Retreats and Workshops

2019

OCTOBER

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR SPIRITUAL DIRECTORS

Sophia Center offers four choices for improving your spiritual direction skills and connecting with peers. Souljourners’ graduates (or those who have completed a similar program) may choose from one of the following opportunities:

Monthly Support at Sophia Center

Second Thursdays, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. (October, 2019 – April, 2020)

Facilitators: Sister Mary Elizabeth Schweiger, OSB & Sister Micaela Randolph, OSB

Fee: $80 per year

Monthly Support in the Kansas City Area

Whitacre home, Olathe
Third Tuesdays, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. (October, 2019 – May, 2020)

Facilitator: Mary Kay Whitacre, D.Min

Fee: $80 per year

Monthly Support via ZOOM

First Wednesdays, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. (October, 2019 – May, 2020)

Facilitator: Mary Kay Whitacre, D.Min

Cost: $80 per year

Peer Supervision Weekends at Sophia Center
2019 – Friday, November 1 | 6:00 p.m. – Saturday, November 2 | 4:00 p.m.
2020 – Friday, January 31 | 6:00 p.m. – Saturday, February 1 | 4:00 p.m.

Facilitator: Mary Kay Whitacre, D.Min
Fee: $80 per weekend

The two retreats that follow may each be taken as”stand alone” or they may be taken together as they complement each other. Both help us to be mindful of beauty around us and give creative expression to God’s gifts and presence in our lives.

The price given is for each individually. Taken together the cost is $190, which covers the cost of two retreats, private room for two night, meals, and art supplies.

Monday, October 14 | 4:00 p.m. – Tuesday, October 15 | 3:30 p.m.

CONTEMPLATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY: Encountering the Sacred

Kathleen England

Where do we notice the presence of God? How? When? How could we share our noticing with others? This overnight, with a sunset, a hunter’s moon, and a sunrise, will include discussion of photography as a spiritual practice. There will be extended personal time for seeking out and photographing images of God’s bountiful goodness. This is NOT a course in photographic technique, but an opportunity to explore awareness, connection and contemplation in relation to photography.

Fee: $135; includes a private room and meals. Scholarships available.

Kathleen England is a retired counselor who specialized in working with children and families. Photography is a hobby and a passion. It makes her aware of the manifestation of God all around us and she seeks to share her desire to be in God’s presence through her attentiveness to beauty and creation.

Wednesday, October 16 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

STEPPING INTO IMAGE: Art Journaling as a Contemplative Practice

Renee Bhatia

When the Soul wants to experience something, she throws out an image before her and steps into it.” – Meister Eckhart

Art journaling is a practice that uses color and visual images rather than words alone to reflect on our experience, get in touch with our interior, and pay attention to God’s presence in our life. The art journal can be a place for Soul to “throw out an image,” a place to encounter our true self and the God in whose image we are made. We will explore various ways to keep an art journal, while using different types of art supplies. No previous art experience or skill is necessary; curiosity and a playful spirit are helpful!

Fee: $75, includes retreat, noon meal, art supplies to use and take home.

Renee Bhatia has worked in faith formation in the Catholic Church, in both parishes and diocesan offices. She has an undergraduate degree in psychology and a Masters of Divinity degree from Emory University. She is a graduate of the Souljourners Formation Program for spiritual directors at Sophia Spirituality Center, where she continues t0 serve on staff. Renee is currently enrolled in the Intermodal Expressive Arts Certificate Program at Expressive Arts Florida Institute.

Tuesday, October 15 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (October – December, 2019)

PRAYERFUL PAUSES: Sacred Beads

Facilitated by Mary Kay Whitacre, DMin.

Many faith traditions use beads as a portable altar – a tangible connection between heaven and earth. Come explore with us different ways to use beads in prayer and meditation. You will even get the opportunity to create your own set of sacred beads. The day will begin with spiritual sharing and joining the sisters in the monastery for lunch. The afternoon will be your time. You may continue the spiritual experience from the morning, relax into silence and contemplation, and basically grow closer to yourself and to God.

Fee: $30; includes program and lunch. (Special rates available for groups from the same church staff. Scholarships available.)

Mary Kay Whitacre has served in pastoral ministry in the Catholic Church for over forty years and completed her Doctor of Ministry degree from Seattle University in 2017. She currently is full-time on the staff of the Sophia Spirituality Center as the assistant director of Souljourners, a Spiritual Direction Formation program, and ministers as a spiritual director.

Wednesday, October 16 | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

GETAWAY FOR SELF-RENEWAL – Filled, waiting list

Sister Linda Zahner, OSB

Take care of yourself, so you can be there for others in your life. Self-care is not a luxury; it is vital to your health and well-being. The day will include a guided group meditation period and your choice of one 30-minute bodywork service: massage, reflexology, contemplative healing touch or spiritual direction. Bring a Bible and, if you wish, a journal.

Limited to 5 participants.

Fee: $75, lunch included ($35 non-refundable deposit) Register by October 10. Register online or call 913.360.6173

Sister Linda Zahner, OSB, MA, is a certified Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner as well as a certified licensed massage therapist. She also serves as a spiritual director, with certification in spiritual direction through the Creighton Spirituality program.

Thursday, October 17 | 10:30 a.m.

BRIDGES TO CONTEMPLATIVE LIVING with THOMAS MERTON

Mount St. Scholastica, 801 South 8th Street, Atchison, Kansas
Sisters Gabrielle Kocour, OSB & Sheila Carroll, OSB

Various selections from Thomas Merton will be used to awaken insight and wisdom for the journey toward spiritual transformation and a more peace-filled life.

Sisters Gabrielle Kocour and Sheila Carroll are members of of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and serve as adjunct staff for Sophia Spirituality Center.

Thursday, October 24 | 10:30 a.m.

LECTIO WITH THE SUNDAY SCRIPTURES

Mount St. Scholastica, 801 South 8th Street, Atchison, Kansas
Sisters Gabrielle Kocour, OSB & Sheila Carroll, OSB

Share in the traditional monastic practice of guided reading, listening, reflecting and responding to the Word of God in the Scriptures.

Other dates: Nov. 14, Dec. 12

Sisters Gabrielle Kocour and Sheila Carroll are members of of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and serve as adjunct staff for Sophia Spirituality Center.

Tuesday, October 29 | 6:45 p.m.

BOOK DISCUSSION

Mount St. Scholastica, 801 South 8th Street, Atchison, Kansas
Sisters Gabrielle Kocour, OSB & Sheila Carroll, OSB

Join us for a good read and stimulating discussion on the last Tuesday of the month.

How the Light Gets In by Louise Penny

Next date: Nov. 26 – Maybe, Someday by Colleen Hoover

Sisters Gabrielle Kocour and Sheila Carroll are members of of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and serve as adjunct staff for Sophia Spirituality Center.

Thursday, October 31 | 10:30 a.m.

BRIDGES TO CONTEMPLATIVE LIVING with THOMAS MERTON

Mount St. Scholastica, 801 South 8th Street, Atchison, Kansas
Sisters Gabrielle Kocour, OSB & Sheila Carroll, OSB

Various selections from Thomas Merton will be used to awaken insight and wisdom for the journey toward spiritual transformation and a more peace-filled life.

Other dates: Nov. 7 & 21; Dec. 5

Sisters Gabrielle Kocour and Sheila Carroll are members of of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and serve as adjunct staff for Sophia Spirituality Center.

NOVEMBER

Friday, November 1 | 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

LOOK TO THE SAINTS AND ANGELS FOR INSPIRATION

Mary Donovan

This workshop offers an opportunity to explore a meditative form of prayer through the making of sacred art. Using the language and tradition of the Christian art of icons, participants will create a small illuminated painting to take home.

Suggested donation: $75; includes materials and lunch.

Mary Donovan is an Episcopal seminarian at the Bishop Kemper School for Ministry in Topeka, Kansas and a graduate of the spiritual direction program, Souljourners, offered at Sophia Spirituality Center. She recently made oblation at Mount St. Scholastica Monastery. Prior to her move to Kansas four years ago, Mary served as a teacher and administrator for the New York City public schools.

Friday, November 1 | 6:00 PM – Saturday, November 2 | 3:00 PM

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR SPIRITUAL DIRECTORS

Facilitated by Mary Kay Whitacre, DMin.

This will be an opportunity for improving your spiritual direction skills and connecting with peers. We will begin Friday evening by connecting with each other and sharing wisdom on a spiritual direction skill. Saturday will include peer supervision groups around your lived experiences.

Fee: $80. Register by October 27. Register online or call 913.360.6173.

Wednesday, November 6 | 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

OPEN MY EYES: The Divine Milieu with Teilhard de Chardin

Sister Susan Barber, OSB

This retreat offers a time to reflect on Teilhard de Chardin’s spiritual classic, The Divine Milieu, to look at the divine presence in all creation and explore ways to practice an ecological and inner awareness of the Incarnation.

Fee: $60 (deposit $15). Register online or call 913.360.6173.

Sister Susan Barber is a member of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica, Atchison, Kansas. She holds a certificate in spiritual formation from Catholic Theological Union, Chicago, Illinois.

Thursday, November 7 | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

COFFEE AND SILENCE

Come for the morning or bring your lunch and spend the day. We’ll have the coffee on for you. Spend time in silence, walk our beautiful grounds, or pray in St. Scholastica Chapel.

Thursday, November 7 | 10:30 a.m.

BRIDGES TO CONTEMPLATIVE LIVING with THOMAS MERTON

Mount St. Scholastica, 801 South 8th Street, Atchison, Kansas
Sisters Gabrielle Kocour & Sheila Carroll, OSB

Various selections from Thomas Merton will be used to awaken insight and wisdom for the journey toward spiritual transformation and a more peace-filled life.

Sisters Gabrielle Kocour and Sheila Carroll are members of of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and serve as adjunct staff for Sophia Spirituality Center.

Tuesday, November 12 | 10:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

READING AS A SPIRITUAL PRACTICE

Sister Jeanne d’Arc Kernion, OSB

The Displaced Person by Flannery O’Connor

Though she died in 1964 at the age of 39, Flannery O’Connor is acclaimed as one of the best writers of 20th century fiction. A woman of faith, she used fiction to show what happens when we live our lives without the most important Christian beliefs. Her writings help us wrestle with human dilemmas and her characters challenge us to move beyond a world where everything is black and white.

Her short story, The Displaced Person will be used as a vehicle for learning, discussing, trying for a better understanding of human nature, and growing in faith.

Individuals are asked to provide their own copy of the story.

Fee: $30.00, including retreat with noon meal

Sister Jeanne d’Arc Kernion has had a lengthy teaching career, most of it spent at St. Joseph Seminary College in Covington, LA, where she taught literature and served as a member of the Seminary Formation team. She has an M.A. in English from the University of Notre Dame and is a member of Mount St. Scholastica.

Thursday, November 14 | 10:30 a.m.

LECTIO WITH THE SUNDAY SCRIPTURES

Mount St. Scholastica, 801 South 8th Street, Atchison, Kansas
Sisters Gabrielle Kocour & Sheila Carroll, OSB

Share in the traditional monastic practice of guided reading, listening, reflecting and responding to the Word of God in the Scriptures.

Next date: Dec. 12

Sisters Gabrielle Kocour and Sheila Carroll are members of of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and serve as adjunct staff for Sophia Spirituality Center.

November 19 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

PRAYERFUL PAUSES – Praying with Our Deceased Loved Ones in the Communion of Saints

Facilitated by Mary Kay Whitacre, DMin.

Remembering the stories of our deceased loved ones keeps their love alive. Let’s talk about how they touched our lives and how we are giving witness to their influence today. The day will begin with spiritual sharing and joining the sisters in the monastery for lunch. The afternoon will be your time. You may continue the spiritual experience from the morning, relax into silence and contemplation, and basically grow closer to yourself and to God.

Fee: $30; includes program and lunch. (Special rates available for groups from the same church staff. Scholarships available.)

Thursday, November 21 | 9:30 – 3:30 p.m.

A DAY WITH THE POETRY OF NATIVE AMERICAN POET JOY HARJO

Renee Neff-Clark

Spend the day with the works of poet Joy Harjo, exploring her life and her writings. Joy Harjo is a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and frequently draws on First Nation storytelling and histories in her poems and writings. A critically-acclaimed poet who was just named Poet Laureate for the United States, the first Native American to be so-designated, she is also a noted teacher and musician. Her poetry challenges yet helps heal the divide both within and without. Spend time in learning, prayer and sharing with one another.

Fee: $65; lunch included. Register by November 11. Register online

Renee Neff-Clark has been a lover of all types of literature and cultures different from her own since she learned to read. Her first job in high school was working in her city’s public library. She has a degree in Religious Studies from the University of Kansas where she began to examine all forms of the written word, as well as looking at women’s lives through the lens of sociology, women’s studies, art, theology and literature.

Thursday, November 21 | 10:30 a.m.

BRIDGES TO CONTEMPLATIVE LIVING with THOMAS MERTON

Mount St. Scholastica, 801 South 8th Street, Atchison, Kansas
Sisters Gabrielle Kocour & Sheila Carroll, OSB

Various selections from Thomas Merton will be used to awaken insight and wisdom for the journey toward spiritual transformation and a more peace-filled life.

Next date: Dec. 5

Sisters Gabrielle Kocour and Sheila Carroll are members of of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and serve as adjunct staff for Sophia Spirituality Center.

Friday, November 22 | 7:00 p.m. – Sunday, November 24 | 4:00 p.m.

ENNEAGRAM WORKSHOP – Filled – waiting list

Sister Therese Elias, OSB

The Enneagram, rooted in the ancient Christian desert tradition, can be a powerful spiritual tool for understanding one’s personality and relationships, and for growing in compassion for one’s self and others.Remaining faithful to the age-old method of oral and visual instruction, we will emphasize the participant’s search for self-identification.

Limited to 13 participants. Fee: $225; includes a private room and meals (Non-refundable $45 deposit)

Sister Therese Elias, OSB, M.A., of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica, is a retreat director, spiritual advisor and lecturer with specialities in Benedictine and Celtic spirituality, the mystics, and contemplative prayer. She has led numerous pilgrimages to Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

Saturday, November 23 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

GRIEF THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS

Sister Susan Holmes, OSB

This workshop is for persons who have experienced the death of a loved one and who realize that grief is different around holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Similarities and uniqueness of grief experiences will be explored. There will be time for some personal sharing. Ideas and suggestions for coping with each of these holidays will be discussed.

Sister Susan Holmes has been a hospice chaplain/bereavement coordinator for 16 years.

Saturday, November 23 | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

GETAWAY FOR SELF-RENEWAL – 1 opening

Sister Linda Zahner, OSB

Limited to 5 participants.

Fee: $75, lunch included ($35 non-refundable deposit)

Tuesday, November 26, 6:45 PM

MONTHLY BOOK DISCUSSION

Mount St. Scholastica, 801 South 8th Street, Atchison, Kansas
Sisters Gabrielle Kocour, OSB & Sheila Carroll, OSB

Maybe, Someday by Colleen Hoover

Join us for a good read and stimulating discussion.

DECEMBER

Thursday, December 5 | 10:30 a.m.

BRIDGES TO CONTEMPLATIVE LIVING with THOMAS MERTON

Mount St. Scholastica, 801 South 8th Street, Atchison, Kansas
Sisters Gabrielle Kocour & Sheila Carroll, OSB

Various selections from Thomas Merton will be used to awaken insight and wisdom for the journey toward spiritual transformation and a more peace-filled life.

Sisters Gabrielle Kocour and Sheila Carroll are members of of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and serve as adjunct staff for Sophia Spirituality Center.

Friday, December 6 | 7:00 p.m. – Saturday, December 7 | 4:30 p.m.

Sister Mary Pat Johnson, SCL

ENTERING INTO THE SEASON OF ADVENT LIGHT

This silent weekend retreat will explore ways the light of Christ touches our daily lives during the season of Advent. Times for personal prayer and small group faith sharing will be provided.

Fee: $150; includes a private room and meals ($40 non-refundable deposit)
Register by November 28. Register online or call 913.360.6173.

Mary Pat Johnson, is a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth, Kansas. She has many years experience in the classroom and as a spiritual director. She received a BA in theology from the University of St. Mary, Leavenworth, Kansas; an MA in religious studies from Gonzaga University, and an MA in Christian spirituality with certification in spiritual direction from Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska. Presently, Sister Mary Pat serves on the staff of Souljourners’, a certification program for spiritual directors in Atchison, Kansas.

Saturday, December 7 | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

GETAWAY FOR SELF-RENEWAL

Sister Linda Zahner, OSB

Limited to 5 participants.

Fee: $75, lunch included ($35 non-refundable deposit)

Wednesday, December 11 | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

COFFEE AND SILENCE

Come for the morning or bring your lunch and spend the day. We’ll have the coffee on for you. Spend time in silence, walk our beautiful grounds, or pray in St. Scholastica Chapel.

Registration required. Register online or call 913.360.6173.

Thursday, December 12 | 10:30 a.m.

LECTIO WITH THE SUNDAY SCRIPTURES

Mount St. Scholastica, 801 South 8th Street, Atchison, Kansas
Sisters Gabrielle Kocour & Sheila Carroll, OSB

Share in the traditional monastic practice of guided reading, listening, reflecting and responding to the Word of God in the Scriptures.

Sisters Gabrielle Kocour and Sheila Carroll are members of of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica and serve as adjunct staff for Sophia Spirituality Center.

Friday, December 13 | 7:00 p.m. – Saturday, December 14 | 3:30 p.m.

FINDING THE SACRED THROUGH DEPRESSION

Sharon Highberger

Sharon Highberger shares an inspired pathway out of clinical depression. Hear her story and learn from her experience how the deepening of spiritual practices can help one find new hope and discover a path to the God of grace and compassion.

Fee: $140, includes private room and meals ($75 non-refundable deposit)

Sharon Highberger is a chaplain, grief counselor, spiritual director, author and a Benedictine oblate of Mount St. Scholastica.

December 17 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

PRAYERFUL PAUSES – Advent Into Christmas

Facilitated by Mary Kay Whitacre, DMin.

This season is so full of memorable and loving moments. Join us to savor and celebrate the joy of this season before it slips away too soon. The day will begin with spiritual sharing and joining the sisters in the monastery for lunch. The afternoon will be your time. You may continue the spiritual experience from the morning, relax into silence and contemplation, and basically grow closer to yourself and to God.

Fee: $30; includes program and lunch. (Special rates available for groups from the same church staff. Scholarships available.) Register by December 14. Register online or call 913.360.6173.

2020

JANUARY

Friday, January 10 | 7:00 p.m. – Sunday, January 12 | 4:00 p.m.

ENNEAGRAM WORKSHOP — waiting list only

Sister Therese Elias, OSB

Limited to 13 participants. Fee: $225; includes a private room and meals (Non-refundable $45 deposit)

Sister Therese Elias, OSB, M.A., of the Benedictine Sister of Mount St. Scholastica, is a retreat director, spiritual advisor and lecturer with specialities in Benedictine and Celtic spirituality, the mystics, and contemplative prayer. She has led numerous pilgrimages to Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

Saturday, January 11 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

HEALING OILS OF SACRED SCRIPTURE

Sister Linda Zahner, OSB

Ancient priests, prophets, and physicians of the Bible anointed people with oil and prayed with them for spiritual purification, moral repentance, physical healing, and holy anointing. You will be introduced to fourteen essential oils mentioned repeatedly in the Bible.

Fee: $80; includes the noon meal (Non-refundable $40 deposit). Register by January 1.

Sister Linda Zahner, OSB, M.A., is a certified Eden Energy Medicine Practitioner as well as a certified, licensed massage therapist. She also serves as a spiritual director, with certification in spiritual direction through the Creighton Spirituality program.

January 21 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

PRAYERFUL PAUSES – Sabbath Time

Facilitated by Mary Kay Whitacre, DMin.

Sabbath is about taking a break from your ordinary day-to-day life for adventure. It is about breaking the cycle of stress in this crazy world to renew your energy and creativity. The day will begin with spiritual sharing and joining the sisters in the monastery for lunch. The afternoon will be your time. You may continue the spiritual experience from the morning, relax into silence and contemplation, and basically grow closer to yourself and to God.

Fee: $30; includes program and lunch. (Special rates available for groups from the same church staff. Scholarships available.) Register by January 18. Register online or call 913.360.6173.

Friday, January 24 | 4:00 p.m. – Saturday, January 25 | 2:30 p.m.

COLLEGE RETREAT: For college students by college students

Sabbath is about taking a break from your own day-to-day life for adventure. It is about breaking the cycle of stress in this crazy world to renew your energy and creativity. It is about treating yourself to the rest you deserve. Let’s talk about how we can give ourselves Sabbath time during this New Year. Area college students are invited to explore together how to live more mindfully and peacefully amidst the stresses of their college years. This will be a great opportunity to laugh, rest, share and connect with God and others.

Fee: $35; includes room/meals (scholarships available)
Register by January 21. Register online or call 913.360.6173.

Friday, January 31 | 6:00 PM – Saturday, February 1 | 3:00 PM

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR SPIRITUAL DIRECTORS

Facilitated by Mary Kay Whitacre, DMin.

Fee: $80. Register by January 27. Register online or call 913.360.6173.

FEBRUARY

February 18 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

PRAYERFUL PAUSES – Making Lent a Time of Renewal

Facilitated by Mary Kay Whitacre, DMin.

With Lent right around the corner, what needs to be reawakened in your soul? Let’s share practical ideas for making the most of this season, so we can really experience the rebirth of Spring/Easter. We begin with spiritual sharing and joining the sisters in the monastery for lunch. The afternoon will be your time. You may continue the spiritual experience from the morning, relax into silence and contemplation, and basically grow closer to yourself and to God.

Fee: $30; includes program and lunch. (Special rates available for groups from the same church staff. Scholarships available.) Register by February 15. Register online or call 913.360.6173.

Wednesday, February 26 | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

ASH WEDNESDAY and COFFEE AND SILENCE

Come for the morning or bring your lunch and spend the day. We’ll have the coffee on for you. Spend time in silence, walk our beautiful grounds, or pray in St. Scholastica Chapel.

February 28 – March 1 with Sister Maureen Conroy, RSM

Friday, February 28 | 9:00 a.m, – 4:00 p.m. – for anyone who is interested

EXPAND YOUR BRAIN, TRANSFORM YOUR MIND!!! The Healing Power of Mindfulness and Meditation

Do you at times find yourself obsessing, fragmented, unfocused, and even frantic? Do you sometimes rush around too much, hold your breath, feel you cannot keep up with life’s pace?

We can calm down our hectic life and frantic mind by harmonizing the left and right hemispheres of our brain and moving into deeper levels of consciousness by the practices of mindfulness and meditation.

Come, learn about, and experience the healing power of mindfulness and meditation as ways to expand our brain, calm our nervous system, heal our body, live in the present moment, and experience the fullness of life that God offers us each day.

Fee: $125, includes retreat and noon meal; $185, includes Thursday overnight and Friday breakfast

Friday, February 28 | 7:00 p.m. – Sunday, March 1 | 12:30 p.m. – for spiritual directors, counselors, therapists

HEALING OUR WOUNDED SELF, RETURNING TO OUR ORIGINAL WHOLENESS: Gift of Prayer and Spiritual Direction

We are enormously blessed! We are made in the image and likeness of God. Our core self is an imprint of divine love. But, for many reasons we experience woundedness of body, mind and spirit. However, our prayer and inner process can help us to embrace our wounds and allow God to restore us to our original wholeness.

In an atmosphere of prayer and contemplative presence, we will invite our loving Creator to heal our woundedness and deepen our journey toward wholeness. Areas we will consider are:

Healing our inner child
God embracing our woundedness
Healing crippling shame
Generational healing: healing family systems
Healing the future
Holiness is Wholeness
The healing power of prayer and meditation
Being a compassionate presence

Come and experience deep inner healing yourself and learn holistic and prayerful ways to help others to be whole, healed, joyful, and free!!!! You will receive a helpful handout of information and meditation techniques for ongoing healing in your daily life.

Fee: $400, includes retreat, meals, 2 overnights; commuters – $320, includes meals, no overnight

Sister Maureen Conroy, RSM, D. Min. is co-director of the Upper Room Spiritual Center in Neptune, N.J. Her ministries include spiritual direction, the education of spiritual directors, directed retreats, and workshops on spiritual direction, supervision of spiritual directors, discernment and holistic spirituality. She is the author of five books, including A Discerning Heart and Looking Into the Well.

MARCH

Sunday, March 8 | 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

A LENTEN RETREAT FOR CATHOLIC WOMEN: Transforming Our World

Mary Kay Whitacre, D.Min.

What can we as Catholic women do to be sources of healing in the face of so much pain and suffering today? How can we be the loving presence of Christ for others? Can we make a difference? The day begins with Mass with the sisters of Mount St. Scholastica in the beautiful blue Choir Chapel. Afterwards, the retreat time will focus on how we can be instruments of transformation in our hurting world.

Lunch included. Donations accepted. Register online or call 913.360.6173.

Mary Kay Whitacre, D.Min, is on staff at Sophia Center and has many years of experience in pastoral ministry.

Wednesday, March 11 | 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

WOMEN IN SCRIPTURE: Models of Sacrifice

You are invited to spend the day with two women in Scripture, Esther and Judith, who were willing to make great sacrifices for their community. We will examine both books, Esther and Judith, comparing and contrasting the two women for whom they are named, while also learning more about what it means to make a “sacrifice” for one’s community. We will spend time in learning, prayer, and discussion while connecting with these Biblical women’s stories and with one another.

Fee: $65, lunch included. Register by March 1. Register online or call 913.360.6173.

Renee Neff-Clark has a degree in Religious Studies and has been a student of the Bible and a leader of Bible Studies throughout her life.The stories of women in Scripture have always held a special place in her heart, as they represent and reflect the lives of all women, both then and now.

Friday, March 13 | 7:00 p.m. – Sunday, March 15 | 400: p.m.

EVERYWHERE A BLESSING: A Celtic Retreat

Sister Therese Elias, OSB

This retreat is not just for the Irish, Scottish, or Breton, but for all who search for God in the ordinary and the everyday. In true Celtic fashion, we will celebrate the goodness of creation, the nearness of the saints, and the power of the Trinity. Presentations will utilize ancient poetry, art, song, storytelling and Celtic Christianity’s beautiful legacy of prayers and blessings. (Bring your journal)

Cost: $26o; includes a private room and meals ($50 non-refundable deposit)

Sister Therese Elias, OSB, is a member of the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica, Atchison, Kansas. She is a retreat director, spiritual advisor, and lecturer with specialties in Celtic spirituality, the mystics, Benedictine spirituality, and contemplative prayer. She has led numerous pilgrimmages to Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

March 17 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

PRAYERFUL PAUSES – The Holy Men of March

Facilitated by Mary Kay Whitacre, DMin.

During March we celebrate the feasts of three special men – St. Patrick, St. Joseph, and St. Benedict. Let’s listen for their sacred wisdom and join them in prayer and celebration. The day will begin with spiritual sharing and joining the sisters in the monastery for lunch. The afternoon will be your time. You may continue the spiritual experience from the morning, relax into silence and contemplation, and basically grow closer to yourself and to God.

Fee: $30; includes program and lunch. (Special rates available for groups from the same church staff. Scholarships available.) Register by March 13. Register online or call 913.360.6173.

Friday, March 27 | 7:00 p.m. – Saturday, March 28 | 4:00 p.m.

SEEKING THE SOUL OF THE WORLD: The Poetry of Mary Oliver

Judith Valente

Perhaps more than any other contemporary poet, Mary Oliver sought to uncover what Bernard of Clairvaux called “the real behind the real.” Her explorations of nature, her insights into human nature, and her uncanny ability to detect the hidden wholeness and spirit within creation bring us not only into contact with “the soul of the world,” but with the very nature of God. Using her poems as guides, we will explore refreshing our spirits, deepening our kinship with all of creation, and answering the challenge her poetry poses to us all: “What is it you plan to do/ with your one wild precious life?”

Fee: $150.00 (private room, breakfast and dinner on Saturday)

Commuters: $125 (Friday night and Saturday presentations, Saturday noon meal)

Saturday only: $100 (includes Saturday noon meal)

($50 non-refundable deposit)

Judith Valente is the author of four spirituality titles, including Atchison Blue: A Search for Silence A Spiritual Home and a Living Faith; The Art of Pausing; and How to Live: What the Rule of St. Benedict Teaches Us About Happiness, Meaning and Community. She is also the author of two collections of poetry and leads frequent retreats on living a more contemplative life.

APRIL

Thursday, April 9 | 3:00 p.m. to Sunday, April 12 | 1:00 p.m.

TRIDUUM RETREAT

Spend the Triduum immersed in the beautiful liturgies and profound silence of the monastery which then culminates in the joyous celebration of Easter. The retreat begins with an orientation before the monastic Holy Thursday banquet, continues through the powerful liturgies of the foot washing and Mass of the Lord’s Supper; the moving rituals of Good Friday, and a full celebration of the Easter Vigil, and ends with the Easter Eucharist and festive dinner.

Fee: $240.00; includes a private room and meals. (Non-refundable deposit of $50)
Register by March 31. Register online or by calling 913-360-6173

Wednesday, April 15 | 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

WOMEN IN SCRIPTURE: Women of the House Churches: Models of Leadership

You are invited to spend the day with the women who were an integral part of the beginning of Christianity, yet whose contributions are not generally known. We will examine who these women were and what their roles were in this crucial time following the death and resurrection of Jesus. Come spend time in learning, prayer and sharing, while connecting with these women leaders of the past and with one another.

Fee: $65; lunch included. Register by April 5. Register online or call 913.360.6173.

Renee Neff-Clark has a degree in Religious Studies and has been a student of the Bible and a leader of Bible Studies throughout her life. The stories of women in Scripture have always held a special place in her heart, as they represent and reflect the lives of all women, both then and now.

April 21 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

PRAYERFUL PAUSES – Sacred Art in a Circle

Facilitated by Mary Kay Whitacre, DMin.

Do you ever feel like you are going in circles? Let’s explore how we can use mandalas – sacred art in a circle to break that cycle of stress. The day will begin with spiritual sharing and joining the sisters in the monastery for lunch. The afternoon will be your time. You may continue the spiritual experience from the morning, relax into silence and contemplation, and basically grow closer to yourself and to God.

Fee: $30; includes program and lunch. (Special rates available for groups from the same church staff. Scholarships available.) Register by April 14. Register online or call 913.360.6173.

MAY

Saturday, May 2 | 1:00 – 5:00 p.m.

MINISTERING TO BODY, MIND AND SPIRIT

Sister Linda Zahner, OSB

This workshop is for everyone interested in learning how to use the brillance and wisdom of the body’s energies for wellness and wholeness.

Come and learn how to unlock the secrets of this medicine that is a vital key to health, vitality and well-being.

Fee: $50 ($10 non-refundable deposit)
Register by April 21. Register online or by calling 913-360-6173

JUNE

June 26-28

BEING BENEDICTINE IN THE 21ST CENTURY: Spiritual Seekers in Conversation

Being Benedictine in the 21st Century: Spiritual Seekers in Conversation, planned for June 26-28, 2020, in Atchison, Kansas, marks a first-ever gathering of professed Benedictines, Oblates, staff, volunteers, friends and benefactors of Benedictine ministries and monasteries, and any seeker who has read the Rule of St. Benedict and experienced a conversion of heart. We will hear from speakers including Benedictine Sister Joan Chittister, one of our visionary spiritual voices, and Oblate authors Kathleen Norris and Judith Valente and engage in facilitated conversation and idea generation. We will put special emphasis on inviting the participation of Millenials, people in their twenties and thirties who often eschew formal religion but still seek an authentic experience of faith in action.

Sophia Center will host this event but all registrations will be done through the website “beingbenedictine.org“. Please check the website “beingbenedictine.org” for more information about the conference and sign up to receive information about registering and reserving a room for the conference as soon as it’s available.

JULY

Tuesday, July 14 | 7:00 p.m. – Saturday, July 18 | 1:00 p.m.

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION SUPERVISION: Theory and Practice

Lucy Abbott Tucker

This workshop will provide both inputs on the ministry of spiritual direction as well as the practice of the ministry of supervision. The input will include the educational and theological basis for supervision. In addition, participants will be introduced to various models for supervision and will have opportunities to engage with them in supervised settings.

Fee: $550; includes private room and meals; Shared room – $450; Commuters – $400 ($75 non-refundable deposit)
Register by July 27 Register online or call 913.360.6173.

Lucy Abbott Tucker is one of the founders of Spiritual Directors International. She has worked in adult formation and in the preparation of people for the ministry of spiritual direction for 35 years. She studied at the Institute for Spiritual Leadership and Catholic Theological Union in Chicago where she obtained a Master Degree in Theology. Lucy worked for many years at the Institute for Spiritual Leadership in Chicago and recently served as President of the Board of Directors for that organization. In addition, Lucy has been involved in retreats and workshop throughout the United States, Europe, Australia, and Canada.

AUGUST

Tuesday, August 4 |4:00 p.m. – Sunday, August 9 |1:00 p.m.

SILENT DIRECTED RETREAT

Sophia Staff

Get away from the noise and busyness of everyday life. Spend time with God in personal prayer, meet daily with a spiritual director, and if you wish, join others for daily centering prayer and group sharing of scripture. The quiet of the monastic setting gives you time to listen to the deep desires of your heart.

Fee: $435; includes private room and meals ($75 non-refundable deposit)
Register by July 27 Register online or call 913.360.6173.

OCTOBER

Saturday, October 3 | 9:00 a.m. – Sunday, October 4 | noon

RETREAT FOR ADOPTIVE MOMS: A Retreat for Moms by Moms

Facilitated by Mary Kay Whitacre, DMin. and other moms

Were you blessed to become a mom through the process adoption? Are you looking for a way to renew and recharge your spirit so you have more to share with your family? Would you like to connect with other moms who have similar stories? This will be the perfect opportunity to rest and care for yourself while sharing the experience and wisdom of others. Bond with God and other mothers.

Fee: $85; includes room and meals. Scholarships are available.

2021

JANUARY

Friday, January 29 | 4:00 p.m. – Saturday, January 30 | 2:30 p.m.

COLLEGE RETREAT

For college students by college students

Area college students are invited to explore together how to live more mindfully and peacefully amidst the stresses of their college years. This will be a great opportunity to laugh, rest, share and connect with God and others.

Fee: $35; includes room/meals (scholarships available)

APRIL

Thursday, April 1 | 3:00 p.m. to Sunday, April 4 | 1:00 p.m.

TRIDUUM RETREAT

Spend the Triduum immersed in the beautiful liturgies and profound silence of the monastery which then culminates in the joyous celebration of Easter. The retreat begins with an orientation before the monastic Holy Thursday banquet, continues through the powerful liturgies of the foot washing and and Mass of the Lord’s Supper; the moving rituals of Good Friday, and a full celebration of the Easter Vigil, and ends with the Easter Eucharist and festive dinner.

Fee: $245.00; private room and meals. (Non-refundable deposit of $50)

OCTOBER

Saturday, October 30 | 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

SPIRITUALITY: The Call to Holiness and Wholeness

Sister Melannie Svoboda, SND

What does a healthy spirituality look like and feel like? This retreat will explore some of the traits of a healthy spirituality such as compassion, friendship, love and respect for nature, prayer, hope, balancing work and leisure, and the ability to live graciously with a certain amount of adversity and ambiguity. Using scripture, music, short videos, stories, poetry and humor, Sister Melannie will lead us in exploring God’s presence and action in our everyday lives.

Fee: $90; includes noon meal (Non-refundable $20 deposit) Scholarships available. Register by October 20. Register online or by calling 913-360-6173

Sister Melannie Svoboda, a Sister of Notre Dame, lives in Chardon, Ohio. She has an MA in English from Indiana University and an MA in Spirituality from Duquesne University. Sister has taught high school and college for many years, and ministered as novice director and provincial for her community. She is an author and a free-lance writer with articles in many publications. Currently she writes and is a popular presenter who gives talks, workshops and retreats nationally.