Contemplative Writing

My experience was one of feeling completely unplugged and at the same time completely present for a whole different pace. Kind reception, great nap, deep reading, quiet walks, meals in silence, and participating in the Psalms topped off by a bit of retail (fiber art purchases). It was pretty much perfect. Betty G

This was my first personal retreat at St. Placid, and it couldn't have come at a better time! Besides my full time work in a local church, I also provide in home care to my parents who are 95 and 96 and who both have dementia. Self care is important to those who care for others, and this time was much needed for me. The two nights and three days I spent at St. Placid were restful, tranquil, and rejuvenating. From the moment I arrived until I left, I was offered warm welcome and hospitality. The food was excellent. The sisters are all interesting conversation partners at meals. My room and facilities in the Spirituality Center were comfortable and well equipped. The grounds are beautiful in a forested location, and I was able to take walks, enjoying the Autumn colors, around the local area. You can pretty much make your personal retreat at St. Placid what you need it to be, whether it's silence, meditation, and prayer, reading or study in their wonderful library, or just a time of rest and fellowship. I plan to be back in the future!

This was my first time at St. Placid Priory and I would definitely return for another retreat. Comfortable, quiet accommodations, very clean, delicious meals served by the in house chef, if you choose to include some meals in your stay, shared kitchen for making your own meals has what is needed and breakfast items included in the kitchen! Areas outside your room for quiet - a small parlour, the "Julian room," the chapel in the main building. Large trees all around and paths for walking - beautiful grounds. Just off the Interstate and easy to access. You can join the sisters for worship if you desire. A good experience. Those coming for retreat should perhaps be aware that both women and men can be guests, should the assumption be that only women will be here on retreat.

I was frazzled from a month of intense activity and had another busy month coming up so a retreat was a perfect way to rest, redirect, recharge. The wooded setting, silence, liturgy along with the calm presence of the Sisters was a balm.

To Sister Paz Vital: I am so grateful for you and for the workshop you gave us this weekend.  I learned so much, much I didn't know or didn't understand, even after years of reading Jung and others' work about the shadow.  You took us step by step, in such a short time, into deeper understanding. You presented the information in an engaging and enlightening way, and your quick understanding and intelligence shone in every question you addressed.  I loved especially the story of the two wolves.  That is how my mind was finally opened to the necessity of feeding and attending to my shadow.  Thank you!