Expert: Marvin C. Fox - 12/13/2004

Question
What is it? Why does one go on one? Thank You.

Answer
Hello Roger,

people go on retreats in order to recenter their lives on Christ. Although that is kind of a broad statement because retreats can have and usually do have a particular focus. There are retreats for married couples, teenagers, those with particular afflictions, or some retreats may focus on a kind of prayer.

A retreat as a general rule will have a defined plan worked out before hand by the director and other spiritual leaders, usually priests, religious or trusted lay persons.

A retreat can be a wonderfull, spiritually uplifting experience that sometimes will never be forgotten. It may be a time when a new perspective is arrived at, a paradigm shift of sorts. One thing for sure, if organized well by people who understand the spiritual needs of those out in the hardness of the world it will feel like stopping for a much needed breather.

If you have the opportunity to go on one, I recommend it.

Peace,

Marvin Fox