Retreat

[DonnaMaree]

Hi,
I am new here. My name is Donna.
I am Catholic. I have recently attended a few Latin Masses for the first time.
I will be attending a week long retreat on the Spiritual studies of St. Ignatius. It is a silent retreat and will be held at a Pius X (sp) retreat center.

Please, can anyone who has been on this retreat tell me what to expect, what to bring, etc.
Since I do not normally attend a Latin Mass, I do not have the head covering, missal, etc, but I am looking forward to the experience of the Latin tradition and learning all I can.
Though I do not intend on changing I do enjoy learning others traditions.
At the Latin Mass I attended, most of the ladies wore dresses. I do dress modestly but I choose to wear pants. I am more comfortable. I am hoping that will not be offensive.
I have been Catholic all my 47 years, only vaguely remember Latin Masses from childhood.

Any advice on what to bring, what to expect would be appreciated.
Can I expect to have the opportunity to speak with a priest or Spiritual advisor?

Thank You and God Bless You,
Donna Marie

 

[puzzleannie]

sounds like a very traditional setting, and where those participating place modesty, as they define it, over comfort so I would definitely pack a skirt or dress for Mass, or any time you gather in church or chapel, and a headcovering, scarf is fine if you can’t find a veil, but i bet they are sold or provided if required. When you register for the retreat you will probably be given some kind of guide, what to wear, hours of silence, mealtimes, how to take care of your room etc.

the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius comprise a 30 day directed retreat, but the length of “days” and “weeks” may not correspond to actual calendar days, and will be modified by your director to meet your needs. You will probably have an interview when you arrive so that he can understand your current stage in life and assess what benefit you should derive from this time. they focus on confrontation of one’s sinfulness, compunction, meditation on the Passion, contrition, amendment, and especially discernment and making major life decisions, including but not only vocation.

bring a bible, notebook and pen, and I would not advise that you bring any other spiritual reading, other than your prayerbook or liturgy of the hours. Spiritual reading will be assigned to you as part of the exercises. Pack light, only what you need, then trim even more baggage before you zip your suitcase. If the retreat center has grounds and walking trails pack appropriate footwear and dress for the weather.

you should ask for specifics on the retreat itself when you register.