Initial Elders Retreat-No Online Bookings (This Retreat is Fully Booked)

Email: guerricheckel@gmail.com to request a registration form)

The Institute of Contemplative Aging at Mepkin Abbey schedules several retreats a year for those in the second half of life (those 65 and older). During the retreat, contemplative practices are explored as a way to welcome the inner life of self-development and spiritual growth as we move into elder hood. Through sharing of common experiences and fears of aging, participants have the opportunity to view aging as a gift and an opportunity for growth rather than decline.

A suggested donation for this retreat is $350 for weekdays and $300 for weekends. Because of the demand for this retreat, a pre-registration fee is required to assure a space. Please send $200 to: Contemplative Aging retreat, 1098 Mepkin Abbey Rd, Moncks Corner, SC 29461 (Make check payable to Mepkin Abbey)

Rooms in the brand-new St. Francis Retreat Center include a bed, desk, reading chair, and private bath. Bed linens, towels, and soap are provided. Married couples can be accommodated in adjoining rooms.

Retreatants take their meals together in a dining facility adjacent to the monastic community’s refectory, with the same vegetarian diet and observing the same silence as the monks. During the main meal at noon a book is read aloud by one of the monks for the benefit of all.

Retreatants may attend any and all prayer services in the Abbey Church and have a designated section in the monastic choir to accommodate them, if they so desire. One of the monks assists the retreatants with the order of prayer so as to facilitate their full participation.

Spiritual counseling and sacramental reconciliation (Confession) are available upon request. The Clare Boothe Luce Library is open to retreatants Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Our facilities include two fully ADA-compliant rooms with adjoining accomodations for personal assistants.

Advance reservations are required as is prior notice of cancellation. Up to fourteen people can be accommodated at any one time in the new St Francis Retreat Center.

Please include your cell phone number.

See www.MepkinAbbey.org for more information