April 28, 2026

Beyond the Retreat

Jesus said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while” (Mark 6:31).

Benedictine monasteries have long been places of silent reflection and prayer. Places where you can hear God speak because worldly distractions are kept out.

The monks value having this quiet space, but they don’t keep it to themselves; they invite visitors to spend time with them in that silence and to encounter the rhythm of their lives centered in prayer. Hospitality is an important virtue for Benedictines. “Let all guests who arrive be received as Christ,” is not just a slogan. It is central to the lives of monks.

Each year, thousands of pilgrims knock on our doors seeking solace, seeking direction. The monks provide silent retreats for groups and for individuals. These experiences have a profound effect on those who stay with us. Whether they stay a weekend or a week, the witness of monastic life and the peaceful surroundings have a lasting impact beyond the retreat.

Gregory Conti first came to Conception on a private retreat seeking an experience more centered on Christ and energized by God’s action in prayer. Gregory shared, “I first came to Conception Abbey intentionally seeking to experience something different from the way of life I found ‘in the world.’ From the moment I arrived, I was filled with a profound peace in the melodic chant, the steady rhythm of returning to the basilica, and the wide open landscapes.”

For Gregory, the impact of his time here at Conception dramatically changed the course of his life. Not long after, Gregory entered the monastery. Now known as Br. Joachim, he is studying theology in Rome in preparation for priestly ordination (see Reflections from Rome, pgs 8-11).

Of course, not all guests end up becoming monks. But we do hope that the prayer, peace, and space found on our campus will allow them to better hear and follow God’s call in their lives.

Another great example of this is Lindsey Bouvier. Lindsey was one of the many college students who came to Conception on a retreat.

“The first retreat I attended at Conception Abbey was with my classmates from Oklahoma State University. I eventually attended three retreats with my OSU classmates. What I have slowly come to witness over time is how the monastery orients its highest priority toward a relationship with God and learning to recognize His voice. In a world that constantly battles to be the loudest, I have witnessed what it can look like for the Lord’s voice to carry the greatest weight. In the silence of the monastery, though also filled with joy and laughter, their understanding of the Lord’s voice continues to be refined and clarified. Getting to observe this rhythm of life at Conception Abbey is something I will always treasure.”

Lindsey now works in the Creative Department of our Altar + Home ministry, continuing to keep Christ at the center of her life and her work.

While these are just a couple of reflections from those whose lives have been transformed during their time at Conception Abbey. The number of those seeking retreats with us continues to increase, and we must continue our work to ensure there is always a space for those seeking to encounter Christ in a deeper and more meaningful way.

Thank you for your prayers and for your support. You are a part of this ministry. You help us keep our doors open to the thousands of pilgrims seeking the fulfillment that only a life centered in Christ can bring.

To find out how you can help support our retreat ministry, contact the Development Office at development@conception.edu or (660) 944-2824.

—Chris Brite
Planned Giving Director