Private Overnight Retreat

M Freeman's Cinema Divina weekends always help me see the Divine at work in the quotidian events of my life. From making coffee to sitting in front of an open widow enjoying the morning breeze, I am reminded that my life is not spectacular but comprised of simple tasks, enjoyable moments talking to a friend, pain-filled days of back problems and a hundred other things that make up a life well lived.

Being at St. Placid Priory was such a friendly, hospitable experience. A staff member greeted me warmly, showed me to my room (pointing out the location of the restroom along the way) and explaining the tricks to using the room key. She also escorted me to dinner that evening, showing me the way from one building to another. I chose to eat my dinner at a table with one of the Sisters, who continued the hospitality in a wonderfully joking way. The Sisters had earlier shown another kind of welcome by including me, and the others in my workshop, into their evening prayers. That was a quiet, gentle welcome. I felt so comforted by my experience at the Priory.

This was a wonderful experience. The retest lead "Denise" was a wonderful facilitator. The group was the perfect size to allow some personal space and some group interaction. Hospitality and the sense of peace at the Priory is unmatched. Thank you for sharing this holy ground with us.

This 20 session program (2 hour sessions over 6 months) covered a wide array of topics one can use in their personal prayer life and share with others. Each presenter was very knowledgeable about their topic and made skillful use of the session. A variety of teaching approaches were used, including slides for visuals and textual information, time for practice and group responses/discussion, and resource information. As a Lutheran I felt very comfortable with the other participants and content. I particularly enjoyed having group members from around the region and country. It will take me another 6 months to review each topic and I am looking forward to that!

Peace and quiet with no expectations. It was amazing.