Spiritual Formation and Retreat Programs
Spiritual Formation
Spiritual formation is an intentional Christian practice that has as its goal the development of spiritual maturity that leads to Christ-likeness. Ancient Christian spiritual practices (prayer, the study of scripture, the sacraments, fasting, simplicity, solitude, adoration, worship, etc.) are practices which help foster spiritual formation.
Retreat Programs
Villa St. Joseph Retreat and Ecology Centre
Villa St. Joseph Ecology & Spirituality Centre is owned and staffed by the Sisters of St. Joseph.
The historic building on the shores of Lake Ontario has a long and varied history.
We value wholistic spirituality inclusive of all peoples and all the earth.
We approach ministry and programs from an ecological, inter-faith and justice-oriented stance.
Our Centre offers a quiet, relaxing environment in which to rest, reflect and be renewed in body and spirit.
Manresa Jesuit Spiritual Renewal Centre in Pickering
The retreat is about deepening one's relationship with God. Manresa has two very important tools for this quest. The first is the beauty of God's creation manifested in its 21 acres. The second is something that our own culture cannot provide - silence. Unplugging from a frenetic and noisy environment can refresh and renew the body, mind, and spirit. Many who come for retreats wonder what two days of silence will be like and whether they are up to the challenge. Most agree that it was one of the richest and most consoling aspects of the retreat. The silence helps to create the conditions for listening to the inner voice of the Spirit.
Although the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius and the Scriptures is the constant core of the retreats, both their presentation and audience have changed to reflect the evolving nature of the Church and the needs of our world. Manresa also conducts 12-step retreats as well as programs for religious organizations, professional associations, and groups based on language and culture.
STILLPOINT House of Prayer is nestled on the banks of the beautiful Madawaska River. It was first established in the early 1800's as an inn for lumbermen bringing their logs to market. Called Stopping Place, this facility was noted and remembered for the hospitality it offered to all who came.Since 1989 our House of Prayer setting has continued the tradition of hospitality initiated so long ago. Silence, simplicity, hospitality, prayer.
Loyola House Retreat and Training Centre
Since 1964, Loyola House has welcomed people of all faiths to deepen their spirituality through retreats and spiritual training. Our Retreat House specializes in Ignatian Spirituality retreats and training programs for spiritual directors. The Spiritual Exercises, a spiritual guide written by Ignatius of Loyola, is the foundation of Ignatian Spirituality.
Loyola House has earned an international reputation for its work in Ignatian Spirituality and the adaptation of the Exercises to address themes including community, ecology, and promoting greater awareness and healing action for Earth.