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Upcoming Events

Private Directed Retreats

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Throughout the year by arrangement

The Abbey Guest Center is able to provide a limited number of personal directed retreats. The length of retreat may be six or eight days. Please allow at least 30 days for us to arrange for a personal director for your retreat. (Suggested donation for a six-day directed retreat with individual session each day: $400; suggested donation for an eight-day directed retreat with individual session each day: $500).

 

The Beautiful Word in Beautiful Words Retreat

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, May 24-26, 2013

A time to explore calligraphy – beautiful writing – as a pathway to better lectio divina – the prayerful pondering of Scripture so central to a vital Christian life. Br. Michael Marcotte, a talented and experienced calligrapher, will introduce you to a foundational hand and move from the basics of the lettering to the use of calligraphy in your prayerful reflection. No previous experience is required. Calligraphic markers, exemplars and paper will be provided. There will be time to celebrate the Eucharist and the Liturgy of the Hours with the monastic community, as well as time for reflection, practice and walks through the beautiful Abbey grounds in springtime. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences, and reception: $180 for single accommodations, $150 per person for double accommodations.)

 

Faith and Fun: A Family Retreat Weekend

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Saturday morning through Sunday noon, July 27-28, 2013

Rural Conception Abbey offers a unique location for a retreat combining spiritual renewal with a spirit of fun for the family. Join Karen Ceckowski, Br. Placid Dale and Fr. Patrick Caveglia at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday for activities for children and some adult reflections. There will be time for games, fishing and being outdoors, as well as opportunities for quiet adult conversation. You’ll be invited to join the monks in praying the Liturgy of the Hours and celebrating the Eucharist. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences and snacks: $40 per person. Children under 12 are free!)

 

A "Benedict on Business Retreat: "Working Together Humbly"

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, August 23-25, 2013

Fr. Benedict Neenan, Br. Jacob Kubajak, and Fr. Patrick Caveglia – all seasoned monks who have studied business – will lead reflections and discussions on the role of humility in the workplace. The wisdom of St. Benedict may help you to creatively address issues you face in everyday work. Time will be provided for quiet reading, prayer and conversation. You can join the monks for the Liturgy of the Hours and the whole Conception community for the Eucharist. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences and reception: $160 for single accommodations, $130 per person for double accommodations.)

 

Our 2nd Annual Photography Retreat

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, September 6-8, 2013

Our rural location offers a unique place for photography. You can combine some spiritual rest with artistic challenges and dialogue with seasoned photographers Karen Ceckowski, Br. Paul Sheller and Fr. Kenneth Reichert. Share techniques and tips with the team and other photographers, and explore ways to use your digital camera and software to crop and enhance your photos. Time will be provided for quiet prayer and conversation, too. You’ll be able to join the monks in praying the Liturgy of the Hours and celebrating the Eucharist. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences and reception: $160 for single accommodations, $130 per person for double accommodations.)

 

October Confirmation Retreat

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Saturday morning through Sunday noon, October 5-6, 2013

Join the Conception Abbey retreat team of monks, seminarians and Karen Ceckowski for an unforgettable weekend. Beginning on Saturday morning, retreat presentations bring together the essential elements of the Catholic faith to help candidates understand, explain and live out their faith. Students will leave with a better understanding of sacramental theology, the importance of prayer and how to enter into Sunday Mass with a renewed enthusiasm. The weekend includes times when the youth people join the monks for the Liturgy of the Hours. A candle-light Reconciliation Service Saturday night allows youth to approach Confession and fulfills diocesan requirements for pre-confirmation prep. Before Sunday Mass, a question and answer session with a monk and seminarians allows sharing and reflection about individual vocations in the Church. (Call 660-944-2809 or 660-944-2909 for details on reservations for your church Confirmation group)

 

2nd Annual Hand-Loom Weaving Retreat

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, October 18-20, 2013

Learn about hand-loom weaving and share new ideas with other weavers. This weekend, led by Karen Ceckowski, will provide you with time to slow down and practice your skills. You’ll learn to make a scarf and a hat you can take home with you! Time will also be provided for quiet reflection, prayer and relaxation. You’ll be invited to share in the Liturgy of the Hours with the monks and to celebrate the Eucharist with the whole Conception community. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences, personal hand looms, and reception: $180 for single accommodations, $150 per person for double accommodations. After you make your reservation, we’ll contact you about the quantity and weight of yarn to bring in colors of your choice.)

 

Marriage, the Trinity and the Image and Likeness of God: A Couples Retreat

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, October 25-27, 2013

Join Oblate couple Rhonda and Kevin Heim and Fr. Albert Bruecken in pondering and discussing how the relationship within the Trinity can be mirrored in your marriage. Conferences and discussions will alternate with quiet times for prayer and relaxation. Couples will share rooms with private bathrooms in St. Gabriel Guest House. You will be invited to join the monks in praying the Liturgy of the Hours and the monks and seminarians for celebrations of the Eucharist. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences and reception: $260 per couple with double accommodations.)

 

November Confirmation Retreat

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Saturday morning through Sunday noon, November 2-3, 2013

Join the Conception Abbey retreat team of monks, seminarians and Karen Ceckowski for an unforgettable weekend. Beginning on Saturday morning, retreat presentations bring together the essential elements of the Catholic faith to help candidates understand, explain and live out their faith. Students will leave with a better understanding of sacramental theology, the importance of prayer and how to enter into Sunday Mass with a renewed enthusiasm. The weekend includes times when the youth people join the monks for the Liturgy of the Hours. A candle-light Reconciliation Service Saturday night allows youth to approach Confession and fulfills diocesan requirements for pre-confirmation prep. Before Sunday Mass, a question and answer session with a monk and seminarians allows sharing and reflection about individual vocations in the Church. (Call 660-944-2809 or 660-944-2909 for details on reservations for your church Confirmation group)

 

Let's Begin at the Beginning: The Prologue of St. Benedict's Rule

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, November 15-17, 2013

For people new to the Rule of St. Benedict or those who have followed it for years, the Prologue remains a poetic and theological guide to monastic virtue. Join Oblate Ann Cole and Fr. Patrick Caveglia in discussing the Prologue for modern Christians seeking to anchor their spiritual life. There will be ample time for reflection, reading and prayer. You’ll be invited to join the monastic community in praying the Liturgy of the Hours and the monks and seminarians in celebrating the Eucharist. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences and reception: $160 for single accommodations, $130 per person for double accommodations.)

 

Common Book Retreat for Advent: The Coming of God by Maria Boulding

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, November 22-24, 2013

We’ll provide the books and spend the weekend getting you started. Then you can take the book home and continue to read it during the Advent season. The weekend will include time for quiet reading and prayer, as well as conversation. Join the monks in praying the Liturgy of the Hours and in celebrating the Eucharist. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences, your personal copy of the Advent book, and reception: $170 for single accommodations, $150 per person for double accommodations.)

 

December Confirmation Retreat

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Saturday morning through Sunday noon, December 7-8, 2013

Join the Conception Abbey retreat team of monks, seminarians and Karen Ceckowski for an unforgettable weekend. Beginning on Saturday morning, retreat presentations bring together the essential elements of the Catholic faith to help candidates understand, explain and live out their faith. Students will leave with a better understanding of sacramental theology, the importance of prayer and how to enter into Sunday Mass with a renewed enthusiasm. The weekend includes times when the youth people join the monks for the Liturgy of the Hours. A candle-light Reconciliation Service Saturday night allows youth to approach Confession and fulfills diocesan requirements for pre-confirmation prep. Before Sunday Mass, a question and answer session with a monk and seminarians allows sharing and reflection about individual vocations in the Church. (Call 660-944-2809 or 660-944-2909 for details on reservations for your church Confirmation group)

 

Advent Day of Reflection: Exploring Jesus' Family Tree

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Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Jesus himself tells us that he came to fulfill the Law, and his roots are in the people of Israel. Join Fr. Patrick Caveglia and Oblate Toni Hamara to explore the Old Testament family roots of Jesus. Looking at Jesus’ Jewish background will help shape your Advent prayer in preparation for the Christmas feast. We’ll begin with coffee and rolls at 9:00 a.m. After the first conference at 9:30 a.m., you’ll have time for quiet reflection and prayer.  Mass and lunch follow, with more quiet time and a concluding conference at 2:30 pm.  (Suggested donation for conferences, lunch and materials: $20 per person.)

 

Our New Year's Retreat: Tick, Tock - Time and the Daily Presence of God

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Sunday evening through Tuesday noon, December 30, 2013 – January 1, 2014

Our popular New Year’s retreat will focus on how God is present in the daily events of our lives – the exciting and the ordinary moments. Join Fr. Patrick Caveglia, Karen Ceckowski and Oblates Pam and Vance Briddell as we reflect on the passage of time and how we need to live in the daily and the ordinary. You’ll find ample time for quiet reflection and prayer, have the opportunity to celebrate Reconciliation, and enjoy a festive New Year’s reception. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences and reception: $160 for single accommodations, $130 per person for double accommodations.)

 

Craft Retreat: Pottery

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, January 10-14, 2014

This hands-on retreat will allow you to experience working with clay by both wheel throwing and hand building techniques. No experience needed, just the desire to learn. Veterans welcomed as well. Hobbyist potter Karen Ceckowski will pass on some of the techniques she has learned from various sources. She will also provide a spiritual spin on the many biblical references to the master potter who forms and shapes us daily. Bring Bibles, old work clothes and an open spirit. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences, social and clay materials: $170 single room, $150 each for double accommodations)

 

January Confirmation Retreat

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Saturday morning through Sunday noon, January 18-19, 2014

Join the Conception Abbey retreat team of monks, seminarians and Karen Ceckowski for an unforgettable weekend. Beginning on Saturday morning, retreat presentations bring together the essential elements of the Catholic faith to help candidates understand, explain and live out their faith. Students will leave with a better understanding of sacramental theology, the importance of prayer and how to enter into Sunday Mass with a renewed enthusiasm. The weekend includes times when the youth people join the monks for the Liturgy of the Hours. A candle-light Reconciliation Service Saturday night allows youth to approach Confession and fulfills diocesan requirements for pre-confirmation prep. Before Sunday Mass, a question and answer session with a monk and seminarians allows sharing and reflection about individual vocations in the Church. (Call 660-944-2809 or 660-944-2909 for details on reservations for your church Confirmation group)

 

Wintery Seasons: Persevering in Suffering and Hope

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, January 24-26, 2014

The cold of winter brings challenges to our hope, especially when suffering enters into life and we have not taken time to fully process it. Join Fr. Patrick Caveglia, Oblates Louise Cummins and Bill Mitchell for reflection and discussion through the weekend. Ample time will be provided for personal prayer and reflection, as well as an opportunity to celebrate Reconciliation and join for social time as a group. You will be able to pray the Liturgy of the Hours with the monastic community, and celebrate the Eucharist with the monks and seminarians. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences and reception: $160 for single accommodations, $130 per person for double accommodations.)

 

Ad Altare Dei Program for Catholic Boy Scouts

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Saturday morning through Sunday noon, January 25-26, 2014

Catholic Boy Scouts can use this opportunity to work on requirements concerning Holy Orders and Reconciliation for the Ad Altare Dei medal. The day includes meetings on requirements, Mass with the monks, lunch, recreation time, dinner and a closing communal Reconciliation service on Saturday evening. Overnight accommodations are available for groups wishing to come Friday night or stay for Lauds and Eucharist on Sunday. Karen Ceckowski leads the AGC team, and has been working with Scout troops for over 15 years. She will serve as the Ad Altare Dei counselor. (Suggested donation for conferences, meals and materials: $30 per person. For an overnight stay, add $25 per person for lodging and extra meals.)

 

Ad Altare Dei Program for Catholic Boy Scouts

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Saturday morning through Sunday noon, January 25-26, 2014

Catholic Boy Scouts can use this opportunity to work on requirements concerning Holy Orders and Reconciliation for the Ad Altare Dei medal. The day includes meetings on requirements, Mass with the monks, lunch, recreation time, dinner and a closing communal Reconciliation service on Saturday evening. Overnight accommodations are available for groups wishing to come Friday night or stay for Lauds and Eucharist on Sunday. Karen Ceckowski leads the AGC team, and has been working with Scout troops for over 15 years. She will serve as the Ad Altare Dei counselor. (Suggested donation for conferences, meals and materials: $30 per person. For an overnight stay, add $25 per person for lodging and extra meals.)

 

Art and Spirituality Retreat

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, January 31 – February 2, 2014

The arts have provided windows on the soul, leading believers to deeper faith and spirituality. Join Karen Ceckowski and Br. Michael Marcotte in exploring ways of using painting, sculpture, music, and calligraphy to encourage your own faith and religious disciplines.  Conferences, times for discussion and quiet prayer, and social opportunities will be included in the weekend. You’ll also have the opportunity to pray the Liturgy of the Hours with the monks and celebrate the Eucharist with the whole Conception community. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences and reception: $160 for single accommodations, $130 per person for double accommodations.)

 

1st February Confirmation Retreat

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Saturday morning through Sunday noon, February 8-9, 2014

Join the Conception Abbey retreat team of monks, seminarians and Karen Ceckowski for an unforgettable weekend. Beginning on Saturday morning, retreat presentations bring together the essential elements of the Catholic faith to help candidates understand, explain and live out their faith. Students will leave with a better understanding of sacramental theology, the importance of prayer and how to enter into Sunday Mass with a renewed enthusiasm. The weekend includes times when the youth people join the monks for the Liturgy of the Hours. A candle-light Reconciliation Service Saturday night allows youth to approach Confession and fulfills diocesan requirements for pre-confirmation prep. Before Sunday Mass, a question and answer session with a monk and seminarians allows sharing and reflection about individual vocations in the Church. (Call 660-944-2809 or 660-944-2909 for details on reservations for your church Confirmation group)

 

Learning to Pray Together (Better): A Couples' Retreat

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, February 14-16, 2014

Join Oblate couple Barb and George Appleby and Fr. Xavier Nacke in exploring ways of praying (better) in your marriage. Good conferences and discussions will alternate with quiet times for prayer and relaxation. Couples will share rooms with private bathrooms in St. Gabriel Guest House. You will have the opportunity to join the monks in praying the Liturgy of the Hours and the monks and seminarians for celebrations of the Eucharist. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences and reception: $260 per couple with double accommodations.)

 

2nd February Confirmation Retreat

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Saturday morning through Sunday noon, February 22-23, 2014

Join the Conception Abbey retreat team of monks, seminarians and Karen Ceckowski for an unforgettable weekend. Beginning on Saturday morning, retreat presentations bring together the essential elements of the Catholic faith to help candidates understand, explain and live out their faith. Students will leave with a better understanding of sacramental theology, the importance of prayer and how to enter into Sunday Mass with a renewed enthusiasm. The weekend includes times when the youth people join the monks for the Liturgy of the Hours. A candle-light Reconciliation Service Saturday night allows youth to approach Confession and fulfills diocesan requirements for pre-confirmation prep. Before Sunday Mass, a question and answer session with a monk and seminarians allows sharing and reflection about individual vocations in the Church. (Call 660-944-2809 or 660-944-2909 for details on reservations for your church Confirmation group)

 

Common Book Retreat for Lent: Everyday Simplicity: A Practical Guide to Spiritual Growth by Robert J. Wick

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, February 28 – March 2, 2014

We’ll provide the books and we’ll spend the weekend together getting started. Then you can take the book home and continue to read it throughout the Lenten season. The weekend will include time for quiet reading and prayer, as well as conversation and discussion. Join the monks in praying the Liturgy of the Hours and in celebrating the Eucharist. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences, your personal copy of the Lenten book, and reception: $180 for single accommodations, $150 per person for double accommodations.)

 

March Confirmation Retreat

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Saturday morning through Sunday noon, March 8-9, 2014

Join the Conception Abbey retreat team of monks, seminarians and Karen Ceckowski for an unforgettable weekend. Beginning on Saturday morning, retreat presentations bring together the essential elements of the Catholic faith to help candidates understand, explain and live out their faith. Students will leave with a better understanding of sacramental theology, the importance of prayer and how to enter into Sunday Mass with a renewed enthusiasm. The weekend includes times when the youth people join the monks for the Liturgy of the Hours. A candle-light Reconciliation Service Saturday night allows youth to approach Confession and fulfills diocesan requirements for pre-confirmation prep. Before Sunday Mass, a question and answer session with a monk and seminarians allows sharing and reflection about individual vocations in the Church. (Call 660-944-2809 or 660-944-2909 for details on reservations for your church Confirmation group)

 

Lenten Day of Reflection: "What can St. Joseph teach us about Lent?"

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Wednesday, March 19, 2014

The silent foster father of Jesus can encourage us as we ponder the mysteries of our salvation during Lent. Join Fr. Patrick Caveglia and Oblate Mary Riley on the Solemnity of St. Joseph to consider this holy man’s response to God’s grace. We’ll begin with coffee and rolls at 9:00 a.m. After the first conference at 9:30 a.m., you’ll have time for quiet reflection and prayer. Mass and lunch follow, with more quiet time and a concluding conference at 3:00 pm. (Suggested donation for conferences, lunch and material: $20 per person.)

 

Psalms Retreat

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, March 21-23, 2014

Abbot Gregory Polan will guide you in this retreat on the Psalter, the Church’s great prayer book. Abbot Gregory will use the new Revised Grail Psalter translation this weekend. You will enjoy stimulating conferences and the opportunity for discussion, as well as having quiet time for prayer and reflection. Join the monks of Conception Abbey in singing the psalms at the Liturgy of the Hours and celebrate the Eucharist with the monks and seminarians. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences, your personal copy of the Revised Grail Psalter, and reception: $180 for single accommodations, $150 per person for double accommodations.)

 

Memories: Scrapbooking Craft

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, March 28-30, 2014

Many people find scrapbooking a wonderful way of celebrating past life events and protecting memories for future generations. Join Karen Ceckowski and Maggie Thomas, both veteran scrapbookers, in exploring new ideas and seeing how this craft can be a spiritual vehicle for memories. On-hands work and conversations with other scrapbookers will introduce you to new ideas and techniques. You’ll have time during the weekend to join the monks for the Liturgy of the Hours and the monks and seminarians for celebrations of the Eucharist. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences, some materials, and reception: $180 for single accommodations, $150 per person for double accommodations.)   

 

Palm Sunday RCIA Retreat

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Saturday morning through Sunday noon, April 12-13, 2014

Begin your Holy Week with the monks of Conception Abbey and the seminarians of Conception Seminary College. Retreat sessions with Karen Ceckowski and the AGC team will pull together the faith basics of a sacramentally-based life in the Catholic Church. A special conference on reconciliation will help prepare those about to celebrate the Sacrament for the first time. A candlelit Reconciliation service Saturday evening including the opportunity for celebrating the Sacrament of Reconciliation individually. You will join the whole Abbey and Seminary community on Sunday morning for the Palm Sunday procession and reading of the Passion. (Suggested donation includes lodging, meals and conferences: $100 per person)

 

Celebrating the Sacred Triduum at the Abbey

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Wednesday evening through Easter Sunday morning, April 16-21, 2014

Join the monks and seminarians for the holiest days of the Church year, celebrating Christ’s Paschal Mystery in community. Moving liturgies in the Abbey Basilica, inspiring conferences, the opportunity for celebrating Reconciliation, and times for silence and personal prayer mark these holy days at Conception Abbey and Seminary College. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals and conferences: $300 single room, $240 each for double accommodations)

 

The Johannine Testimony to the Resurrection: An Easter Retereat

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, April 25-27, 2014

The Resurrection stories in St. John’s Gospel sum up the work of Jesus Christ for our salvation. Fr. Patrick Caveglia and Deacon Frank Lopez will provide you with insights into the Johannine images and testimony. You’ll have time for discussion, as well as for personal prayer and quiet pondering. The opportunity for Reconciliation and an evening social are included. Join the monks in praying the Liturgy of the Hours and the whole Conception community in celebrating the Eucharist. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences and reception: $160 for single accommodations, $130 per person for double accommodations.)

 

Rosary Maker's Craft

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, May 2-4, 2014

Come to Conception Abbey in May, Mary’s month, and practice your rosary making skills! You can learn the basics or discover new techniques. Karen Ceckowski and Oblate Rich O’Neill will guide you through the process with hands-on instructions and time for your own practice. Pray the Liturgy of the Hours with the monastic community, and join the monks and seminarians in celebrating the Eucharist in the Basilica dedicated to the Immaculate Conception. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences, some materials, and reception: $180 for single accommodations, $150 per person for double accommodations.)   

 

How Best to Enjoy the Summer: A Mindfulness Retreat

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Friday evening through Sunday noon, May 23-25, 2014

Do you sometimes find that the busyness of summer allows your focus to wander? As summer begins, come and reflect on mindfulness as a key spiritual discipline. Fr. Patrick Caveglia and Oblate Regis Lopata will provide insights into mindfulness and ways of focusing on the daily and the present. Join the monks for the Liturgy of the Hours and the Eucharist in the Abbey Basilica. (Suggested donation for lodging, meals, conferences and reception: $160 for single accommodations, $130 per person for double accommodations.)