Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, yet he continued to return there again and again. During this Lenten season, we retreat to the wilderness to walk with Jesus over the rough terrain of our hearts. In our retreat together, we’ll explore the scriptural foundations of wilderness journeying, discuss our individual experiences, and seek to open our hearts to the surprises that Christ prepares for us in the wilderness of our own hearts.

Date and Time: Feb. 28 (Arrival: any time after 3 pm. Vespers: 5:00 pm, Dinner 5:30 pm, Opening of Retreat 7 pm)- March 2 (1:00 pm)

Retreat Director: Rick Smith, SMM Oblate

Fee: Registration and payment by February 10: single room: $245, double room: $230 commuter: $170.  (Meals, accommodations, speaker fee, and materials included). Registration and payment after Feb. 10: Single: $260, double: $250, Commuter: $180.

 “Ric Smith says “I am not a well-known speaker or retreat leader, though I do occasionally think of something worth saying, and say something worth listening to!” He has lived a full, rich life and draws on a wealth of ordinary, and sometimes remarkable, experience. He worked directing church and community choirs of all ages for over 40 years until his retirement in 2021. He is married to Cynthia, lives in Muscatine, Iowa, and has two daughters and two grandchildren. He enjoys spending time with his family, cycling with Cynthia, playing the piano, gardening, cooking, and reading. Ric is a Benedictine Oblate of St. Mary Monastery in Rock Island and directs a small chant schola in his parish in Muscatine.

Scholarship funds are available to assist with the cost. Ask upon registration.