“Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” — Mark 6:31

We invite you with our Lord to come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while (Mk. 6:31) June 30-July 26, 2024 at the Alverna Center in Winona, Minnesota for “Priestly Renewal in Christ.” This extended retreat, offered by The Saint Paul Seminary Institute for Ongoing Clergy Formation in collaboration with St. Mary’s University of Minnesota, provides pastors the unique opportunity for renewal in your priesthood and in your capacity as a pastor, as well as fraternal support, rest, healing and spiritual direction.

The first five days are time for spiritual formation with Fr. Steven Hoffman, pastor of the Church of St. Peter in Mendota, and preparation for the eight-day directed retreat by Fr. Dan Barron from St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver. Saint Paul Seminary Assistant Director of Human Formation and Director of Counseling Services Paul Ruff will lead the third week’s human formation, and Fr. Lenny Andrie from St. Therese in Deephaven will wrap up the final week with pastoral leadership. Bishop Emeritus John LeVoir will serve as chaplain throughout the event.

This four-week period offers the time and space necessary for a transformative, lasting experience and refreshing encounter with the Lord, priestly fraternity, recreation, and enhancement of your pastoral leadership and zeal.

The first retreat will be available to a total of 12 pastors from the archdiocese of Saint Paul and Winona-Rochester. Space is limited and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. We will assist pastors in finding the weekend coverage required for your three weekends away.