Going On Retreat During Lent and Easter

March 25, 2024

Attending a Catholic retreat can be immensely rewarding. It provides an opportunity to strengthen one’s spiritual connection and faith. Lent and the Easter Season are especially powerful times to go on retreat. Malvern Retreat House, the nation’s oldest lay-owned Catholic retreat center is one of the best places in the country to retreat from the noise and hear God’s voice.

During the liturgical seasons of Lent and Easter, a retreat can bring us especially closer to God. A Lenten retreat can focus on sacrifice, prayer and alms giving. Going on a retreat during the Easter Season can help us recall with joy the salvation available to us because of Christ’s death and resurrection.

Proper preparation can elevate the enjoyment of a journey and enable individuals to maximize their time spent away. Investing time in planning can significantly enhance the overall experience of a retreat.

Whether you are new to retreats or have experience, this guide can help you get ready for your journey. Also, it will provide you with insight into what to expect during the retreat experience. 

Engage in Prayer and Seek Spiritual Direction

Prior to setting out on your journey, prioritize moments of prayer and introspection. Seek blessings and divine guidance for your retreat to illuminate your path on this sacred journey. Connect with the divine. 

Furthermore, ponder the value of seeking counsel from a spiritual guide or a revered mentor. Their wisdom and encouragement can serve as invaluable companions as you ready yourself for the retreat experience.

Review the Itinerary

Familiarize yourself with the itinerary, if available. This will show you what we will do during the retreat, such as activities, workshops, and spiritual exercises. 

Traditional Men’s and Women’s retreats at Malvern Retreat House consist of Mass and the Sacrament of Penance, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, conferences with speakers, meals, and ample time to enjoy the grounds, walk the Stations of the Cross and enjoy the silence of our beautiful campus. 

Understanding the schedule can help you mentally prepare and set expectations for each day. 

Pack Accordingly

Packing for a retreat involves more than just clothes and toiletries as this article from St. Anthony’s Catholic Church explains. Consider bringing a Bible, journal, rosary, and any other religious items that hold significance for you. 

Additionally, pack comfortable clothing suitable for both indoor and outdoor activities, as well as any necessary medications or personal items.

Open Mind and Heart

Approach the retreat with an open mind and heart. Be willing to engage fully in the activities and discussions, even if they push you out of your comfort zone. 

Remember that these are opportunities for growth and transformation. 

Prepare Mentally and Emotionally

Consider areas in your life where you need assistance or improvement. Be prepared to acquire new knowledge during the retreat. 

Consider setting aside distractions and commitments leading up to the retreat to create space for reflection and prayer. 

Connect with Fellow Participants

If possible, connect with fellow participants before you embark. Building relationships with others who will be attending can enhance the sense of community and support during the retreat. 

Consider reaching out via email or social media to introduce yourself and share your excitement for the upcoming experience.

Embrace Digital Detox

For a profound retreat encounter and to reduce disturbances, contemplate embracing a digital detox. Cut down or eliminate reliance on smartphones, email, and social media throughout your duration. 

This decision fosters an environment conducive to reflection, meditation, and communion with the Divine. 

Fully engage with the present moment, embracing the tranquility and introspection inherent in the retreat experience.

Set Intentions

Set intentions for the retreat based on your personal goals and aspirations. 

Whether it is seeking clarity on a particular issue, deepening your relationship with God, or finding peace amidst life’s challenges, articulating your intentions can help guide your experience and focus your prayers.

Expect the Unexpected

While it is essential to have a plan and set intentions, be prepared to embrace the unexpected. 

Retreats have a way of unfolding in ways we may not anticipate, and sometimes the most profound moments come when we least expect them. 

Remain open to God’s presence and guidance throughout.

Follow-Up and Integration

After the retreat concludes, take time to reflect on your experience and integrate any insights or lessons learned into your daily life. 

Consider incorporating new spiritual practices or habits that resonate with you and stay connected with fellow retreatants for ongoing support and encouragement. 

Getting ready for a Catholic retreat is more than just packing. It requires fully committing to participate, setting goals, and staying open to God’s presence and guidance during the journey.

Preparing in advance helps people get the most out of their journey, coming back with renewed faith and a clear purpose. This readiness encompasses mental, emotional, and spiritual fortification.

Through these preparations, participants can immerse themselves wholly in the retreat’s offerings, delving into profound reflections on their beliefs and aspirations. Thus, fostering a more enriching and fulfilling experience.

Malvern Retreat House several retreats coming up during the Lenten and Easter Seasons. Click here to learn more.