History of Passionist Retreats

Retreat of the Presentation on Monte Argentario, first Passionist foundation.

Retreat of the Presentation on Monte Argentario, first Passionist foundation.

People today make a retreat for a variety of reasons.

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In 1740, St. Paul of the Cross began gathering companions who would live and proclaim a loving remembrance of the sufferings and death of Jesus. He did so from his profound conviction that keeping the memory of the Passion alive had the power to inspire and change the lives of men and women all over the world.

As these men, who would later be called “Passionists,” gathered in residences called “retreats,” others were invited to come for a short time and experience the prayer and solitude that such places offered. Today, Passionist Retreat Centers located throughout the world continue this work, mainly through weekend retreats.

People make a retreat for a variety of reasons from grappling with a crisis in their lives to needing help with an important decision. In choosing to attend a Passionist retreat, many retreatants experience a personal encounter with God through a balance of communal prayer, inspirational talks, silence and solitude, natural beauty and sacramental grace. This sacred time brings renewal for your body, mind and spirit.

Passionist retreat centers also provide a beautiful and unique setting with ample space and facilities for corporate organizations, religious communities, church, school groups and others to gather for meetings.

Spiritual retreats are open to Catholics and non-Catholics. The prayer and worship styles are Catholic because that’s who we are, but all are welcome!

To read more about Passionist retreat centers,
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