The retreat ends before lunch on Friday. Check-out is at 11am. \nThere is also a day-only option for this retreat on July 23 from 9:30am-4pm. Please see details for “Creator and the Cosmos — Day Retreat Option” above and register for your preferred option. \nDonna Bilek\, a 2018 graduate of the Bon Secours Spiritual Direction Institute\, is a spiritual director and companion with over fifteen years’ experience. As an Associate with the School Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND)\, she serves on the Ongoing Personal Development in Community Committee for the SSNDs\, presenting reflections and prayer on various topics\, including grief and loss. Donna teaches and guides prayer at “earthwalk Center for Wholeness\,” which she founded in 2005. For thirteen years\, Donna taught Spirituality\, Biblical Studies\, and Death and Dying at Notre Dame of Maryland University. She has a master’s degree in Theology from St. Mary’s Seminary & University.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/creator-and-the-cosmos-overnight-option/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Daytime,Just Added,Nature
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260725T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260801T130000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20250723T053244Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T144226Z
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. \nElaine Ireland\, MA is a spiritual director\, retreat leader\, and writer with over 20 years in Christian ministry. She has a Master of Arts in Spiritual and Pastoral Care from Loyola University and has led numerous people through the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius in Everyday Life\, as well as companioning others on their spiritual journeys. She writes weekly scripture reflections; for the past 17 years\, she has written Come and See in ordinary time and Provisions for the Journey during Advent and Lent\, both of which can be found on a Dominican website called Preacher (PreacherExchange.com/comeandsee.htm). She is passionate about world and indigenous faith practices\, inspirational poetry and music\, and how we are to live Christ’s calling in the 21st century. \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/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight,Silent
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260807T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260809T113000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20250925T114354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T144436Z
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). \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 spouse” 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. \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/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Featured Speakers,Just Added,Overnight
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260809T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260815T113000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20250811T134547Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T142149Z
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/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight,Silent
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260819T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260819T160000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060615
CREATED:20250925T115006Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T115035Z
UID:11889-1787131800-1787155200@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Savoring Summer: A Self-Care Day for Women
DESCRIPTION:Late summer is nature’s soft exhale — a gentle pause between the outward energy of summer and the inward pull of autumn. It’s a season for centering\, grounding\, and savoring life’s simple abundance. In Chinese medicine\, this “fifth season” invites us to come back to center\, root into the present\, and nourish ourselves deeply before the busyness of the next cycle begins. In this restorative one-day retreat for women\, we’ll gather for guided meditation\, reflective journaling\, time in nature\, art-making\, and restful pauses. You will have space to breathe\, listen inwardly\, and replenish your energy — releasing the need to “do” and embracing the pleasure of simply “being.” Lunch is included. Guided by Michelle Lisenbee. \nMichelle 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. \nWant to extend your retreat experience? With at least 48 hours’ notice (and subject to availability)\, Bon Secours offers “private retreats” with lodging and meals. Register for two back-to-back day retreats and add an overnight stay as a private retreatant for the night between. Call the Welcome Center at 410-442-3120 to inquire about booking a private retreat.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/savoring-summer-a-self-care-day-for-women/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Daytime,Just Added
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260820T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260820T160000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060616
CREATED:20250925T121003Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T121003Z
UID:11894-1787218200-1787241600@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Holy Yoga Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Holy Yoga Flow: Movement & Meditation with the Divine in Mind \n‘Come away with me’ says our Lord. We are meant to live and move and have our being in Him. Let’s take a break from the busy\, roll out our mats\, and lay our worries down before The One who sees\, knows\, and understands all. Bring your yoga mat\, a bottle of water\, comfortable loose clothes\, and a journal to this time of gentle\, intentional movement and mindful meditation with the Divine in mind. Lunch is included. Guided by Sanyika Calloway. \n \nSanyika Calloway is a certified master yoga instructor with specializations in restorative yoga\, vinyasa flow\, yoga with weights\, and yoga classes for all levels. Her classes are designed to accommodate beginners as well as advanced practitioners. She is passionate about helping participants move more freely and breathe easily\, both on and off the mat. In addition to her yoga training and certifications\, Sanyika holds a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication and a master’s degree in Psychology.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/holy-yoga-retreat/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Daytime,Just Added
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260821T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260824T113000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060616
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/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260825T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260825T200000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060616
CREATED:20251205T191647Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251205T191647Z
UID:12115-1787684400-1787688000@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:In-Person\, Evening Centering Prayer Session
DESCRIPTION:Held IN PERSON on the \n\n2nd and 5th Tuesdays of the month\, 1-2pm and\n4th Tuesday of the month\, 7-8pm.\n\nFor these in-person sessions\, registration is required and preferred in advance. \n(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.) \nCentering 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. \nFacilitation 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.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/in-person-evening-centering-prayer-session-31/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Silent
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260827T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260827T160000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060616
CREATED:20250925T122648Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T122648Z
UID:11904-1787823000-1787846400@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Growing Old for Heaven’s Sake
DESCRIPTION:Exploring Spiritualities of Aging \nThe 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. \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/growing-old-for-heavens-sake/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Daytime,Just Added
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260828T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260903T130000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060616
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/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260902T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260902T150000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060616
CREATED:20260313T145030Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T145030Z
UID:12347-1788341400-1788361200@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Friends Day of Prayer: Rev. Mary Ka Kanahan
DESCRIPTION:Facing Fear\, Finding Faith \nIn 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. \nThrough 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. \nAll 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. \nRev. 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.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/friends-day-of-prayer-rev-mary-ka-kanahan-2/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Daytime,Friends Day of Prayer,Just Added
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260908T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260908T104500
DTSTAMP:20260423T060616
CREATED:20251205T194021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251205T194021Z
UID:12135-1788859800-1788864300@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Quiet Mornings - In Person Session
DESCRIPTION:Quiet Mornings sessions are currently being held IN-PERSON on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. \n(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.)\nPlease email Joanne at jmcahooneph3@gmail.com for the Zoom sessions invitation for Virtual sessions. \nQuiet 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. \nEach 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. \nJoanne Cahoon\, D.Min. – spiritual director\, retreat leader\, coach – facilitates the Quiet Mornings. 
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/quiet-mornings-in-person-session-29/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Daytime,Just Added,Silent
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260908T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260908T140000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060616
CREATED:20251205T180935Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251205T181048Z
UID:12080-1788872400-1788876000@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:In-Person Centering Prayer Session
DESCRIPTION:Held IN PERSON on the: \n\n2nd and 5th Tuesdays of the month\, 1-2pm and\n4th Tuesday of the month\, 7-8pm.\n\nFor these in-person sessions\, registration is required in advance\, due by the Monday before each in-person session.  \n(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.) \nCentering 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. \nFacilitation 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.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/in-person-centering-prayer-session-29/
LOCATION:Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center\, 1525 Marriottsville Road\, Marriottsville\, MD\, 21104\, United States
CATEGORIES:Daytime,Just Added
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260911T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260911T160000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060616
CREATED:20260313T145421Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T145421Z
UID:12349-1789119000-1789142400@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Awareness of God Through Mindfulness and Centering Prayer
DESCRIPTION: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. \nCome 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. \nWear 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. \nHeather 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.
URL:https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/awareness-of-god-through-mindfulness-and-centering-prayer/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Daytime,Just Added
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260912T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260912T160000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060616
CREATED:20260313T145742Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T145742Z
UID:12352-1789205400-1789228800@bonsecoursrcc.org
SUMMARY:Caregiver's Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Uncovering the Blessings of the Caregiver Journey – A Day of Retreat & Reflection \nThis 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. \nWe also offer a bi-monthly support group for caregivers on Zoom in January\, March\, May\, July\, September\, and November. \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/caregivers-retreat-6/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Daytime,Just Added
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260917T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260920T130000
DTSTAMP:20260423T060616
CREATED:20250918T165850Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T151252Z
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/
LOCATION:MD
CATEGORIES:Just Added,Overnight
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