Evelyn is a current caregiver to her spouse, and past caregiver to both parents. She continues to learn from the honesty and grace, blessings and challenges of this ministry of love. Evelyn is a retired board-certified chaplain and certified spiritual director with a Masters in Applied Spirituality, USF
Details of this retreat
This is a retreat for caregivers, those who provide support for a beloved family member or friend. Support that is social, emotional, spiritual, personal care.
Set among the 12.5 acres of The Portland Japanese Garden recently, a friend invited me to step into the small space pictured below. “Just this”, he said. “Just this is enough" We don’t have to go into the whole garden to have the experience of tranquility and peace. We can step into small spaces and know that that will provide what we seek.
Join me for a small space retreat, a two hour treat to refresh and renew the gentle peace that resides within you as a caregiver. Sometimes the focus of caring for others leaves us yearning for a time to quietly step away from the fullness of days and the pace of multiple responsibilities.
Welcome to a small space of time to attend to your own yearning for renewal and need for blessing.
This is your time -
To feel embraced by the tenderness of God
To be refreshed by healing messages through music, poetry, prayer and silence
To know that you are not alone, that others journey with you and understand the path you travel
Customer Reviews
4.85 out of 5.0 average rating
5.0
Verified
Learning about my shadow
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!
5.0
Verified
What a blessed day!
This was indeed a blessed day for me. I loved how Sr Angela started our time with Lectio. Working outside with the group felt like prayer in action. We came back pink cheeked, glowing from exertion, and rejoicing in God's nature, community, and life. Thank you, Sr Angela.
3.0
Verified
Zentanles
The workshop offered a calming and meditative introduction to Zentangle art, with slow pace instruction that made the experience feel restorative. However, given the length of the session—from 10 AM to 3 PM—I had hoped for a bit more depth. We only explored five basic shapes to build patterns, which felt limiting considering the time investment and the vast variety of shapes used in this artform. A broader range of techniques or more complex designs would have added richness to the learning.
It’s possible that the hybrid format, with the instructor needing to move between rooms, impacted the flow and reduced opportunities for extended practice and sharing. A more centralized setup might help future sessions feel more cohesive. Additionally, providing handouts with shape variations and space for guided practice could support different learning styles and enhance engagement.
Lunch was a bit of a letdown this time. Having previously enjoyed a delicious salmon meal at the monastery, I was surprised to find the only protein option was cold cuts. The contrast made the meal feel less satisfying than expected.
That said, I’m truly grateful for the presenter, who was the heart of the experience—kind and knowledgeable. Their gentle guidance created a welcoming, stress-free environment, and their passion for Zentangle was evident throughout.
5.0
Verified
A Potent Retreat
My time at St. Placid's did not disappoint. The Sisters' hospitality was wonderful and palpable. The place is simple, quiet, beautiful. I was able to "unplug" more than I expected would be possible and was "met" in my quiet and solitude in a profound way. I shall return.
5.0
Verified
Peaceful and Restorative Place I Cherish Most in the Seattle Area
I truly love this place. The staff at the spiritual center—especially Janice—are warm, attentive, and genuinely caring toward those participating in the retreat. The presence and deep spirituality of the sisters here gently guide participants into a richer, more intimate walk with God. The facilities are clean and well-maintained, and I especially enjoy the walking path that circles the center—it’s perfect for unhurried reflection and prayer.