"I listened to God's deep dream for me and felt a longing to respond."
Mary Ward
January 1585 - January 1645
Mary Ward
January 1585 - January 1645
2026 Retreats & Events
Silent Directed Retreats
Private Rooms, Home Cooked Vegetarian meals, Spiritual Direction
8-Day: Apr 23-30, July 14 to 19-21*, July 23-30, Oct. 15-22
$1325 Ensuite, $1200 Standard
Arrival from 3pm for Opening Gathering at 5:30pm, Departure 1pm after lunch
*We are pleased to share that due to high demand for 8-Day Retreats this summer, we are offering an opportunity to lengthen our July 6-Day Silent Retreat to 8 Days in length if desired (July 14 to 19-21)!
Email [email protected] to arrange your details.
6-Day: Mar 17-22, July 7-12
$980 Ensuite, $880 Standard
Arrival from 3pm for Opening Gathering at 5:30pm, Departure 1pm after lunch
3-Day: May 5-7, June 16-18, Sep 29-Oct 1, Nov 10-12
$450 Private
Arrival from 10am for Opening at Gathering 11:30am - Departure 1pm after lunch
Themed Retreats
Private, Shared Rooms or Commuter option, Home Cooked Vegetarian meals
Arrival from 3pm for Opening Gathering at 5:30pm, Departure 1pm after lunch
Mar 27-29, Writing from the Soul's Well, Stephanie Romiti, $550 Private, $450 Shared, $375 Commuter
Treat yourself to a quiet weekend away on the beautiful shores of Lake Simcoe and immerse yourself in your very own writing time. Group sessions during this silent retreat will offer approaches to the spiritual practice of journaling, consider its benefits, give encouragement for roadblocks, and offer a variety of writing exercises,* with ample time for your own reflection and writing. You will take home resources to support your writing long after the retreat ends, whether for spiritual memoir or personal journaling as a regular practice. Embrace writing as a sacred transformational tool for your self-care and spiritual journey.
Back by popular demand: Facilitator Stephanie Romiti
May 1-3, Sacred Art Retreat, Nadine Crescenzi, $550 Private, $450 Shared, $375 Commuter
Nadine Crescenzi is an art therapist whose work is rooted in the belief that creativity is a powerful pathway to healing, self-discovery, soul connection and emotional freedom. With a gentle presence and intuitive approach, Nadine guides individuals through the artistic process helping connect to one's inner wisdom, releasing tension and reconnect the body, mind, heart, and spirit. Together with Loretto Maryholme, Nadine invites you into a sacred art retreat where artistic expression becomes a contemplative pathway inward—offering restoration, and a renewed sense of presence. Throughout our time together, you will be guided through reflective practices, mindful creations, and shared moments of silence and connection. As you create, reflect, write, or simply observe, you’ll be encouraged to listen closely to the gentle whispers of your heart, create space for your feelings, and believe in the creative potential to transform. May this retreat offer you clarity, restoration, and a renewed sense of presence. May it open spaciousness within your body, potential in your mind, harmony in your heart, and joy in your spirit and may each moment of creativity offer you the possibility of transformation — your journey inward begins here. You do not need to consider yourself an artist for this retreat.
Nadine Crescenzi is an art therapist whose work is rooted in the belief that creativity is a powerful pathway to healing, self-discovery, soul connection and emotional freedom. With a gentle presence and intuitive approach, Nadine guides individuals through the artistic process helping connect to one's inner wisdom, releasing tension and reconnect the body, mind, heart, and spirit.
Private Rooms, Home Cooked Vegetarian meals, Spiritual Direction
8-Day: Apr 23-30, July 14 to 19-21*, July 23-30, Oct. 15-22
$1325 Ensuite, $1200 Standard
Arrival from 3pm for Opening Gathering at 5:30pm, Departure 1pm after lunch
*We are pleased to share that due to high demand for 8-Day Retreats this summer, we are offering an opportunity to lengthen our July 6-Day Silent Retreat to 8 Days in length if desired (July 14 to 19-21)!
Email [email protected] to arrange your details.
6-Day: Mar 17-22, July 7-12
$980 Ensuite, $880 Standard
Arrival from 3pm for Opening Gathering at 5:30pm, Departure 1pm after lunch
3-Day: May 5-7, June 16-18, Sep 29-Oct 1, Nov 10-12
$450 Private
Arrival from 10am for Opening at Gathering 11:30am - Departure 1pm after lunch
Themed Retreats
Private, Shared Rooms or Commuter option, Home Cooked Vegetarian meals
Arrival from 3pm for Opening Gathering at 5:30pm, Departure 1pm after lunch
Mar 27-29, Writing from the Soul's Well, Stephanie Romiti, $550 Private, $450 Shared, $375 Commuter
Treat yourself to a quiet weekend away on the beautiful shores of Lake Simcoe and immerse yourself in your very own writing time. Group sessions during this silent retreat will offer approaches to the spiritual practice of journaling, consider its benefits, give encouragement for roadblocks, and offer a variety of writing exercises,* with ample time for your own reflection and writing. You will take home resources to support your writing long after the retreat ends, whether for spiritual memoir or personal journaling as a regular practice. Embrace writing as a sacred transformational tool for your self-care and spiritual journey.
Back by popular demand: Facilitator Stephanie Romiti
May 1-3, Sacred Art Retreat, Nadine Crescenzi, $550 Private, $450 Shared, $375 Commuter
Nadine Crescenzi is an art therapist whose work is rooted in the belief that creativity is a powerful pathway to healing, self-discovery, soul connection and emotional freedom. With a gentle presence and intuitive approach, Nadine guides individuals through the artistic process helping connect to one's inner wisdom, releasing tension and reconnect the body, mind, heart, and spirit. Together with Loretto Maryholme, Nadine invites you into a sacred art retreat where artistic expression becomes a contemplative pathway inward—offering restoration, and a renewed sense of presence. Throughout our time together, you will be guided through reflective practices, mindful creations, and shared moments of silence and connection. As you create, reflect, write, or simply observe, you’ll be encouraged to listen closely to the gentle whispers of your heart, create space for your feelings, and believe in the creative potential to transform. May this retreat offer you clarity, restoration, and a renewed sense of presence. May it open spaciousness within your body, potential in your mind, harmony in your heart, and joy in your spirit and may each moment of creativity offer you the possibility of transformation — your journey inward begins here. You do not need to consider yourself an artist for this retreat.
Nadine Crescenzi is an art therapist whose work is rooted in the belief that creativity is a powerful pathway to healing, self-discovery, soul connection and emotional freedom. With a gentle presence and intuitive approach, Nadine guides individuals through the artistic process helping connect to one's inner wisdom, releasing tension and reconnect the body, mind, heart, and spirit.
Oct 23-25, Caregivers’ Retreat, Michelle O'Rourke, $550 Private, $450 Shared, $375 Commuter
Step into a gentle sanctuary created especially for caregivers. This spiritual retreat offers space to rest, be nourished, reflect, and reconnect with your inner wellspring. Through gentle reflections, solitude in nature, and compassionate sharing circles, you’ll find ways to release accumulated stress and rediscover your soul-connection. Nourishing meals and restorative practices in our sacred silence by the lake, support deep renewal of body, heart, and spirit. Whether you care for a loved one at home or offer care in another setting, this retreat honours your service while attending to your own well-being. Leave feeling grounded, replenished, and spiritually supported, carrying renewed strength back into your daily life with compassion and grace.
Facilitator: Michelle O'Rourke
Michelle O’Rourke RN MA’s extensive background includes Emergency Nursing, Hospice Palliative Care and Pastoral Ministry. Thesis work led to her publishing Befriending Death: Henri Nouwen and a Spirituality of Dying (Orbis) and Embracing the End of Life: Help for Those Who Accompany the Dying. (revised edition coming: 2026, Novalis). She eventually helped design, build and open the Chatham-Kent Hospice in 2016 before retiring to focus on writing and consulting. A sought-after speaker, Michelle’s third book –Healthy Caregiving: Perspectives for Caring Professionals, in company with Henri J.M. Nouwen (Novalis)– reminds us how to care for ourselves when we care for others. She is a Trustee with the Henri Nouwen Legacy Trust and has studied Henri’s writings extensively.
Learn more about Michelle at www.selahresources.ca
Loretto Maryholme’s Director, Yvonne, met Michelle at a retreat Michelle attended for her own nourishment. She was moved by Michelle’s warmth, compassion and wisdom. She is an astute and caring woman, who has reflected deeply on her wealth of experience. We are so pleased to bring her to Maryholme to help other caregivers.
Step into a gentle sanctuary created especially for caregivers. This spiritual retreat offers space to rest, be nourished, reflect, and reconnect with your inner wellspring. Through gentle reflections, solitude in nature, and compassionate sharing circles, you’ll find ways to release accumulated stress and rediscover your soul-connection. Nourishing meals and restorative practices in our sacred silence by the lake, support deep renewal of body, heart, and spirit. Whether you care for a loved one at home or offer care in another setting, this retreat honours your service while attending to your own well-being. Leave feeling grounded, replenished, and spiritually supported, carrying renewed strength back into your daily life with compassion and grace.
Facilitator: Michelle O'Rourke
Michelle O’Rourke RN MA’s extensive background includes Emergency Nursing, Hospice Palliative Care and Pastoral Ministry. Thesis work led to her publishing Befriending Death: Henri Nouwen and a Spirituality of Dying (Orbis) and Embracing the End of Life: Help for Those Who Accompany the Dying. (revised edition coming: 2026, Novalis). She eventually helped design, build and open the Chatham-Kent Hospice in 2016 before retiring to focus on writing and consulting. A sought-after speaker, Michelle’s third book –Healthy Caregiving: Perspectives for Caring Professionals, in company with Henri J.M. Nouwen (Novalis)– reminds us how to care for ourselves when we care for others. She is a Trustee with the Henri Nouwen Legacy Trust and has studied Henri’s writings extensively.
Learn more about Michelle at www.selahresources.ca
Loretto Maryholme’s Director, Yvonne, met Michelle at a retreat Michelle attended for her own nourishment. She was moved by Michelle’s warmth, compassion and wisdom. She is an astute and caring woman, who has reflected deeply on her wealth of experience. We are so pleased to bring her to Maryholme to help other caregivers.
Oct 30-Nov 1, Writing Your Sacred Story, Stephanie Romiti, $550 Private, $450 Shared, $375 Commuter
“Invariably spiritual memoir places one’s life in relationship to something greater, whether that something be God or oneness or the earth...”*
“What is the source of my existence? What makes me tick? What gives me breath, hope, or inspiration?” *
Spiritual memoir and journaling take up the subject of your own life to explore such questions. A variety of exercises will be offered** for whichever purpose you choose for your writing. In addition, we will explore some foundational information for spiritual writing, including aids for potential challenges. This gently paced weekend will have some guided sessions and spacious time for personal reflection and writing.
Back by popular demand: Facilitator Stephanie Romiti
*Quotes from Elizabeth Jarrett Andrew **All writing exercises will be new
“Invariably spiritual memoir places one’s life in relationship to something greater, whether that something be God or oneness or the earth...”*
“What is the source of my existence? What makes me tick? What gives me breath, hope, or inspiration?” *
Spiritual memoir and journaling take up the subject of your own life to explore such questions. A variety of exercises will be offered** for whichever purpose you choose for your writing. In addition, we will explore some foundational information for spiritual writing, including aids for potential challenges. This gently paced weekend will have some guided sessions and spacious time for personal reflection and writing.
Back by popular demand: Facilitator Stephanie Romiti
*Quotes from Elizabeth Jarrett Andrew **All writing exercises will be new
Nov 13-15, Men’s Spirituality Retreat, Dan Leckman, $550 Private, $450 Shared, $375 Commuter
Explore how you can actively nurture your interior life… through reflection and prayer, and daily acts of tenderness, resilience, purpose, and authenticity. The intention of this weekend is to create a space where men can be in a supportive environment to be with the holy; explore (through reflection, prayer and conversation) your own sense of what the “holy” really is about for you; and find support for the journey.
Dan Leckman, s.j., is a sought-after spiritual director and long-time retreat leader. He is a man who knows joy and suffering; and has deep compassion that informs his varied relationships and his world-view. His wide range of interests include Russian studies, community economic development, and supporting First Nations communities. He is also fluent in French. Dan chose to be a Jesuit brother, rather than priest, because he is naturally drawn to be a brother to many men and women.
Nov 19-22, Releasing Grief with Gentle Yoga, Vivian Palin, $650 Private, $560 Shared, $425 Commuter
This mostly-silent retreat is designed to support participants in getting free of long-held or recent grief. We carry grief until it has a means to move through us. Whether we haven’t felt safe enough to explore these feelings, or we’ve been too busy to give them time, grief is stored until we release it. (Time alone does not heal all wounds.) In Maryholme’s beauty and a calm environment of trust, gentle yoga and other safe practices will enable us to access emotion that is ready to surface. Our spirit can become lighter. Clarity and freedom are possible. Renewed energy and hope are available.
Facilitator: Vivian Palin, is back by popular demand
Dec 4-6, Tidings of Comfort and Joy, Advent Retreat, Yvonne Prowse, $550 Private, $450 Shared, $375 Commuter
A silent retreat with brief reflections and suggestions for prayer.
Facilitator: Yvonne Prowse, Director of Loretto Maryholme
Explore how you can actively nurture your interior life… through reflection and prayer, and daily acts of tenderness, resilience, purpose, and authenticity. The intention of this weekend is to create a space where men can be in a supportive environment to be with the holy; explore (through reflection, prayer and conversation) your own sense of what the “holy” really is about for you; and find support for the journey.
Dan Leckman, s.j., is a sought-after spiritual director and long-time retreat leader. He is a man who knows joy and suffering; and has deep compassion that informs his varied relationships and his world-view. His wide range of interests include Russian studies, community economic development, and supporting First Nations communities. He is also fluent in French. Dan chose to be a Jesuit brother, rather than priest, because he is naturally drawn to be a brother to many men and women.
Nov 19-22, Releasing Grief with Gentle Yoga, Vivian Palin, $650 Private, $560 Shared, $425 Commuter
This mostly-silent retreat is designed to support participants in getting free of long-held or recent grief. We carry grief until it has a means to move through us. Whether we haven’t felt safe enough to explore these feelings, or we’ve been too busy to give them time, grief is stored until we release it. (Time alone does not heal all wounds.) In Maryholme’s beauty and a calm environment of trust, gentle yoga and other safe practices will enable us to access emotion that is ready to surface. Our spirit can become lighter. Clarity and freedom are possible. Renewed energy and hope are available.
Facilitator: Vivian Palin, is back by popular demand
Dec 4-6, Tidings of Comfort and Joy, Advent Retreat, Yvonne Prowse, $550 Private, $450 Shared, $375 Commuter
A silent retreat with brief reflections and suggestions for prayer.
Facilitator: Yvonne Prowse, Director of Loretto Maryholme
Stay tuned to our website and social media for additions & updates
No taxes charged on prices
To register please email [email protected]
Private Retreats
A private retreat, minimum 2 nights, may be booked throughout the year, depending on availability of accommodation. You are responsible for your own meals. You will set your agenda & schedule and enjoy a posture of silence & prayer throughout your stay. If the experience of a private retreat is new for you, we suggest that you meet with a spiritual director at least once during your stay.
Register for private retreats by emailing: [email protected]
Loretto Maryholme Spirituality Centre
CANCELLATION POLICY
If you need to cancel a booking, the following terms apply:
Individual Private Personal Retreats & Day Use Groups:
● Cancellations made one month or more before arrival:
● Full refund, minus a $75 administration fee.
● Cancellations made less than one month before arrival:
● A credit (valid for 12 months), minus a $75 administration fee.
Overnight Groups:
● Cancellations made four months or more before arrival:
● Full deposit refund, minus a $75 administration fee.
● Cancellations made less than four months before arrival:
● 50% deposit refund, minus a $75 administration fee.
● If another group books your canceled date(s),
● we will gladly refund your deposit, minus a $75 administration fee.
Loretto Maryholme Retreat & Program Registrations:
● Cancellations made one month or more before arrival:
● Full refund, minus a $75 administration fee.
● Cancellations made less than one month before arrival:
● A credit (valid for 12 months), minus the food portion of the registration fee (calculated per retreat) and a $75 administration fee.
Individual Private Personal Retreats & Day Use Groups:
● Cancellations made one month or more before arrival:
● Full refund, minus a $75 administration fee.
● Cancellations made less than one month before arrival:
● A credit (valid for 12 months), minus a $75 administration fee.
Overnight Groups:
● Cancellations made four months or more before arrival:
● Full deposit refund, minus a $75 administration fee.
● Cancellations made less than four months before arrival:
● 50% deposit refund, minus a $75 administration fee.
● If another group books your canceled date(s),
● we will gladly refund your deposit, minus a $75 administration fee.
Loretto Maryholme Retreat & Program Registrations:
● Cancellations made one month or more before arrival:
● Full refund, minus a $75 administration fee.
● Cancellations made less than one month before arrival:
● A credit (valid for 12 months), minus the food portion of the registration fee (calculated per retreat) and a $75 administration fee.
