Silent Retreat: A Journey into Contemplative Practice

Silent Retreat: A Journey into Contemplative Practice February 15-18, 2026

In a world that rarely stops talking, silence becomes a radical act of love—toward ourselves, toward God, and toward the deepest truth of who we are.

This four-day silent retreat offers you a sacred sanctuary to step away from the constant noise and discover what emerges when you give yourself permission to simply be present. Under the guidance of four exceptional teachers, you’ll be gently introduced to time-tested contemplative practices that open doorways to a deeper, more intimate prayer life.

A Unique Collaboration of Wisdom and Art:

Experience the rare convergence of Celtic spirituality and Franciscan contemplation as world-renowned Irish harpist Áine Minogue weaves sacred music through your days, Dr. Michael Cunningham, OFS guides you into the contemplative seeing of Visio Divina and Centering Prayer, and Ann Naffziger opens the riches of Imaginative Prayer and Lectio Divina. Together with Fr. Henry Beck, they create a tapestry of prayer forms that honor both ancient wisdom and contemporary seekers.

Your Days Will Unfold in Sacred Rhythm:

Beginning Sunday evening with a gentle introduction to silence, you’ll move through days filled with guided sessions in Centering Prayer, Imaginative Prayer, Lectio Divina, and Visio Divina. Yet you remain free—free to attend group sessions or embrace solitude, free to walk the grounds or sit in stillness, free to meet with a spiritual director or simply rest in the spacious silence.

Daily Eucharist and contemplative music experiences by Áine anchor your journey, while the natural beauty of San Damiano’s 55 acres invites you into prayerful communion with creation itself. The retreat culminates on Ash Wednesday, a perfect threshold moment to carry the graces of silence into Lent and beyond.

Whether you’re newly curious about contemplative prayer or seeking to deepen an established practice, this retreat meets you exactly where you are. No experience necessary—only a willingness to listen to what silence has to teach.

Come. Be still. Discover the profound presence waiting in the quiet spaces of your heart.

Check-in begins Sunday, February 15 at 3:00 PM. The retreat concludes Wednesday, February 18 after lunch.