Christian Meditation Retreat

In-Person

Past Event

This retreat is now full. If you would like to be added to the waitlist, please email Bill Hobbs at bhobbs@jesuitretreatcenter.org

For meditators especially, it makes sense that meditation makes a difference, beginning with personal healing of inner conflict and trauma and extending into the world through our web of relationships.

In many societies today, political and religious views have become so polarized that the ability to speak to the other side has collapsed, and with that, negative silence and violence is not far away. The healing positive work of silence, on the other hand, can restore communication and hope even when things seem to be falling apart. The retreat, part of which will be silent, is suitable to those new to meditation as well as to those already practicing.

'Unified Consciousness' is the WCCM theme for this year. It has generated a rich sharing of perspectives globally which Fr Laurence will share in this retreat.

Cost

Cost with lodging: $305

Cost for commuters: $205

Optional Post-retreat session with Fr. Laurence on Sharing the Gift of Meditation: $25

Financial Aid options are also available (see below)

Schedule

Check-In: Sunday, October 9, 3:00pm

First Session: Sunday, October 9, 4:00pm

Conclusion: Lunch – Tuesday, October 11, 12:00pm

Optional Session: Tuesday, October 11, 1:00pm

Presenter

Laurence Freeman, OSB

Of Irish and English parentage, Laurence Freeman was educated by the Benedictines and studied English Literature at Oxford University. Before entering monastic life, he worked with the United Nations in New York, in Banking and in Journalism. He is Director of The World Community for Christian Meditation (WCCM), an inclusive contemplative community. He is a Benedictine monk of the Congregation of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, Italy.

He now resides at Bonnevaux, the WCCM’s international home in France, and a center for peace where meditation is practiced and taught as a way to personal and social transformation. Bonnevaux draws on a rich tradition of contemplative wisdom which our times demand.

Fr Laurence is a prolific author. His books include Light Within, The Selfless Self, Your Daily Practice, Jesus: The Teacher Within, First Sight: The Experience of Faith, Web of Silence, and Good Work: Meditation for Personal and Organizational Transformation. He has collaborated with the Dalai Lama on many dialogues and the groundbreaking book The Good Heart. In addition to his work for the contemplative renewal of Christianity, he leads dialogues and peace initiatives, seeing meditation as opening the common ground of all humanity. He was awarded the Order of Canada in recognition of his work for interfaith dialogue and the promotion of world peace. His Daily Wisdom, quarterly spiritual letter and other regular teachings online, and his retreats and conferences are sources of inspiration for many worldwide.

WCCM Books for sale at the JRC bookstore.