Retreat Schedule
2022-23 Retreat Registration
Spring and Summer 2022 retreats are open for registration. If you encounter any problems while trying to register, please call the office at 847-381-1261.
Please visit our page on Health & Safety Protocols to read about what we are doing to protect our staff and retreatants as well as what we expect of our in-person guests during their time at Bellarmine.
July 15-23, 2022 Individually Directed Retreats
Private Retreat Days for Men & Women
July 15-23, 2022
Retreat Master: Bellarmine Jesuit Ministry Team and Additional Spiritual Directors
Come to the quiet of Bellarmine and take some time for yourself to get away from the distractions of life so you can read, write, catch up on sleep and pray. Spiritual Direction is available upon request with advance notice at time of registration; Otherwise, the time is yours to pray and enjoy the serenity of the house and grounds. You may register for either five or eight days.
5-Day Individually Directed Retreat ($675)
8-Day Individually Directed Retreat ($975)
Deadline for All Registrations was May 25, 2022. If you would still like to attend, please call the office 847-381-1261 to be added to a wait list, or check out our "Unplugged" retreat the last week of July which is described further below.
Learn more about Individually Directed Retreats here.
Single Overnight Cost: $122.00
The Chosen: A Spiritual Reflection Retreat
A Semi-Silent Midweek Retreat for Men & Women
July 26-29, 2022
Retreat Master: Bellarmine Jesuit Ministry Team and Additional Spiritual Directors
Retreatants will have the option of watching all 8 episodes of either season one or season two of The Chosen along with optional discussion time with fellow retreatants and a few of the Jesuits on our staff. The remainder of the retreat will provide time for you to be in a quiet retreat house to:
- Prayerfully reflect on the episodes
- Talk to a Spiritual Director about the episodes and your reflections on them
- Private time to read and journal on your own
This retreat is open to adults over 18 of all faiths, including those struggling with their faith, and those who are looking to have some private quiet time on our grounds and sacred spaces.
Unplugged Retreat
Private Retreat Days for Men & Women
July 26-29, 2022
Retreat Master: Bellarmine Jesuit Ministry Team and Additional Spiritual Directors
Do you need a getaway to catch up on some sleep and not have to worry about going anywhere or having to return a phone call?
.Cost for more than one night: $140/Day
Single Overnight Cost: $160.00
Spiritual Reset: Coming Back to Peace in an Uncertain Time
An Ignatian, Silent Overnight Retreat for Men & Women
July 29-30, 2022
Retreat Masters: Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ and Elizabeth Neubauer
Take time away from the chaos of the past two years to catch your breath and reset your soul. During this mini retreat we will delve into the timeless wisdom of the Spiritual Exercises and the deep calm of mindfulness and centering prayer. Together, these spiritual practices can help restore balance in your heart and mind. Gift yourself with 24 hours to let go of worry, surrender to God’s love, and re-connect to your deepest self.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Healing Conversations: Encountering the God Of All Things through the 14 Healing Helpers (Matt Carpenter Group)
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
September 9-11, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. Jeff Putthoff, SJ
We will make use of Ignatian prayer--familiar, conversational, and incarnational. Healing is fundamental to our lives and the tradition of the 14 healing helpers guide us in experiencing the abundance of God in our world.
Groups Attending: Matt Carpenter Group, Mazzuchelli’s Men, Individuals,
Science, Religion, and Beauty in the Stars
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men & Women
September 23-25, 2022
Retreat Master: Brother Guy Consolmagno, SJ
Both the amazing discoveries of astronomy, and the beauty of the stars themselves, provide a wonderful impetus to reflect on our place as creations of the same Creator. Through a series of talks and simple exercises, the director of the Vatican’s own astronomical observatory, Br. Guy Consolmagno SJ, will share how we can grow in awe and appreciation of the glory of God that the heavens proclaim.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Discerning Your Decision
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
September 30-October 2, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
Drawing on insights from his book, “What’s Your Decision?”, Fr. Michael will present an “Ignatian tool kit” for discernment and decision making, leading a series of prayer exercises designed to help us listen to God.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Holy Desires to Amazement
An Ignatian, Silent Midweek Retreat for Women
October 4-6, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. Richard Baumann, SJ
This retreat will follow the general themes and flow of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius, but in a very experiential manner, with emphasis upon holy desires, gratitude, self-assessment, cooperation with the Lord, trust, relationships, and amazement at the hope and strength God’s grace gives to us.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Mark’s Three Stories about Jesus: Jesus revealed as the “Messiah, the Son of God”
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
October 7-9, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. David Shields, SJ
Our faith is nourished by Jesus’ miracles, cures, and his teaching, but our faith is founded on his identity as Messiah, Son of God. Reflecting on the stories of Jesus’ Baptism, Transfiguration, and Resurrection, we can come to understand Jesus' life among us and for us, plus how our individual stories are united to his Story by God’s grace.
Groups Attending: Individuals
A Heart-Centered Approach to the Spiritual Exercises
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
October 14-16, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. Jim Kubicki, SJ
A 5th century bishop named Diadochus wrote that the measure of our love for God depends upon how deeply aware we are of God's love for us. St. Ignatius' "Exercises" are designed to deepen our awareness of God's love. Our retreat will focus on the relationship between our hearts and God's.
Groups Attending: Individuals
The Glory of God: Being Boldly and Humbly Yourself
An Ignatian, Semi-Silent Overnight Retreat for Young Adults (20s and 30s)
October 22-23, 2022
Retreat Masters: Justin Prom, SJ and Phil Cooley, SJ
Who am I before God? How am I called to give my life away? This retreat for young adults based on the Spiritual Exercises will provide space for a personal encounter with Christ and a chance to prayerfully reflect on what it means to be ourselves and to follow him.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Rise - New Beginnings
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Women
October 28-30, 2022
Retreat Master: Carol Atwell Ackels
We stand at a beginning of sorts, the beginning of another day, another time. We yearn for the ordinary and the familiar. But ours is a new time and a new world. This new beginning is also filled with possibilities. It is our invitation to rise and return with great joy to be witnesses of the Good News.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Simplicity, Recovery, and Service
An Ignatian, Recovery Weekend Retreat for Men
November 4-6, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. Tom Weston, SJ
"Reflections and conversations on the 12 Step of Recovery, for people who need grace, community, and quiet. All are welcome. Let the peace and quiet of Bellarmine Retreat House enrich your life and recovery as we enter the holidays."
Groups Attending: Individuals
Self-Acceptance and Spirituality
An Ignatian, Recovery Weekend Retreat for Women
November 11-13, 2022
Retreat Master: Sr. Linda Fischer
Using the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous we will look at how our own self-acceptance impacts the relationship we have with the God of our understanding, our Higher Power.
Groups Attending: Individuals
At the Table of the Lord
An Ignatian, Semi-Silent Overnight Retreat for Young Adults (20s and 30s)
November 19-20, 2022
Retreat Master: Lauren Hackman-Brooks
This weekend before Thanksgiving, nourish your spirit at the table of the Lord! The Gospel stories are full of food - Jesus eating and drinking with sinners and friends as well as miracles of loaves and fishes, water and wine. Together, we'll explore different ways of praying with Scripture as we encounter our God who practices radical table fellowship and calls us to do the same.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Preparing to Meet Jesus: What is Good Discipleship?
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
December 2-4, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. Andrew Wawrzyn
During the season of Advent we prepare both for commemoration of Jesus’ first coming and our longing for his second coming. Each ‘coming of Christ’ puts us in mind that, yes, we are sinners, but that we also are recipients of God’s love. How we respond to that love is the challenge we face as we make the effort to follow Jesus.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Simplicity, Recovery, and Service
An Ignatian, Recovery Weekend Retreat for Men
December 9-11, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. Tom Weston, SJ
Reflections and conversations on the 12 Step of Recovery, for people who need grace, community, and quiet. All are welcome. Let the peace and quiet of Bellarmine Retreat House enrich your life and recovery as we enter the holidays.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Praying with Pope Francis - The Gospel of Joy, Mercy, Love & Care for the Earth
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
January 6-8, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
Veteran storyteller and retreat master, Fr Michael Sparough, presents an engaging exploration of the major themes of fellow Jesuit Pope Francis’ writing and speaking. Using multi-media, creative rituals, and dramatic storytelling, retreatants will engage the gospel in a heart- changing weekend of prayer.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Healing Conversations: Encountering the God Of All Things through the 14 Healing Helpers
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
January 13-15, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Jeff Putthoff, SJ
We will make use of Ignatian prayer--familiar, conversational, and incarnational. Healing is fundamental to our lives and the tradition of the 14 healing helpers guide us in experiencing the abundance of God in our world.
Groups Attending: Individuals
A Heart-Centered Approach to the Spiritual Exercises
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
January 20-23, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Jim Kubicki, SJ
A 5th century bishop named Diadochus wrote that the measure of our love for God depends upon how deeply aware we are of God's love for us. St. Ignatius' "Exercises" are designed to deepen our awareness of God's love. Our retreat will focus on the relationship between our hearts and God's.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Finding God in All Things
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
January 27-29, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. David Shields, SJ
Holy moments help faith come alive. Working at noticing God in our world helps grow in relationship with Jesus. Let us all grow together in union with Jesus as He offers much to us.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Toward Greater Freedom: An Ignatian Journey through Prayer
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Women
February 3-5, 2023
Retreat Master: Ms. Jenene Francis
Every day is filled with choices, large and small, each an opportunity to grow closer to God. Sometimes things we hold dear, consciously and unconsciously, get in the way. During this weekend we will experience movements of the Spiritual Exercises through a variety of Ignatian-inspired ways of praying toward the grace of living a life of love and service more freely.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Discerning Your Decision
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
February 10-12, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
Drawing on insights from his book, “What’s Your Decision?”, Fr. Michael will present an “Ignatian tool kit” for discernment and decision making, leading a series of prayer exercises designed to help us listen to God.
Groups Attending: Individuals
What are the Spiritual Exercises?
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
February 24-26, 2023
Retreat Masters: Fr. Al Johnson and Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
In an age where the Church was being ripped apart by theological debate, St Ignatius Loyola was led by God to help people experience God’s love directly. 500 years later Jesuit Priest Fr.Michael Sparough, SJ and Episcopal Priest Fr. Al Johnson are teaming up to share insights from their own experience of St Ignatius' soul enriching, life changing program of spiritual renewal. This is a retreat for both those new to The Spiritual Exercises as well as veterans of many retreats. Join these two dynamic preachers and prayer leaders in a deep ecumenical dive into the heart of Ignatian spirituality.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Greater Things Than These You Shall Do
A 4-Day Ignatian, Silent Retreat for Men & Women
March 2-5, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Keith Muccino, SJ
This retreat will seek to help retreatants harness the grace of Christ's resurrection and energy of the Spirit - waiting to work through us and empower us to do greater things - or what St. Ignatius called "the MAGIS."
Groups Attending: St. Mary (Des Plaines), Individuals
The Mountaintop: The Place Where God Dwells
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
March 10-12, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Brad Held, SJ
Throughout the Bible God reveals himself on mountaintops. In fact, we speak of "mountaintop experiences" in our lives--those moments where we have had a deep experience of God. This retreat will follow the prayers of the Spiritual Exercises in hopes that through silence and prayer these will be days of encountering our God who desires to reveal himself to us.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Stage Two Recovery: Happy, Joyous and Free
An Ignatian, Recovery Weekend Retreat for Men
March 17-19, 2023
Retreat Master: To Be Determined
Abstinence, maintained through attending meetings and working the 12 steps, is the foundation of recovery. But abstinence is only the beginning. Quality sobriety includes an invitation to face the issues that may have been present before the first drink, or character traits that were twisted during our using days. Stage Two recovery holds the promise of a meaningful and connected life. This journey enables us to cultivate healthy relationships and move through challenges as a person of integrity and worth.
Groups Attending: Individuals
A Long, Loving Look at the Real: Encountering God in a Distracted World
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
March 24-26, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Joseph Simmons, SJ
We live in uncertain times, and St. Ignatius provides practical tools for building our spiritual home on the rock of Christ. Fr Joe Simmons weaves Scripture, stories, and elements of the Spiritual Exercises to help us uncover where Christ is always-already laboring in our lives. This weekend retreat aims to help men in all stages of life sift through distractions to rekindle the fire of God’s love.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Accepting God's Love Takes Courage
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
March 31-April 2, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Paul Macke, SJ
As we approach the holiest week of the Church year, let's just stop and be present to Jesus loving us without condition. This retreat will explore the obstacles to accepting this unconditional love and the fact that this acceptance requires a grace-filled courage.
Groups Attending: Individuals
The Triduum: Entering into the Mystery of Christ
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men & Women
April 6-8, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Roc O'Connor, SJ
On retreat, we will reflect prayerfully on the primary scriptures and actions of Triduum to discern how we enter into the Mystery of Christ which our Lenten disciplines will have already revealed to us. Knowing ourselves can deepen our relationship with Christ who is the central focus of Triduum.
Groups Attending: Individuals
'Be Merciful as Your Father is Merciful' (Luke 6:36)
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men & Women
April 14-16, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Jim Kubicki, SJ
Our retreat, which falls on the Sunday after Easter, now known as Divine Mercy Sunday, will lead us to a deeper awareness of God's mercy. Having reflected on our experience of mercy, we will focus on having a merciful heart like the Heart of Jesus.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Breaking Bread Together
An Ignatian, Semi-Silent Weekend Retreat for Couples
April 21-23, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Christopher Manahan, SJ
Jesus shares many meals in the Gospels. During this retreat we will reflect on why “breaking bread together” is important to Jesus’ ministry and for the mission given to married couples.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Praying with the Psalms
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Women
April 28-30, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Mitch Pacwa, SJ
Fr. Mitch will lead us through using the Psalms as a guide to prayer.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Ignatian Spirituality & Yoga
An Ignatian, Semi-Silent Weekend Retreat for Men & Women
May 5-7, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Bobby Karle, SJ
The Ignatian Spirituality & Yoga retreat will include talks from the retreat leaders, gentle movement, group prayer, silent personal reflection, small group sharing, spiritual direction, Confession, and the Eucharist. The retreat sessions will explore the four Universal Apostolic Preferences of the Society of Jesus through the lens of both the Christian and Yoga traditions. This retreat offers a unique opportunity to learn, relax, and connect with God, nature, self, and others. No prior experience with Ignatian spirituality of yoga is required.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Virtual Day of Reflection
We may be offering the October 11, 2021 program (Discerning Your Decision) with Fr. Sparough, SJ as a Virtual Day of Reflection. If you are interested in attending a virtual Day of Reflection on October 11, 2021 please enter your contact information here.
Bellarmine's "Ignatian Inspiration" Series
Bellarmine Jesuit Retreat House has started an “Ignatian Inspiration” series of live-recorded virtual retreats. This series focuses on stories about how people have used or are using the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius Loyola to lead more fulfilling lives in the service of others.
Below is a listing of retreats that we have recorded for you to watch or listen to. The benefit of these recorded retreats is that you can watch them when it's convenient for you. Please keep an eye out for future live virtual retreats. Learn more here.
Who is Jesus? This can be a complicated question. Around the world, Jesus is seen as a teacher, prophet, holy man, wonder-worker, or the Son of God. Who is Jesus to you? This is an essential question for anyone on a spiritual journey with Christ. Wherever you are in your journey with Jesus, this is a retreat to reflect on His call to follow Him (for the first time or anew) and the obstacles that may keep us from freely responding to His call. In this online retreat, Fr. James Martin, SJ responds from his personal experience and gives an Ignatian perspective on sensing and responding to God's call. Jonathan Roumie, the actor portraying Jesus in The Chosen TV series, reflects on his own personal calling and on the call of the biblical characters dramatized in the series (viewing this series is suggested prior to attending the retreat). Retreatants will be invited to reflect on who the person of Jesus is in their own life and how they are called to follow Christ. Life is full of choices. And when we say “Yes” to many things, even good things, that’s not a good thing. We invite you to spend a virtual evening with two Father Michaels, both of whom struggle with this issue in their lives. They’ll share what they’re learning from their mistakes, and how the Holy Spirit is guiding us all toward greater balance in our lives. The recording of this retreat is now available for purchase. Click the button below to be taken to the purchase page. After completing the transaction you will receive a link to the recorded virtual retreat in your email. This special retreat was recorded at Bellarmine and includes 8 talks and a homily by Fr. Boyle. He shares what he has learned in three decades of working with marginalized populations at Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles — that love is the answer, community is the context, and tenderness is the connective tissue. Tenderness reflects the foundational notion that there is no “us” and “them,” only “us.” Fr. Boyle is the founder of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles, the largest gang intervention, rehabilitation, and re-entry program in the world. Homeboy Industries employs and trains former gang members in a range of social enterprises, as well as provides critical services to thousands of men and women who walk through its doors every year. Fr. Boyle is the author of the 2010 New York Times bestseller Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion. His 2017 book is the Los Angeles Times bestseller Barking to the Choir: The Power of Radical Kinship. Click "buy" to purchase the full album via Bandcamp for either direct download or streaming through the Bandcamp app. Preview the retreat talks from Fr. Boyle using the player below. The first talk is free to get a sample of the content.The Called & The Chosen Retreat Recording
Saying "No" to Give a Deeper "Yes" Virtual Retreat
The Whole Language - A Retreat with Fr. Greg Boyle, SJ
Healing Conversations: Encountering the God Of All Things through the 14 Healing Helpers (Matt Carpenter Group)
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
September 9-11, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. Jeff Putthoff, SJ
We will make use of Ignatian prayer--familiar, conversational, and incarnational. Healing is fundamental to our lives and the tradition of the 14 healing helpers guide us in experiencing the abundance of God in our world.
Groups Attending: Matt Carpenter Group, Mazzuchelli’s Men, Individuals,
Discerning Your Decision
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
September 30-October 2, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
Drawing on insights from his book, “What’s Your Decision?”, Fr. Michael will present an “Ignatian tool kit” for discernment and decision making, leading a series of prayer exercises designed to help us listen to God.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Mark’s Three Stories about Jesus: Jesus revealed as the “Messiah, the Son of God”
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
October 7-9, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. David Shields, SJ
Our faith is nourished by Jesus’ miracles, cures, and his teaching, but our faith is founded on his identity as Messiah, Son of God. Reflecting on the stories of Jesus’ Baptism, Transfiguration, and Resurrection, we can come to understand Jesus' life among us and for us, plus how our individual stories are united to his Story by God’s grace.
Groups Attending: Individuals
A Heart-Centered Approach to the Spiritual Exercises
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
October 14-16, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. Jim Kubicki, SJ
A 5th century bishop named Diadochus wrote that the measure of our love for God depends upon how deeply aware we are of God's love for us. St. Ignatius' "Exercises" are designed to deepen our awareness of God's love. Our retreat will focus on the relationship between our hearts and God's.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Preparing to Meet Jesus: What is Good Discipleship?
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
December 2-4, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. Andrew Wawrzyn
During the season of Advent we prepare both for commemoration of Jesus’ first coming and our longing for his second coming. Each ‘coming of Christ’ puts us in mind that, yes, we are sinners, but that we also are recipients of God’s love. How we respond to that love is the challenge we face as we make the effort to follow Jesus.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Praying with Pope Francis - The Gospel of Joy, Mercy, Love & Care for the Earth
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
January 6-8, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
Veteran storyteller and retreat master, Fr Michael Sparough, presents an engaging exploration of the major themes of fellow Jesuit Pope Francis’ writing and speaking. Using multi-media, creative rituals, and dramatic storytelling, retreatants will engage the gospel in a heart- changing weekend of prayer.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Healing Conversations: Encountering the God Of All Things through the 14 Healing Helpers
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
January 13-15, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Jeff Putthoff, SJ
We will make use of Ignatian prayer--familiar, conversational, and incarnational. Healing is fundamental to our lives and the tradition of the 14 healing helpers guide us in experiencing the abundance of God in our world.
Groups Attending: Individuals
A Heart-Centered Approach to the Spiritual Exercises
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
January 20-23, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Jim Kubicki, SJ
A 5th century bishop named Diadochus wrote that the measure of our love for God depends upon how deeply aware we are of God's love for us. St. Ignatius' "Exercises" are designed to deepen our awareness of God's love. Our retreat will focus on the relationship between our hearts and God's.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Finding God in All Things
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
January 27-29, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. David Shields, SJ
Holy moments help faith come alive. Working at noticing God in our world helps grow in relationship with Jesus. Let us all grow together in union with Jesus as He offers much to us.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Discerning Your Decision
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
February 10-12, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
Drawing on insights from his book, “What’s Your Decision?”, Fr. Michael will present an “Ignatian tool kit” for discernment and decision making, leading a series of prayer exercises designed to help us listen to God.
Groups Attending: Individuals
What are the Spiritual Exercises?
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
February 24-26, 2023
Retreat Masters: Fr. Al Johnson and Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
In an age where the Church was being ripped apart by theological debate, St Ignatius Loyola was led by God to help people experience God’s love directly. 500 years later Jesuit Priest Fr.Michael Sparough, SJ and Episcopal Priest Fr. Al Johnson are teaming up to share insights from their own experience of St Ignatius' soul enriching, life changing program of spiritual renewal. This is a retreat for both those new to The Spiritual Exercises as well as veterans of many retreats. Join these two dynamic preachers and prayer leaders in a deep ecumenical dive into the heart of Ignatian spirituality.
Groups Attending: Individuals
The Mountaintop: The Place Where God Dwells
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
March 10-12, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Brad Held, SJ
Throughout the Bible God reveals himself on mountaintops. In fact, we speak of "mountaintop experiences" in our lives--those moments where we have had a deep experience of God. This retreat will follow the prayers of the Spiritual Exercises in hopes that through silence and prayer these will be days of encountering our God who desires to reveal himself to us.
Groups Attending: Individuals
A Long, Loving Look at the Real: Encountering God in a Distracted World
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
March 24-26, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Joseph Simmons, SJ
We live in uncertain times, and St. Ignatius provides practical tools for building our spiritual home on the rock of Christ. Fr Joe Simmons weaves Scripture, stories, and elements of the Spiritual Exercises to help us uncover where Christ is always-already laboring in our lives. This weekend retreat aims to help men in all stages of life sift through distractions to rekindle the fire of God’s love.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Accepting God's Love Takes Courage
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
March 31-April 2, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Paul Macke, SJ
As we approach the holiest week of the Church year, let's just stop and be present to Jesus loving us without condition. This retreat will explore the obstacles to accepting this unconditional love and the fact that this acceptance requires a grace-filled courage.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Holy Desires to Amazement
An Ignatian, Silent Midweek Retreat for Women
October 4-6, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. Richard Baumann, SJ
This retreat will follow the general themes and flow of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius, but in a very experiential manner, with emphasis upon holy desires, gratitude, self-assessment, cooperation with the Lord, trust, relationships, and amazement at the hope and strength God’s grace gives to us.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Rise - New Beginnings
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Women
October 28-30, 2022
Retreat Master: Carol Atwell Ackels
We stand at a beginning of sorts, the beginning of another day, another time. We yearn for the ordinary and the familiar. But ours is a new time and a new world. This new beginning is also filled with possibilities. It is our invitation to rise and return with great joy to be witnesses of the Good News.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Toward Greater Freedom: An Ignatian Journey through Prayer
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Women
February 3-5, 2023
Retreat Master: Ms. Jenene Francis
Every day is filled with choices, large and small, each an opportunity to grow closer to God. Sometimes things we hold dear, consciously and unconsciously, get in the way. During this weekend we will experience movements of the Spiritual Exercises through a variety of Ignatian-inspired ways of praying toward the grace of living a life of love and service more freely.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Praying with the Psalms
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Women
April 28-30, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Mitch Pacwa, SJ
Fr. Mitch will lead us through using the Psalms as a guide to prayer.
Groups Attending: Individuals
July 15-23, 2022 Individually Directed Retreats
Private Retreat Days for Men & Women
July 15-23, 2022
Retreat Master: Bellarmine Jesuit Ministry Team and Additional Spiritual Directors
Come to the quiet of Bellarmine and take some time for yourself to get away from the distractions of life so you can read, write, catch up on sleep and pray. Spiritual Direction is available upon request with advance notice at time of registration; Otherwise, the time is yours to pray and enjoy the serenity of the house and grounds. You may register for either five or eight days.
5-Day Individually Directed Retreat ($675)
8-Day Individually Directed Retreat ($975)
Deadline for All Registrations was May 25, 2022. If you would still like to attend, please call the office 847-381-1261 to be added to a wait list, or check out our "Unplugged" retreat the last week of July which is described further below.
Learn more about Individually Directed Retreats here.
Single Overnight Cost: $122.00
The Chosen: A Spiritual Reflection Retreat
A Semi-Silent Midweek Retreat for Men & Women
July 26-29, 2022
Retreat Master: Bellarmine Jesuit Ministry Team and Additional Spiritual Directors
Retreatants will have the option of watching all 8 episodes of either season one or season two of The Chosen along with optional discussion time with fellow retreatants and a few of the Jesuits on our staff. The remainder of the retreat will provide time for you to be in a quiet retreat house to:
- Prayerfully reflect on the episodes
- Talk to a Spiritual Director about the episodes and your reflections on them
- Private time to read and journal on your own
This retreat is open to adults over 18 of all faiths, including those struggling with their faith, and those who are looking to have some private quiet time on our grounds and sacred spaces.
Unplugged Retreat
Private Retreat Days for Men & Women
July 26-29, 2022
Retreat Master: Bellarmine Jesuit Ministry Team and Additional Spiritual Directors
Do you need a getaway to catch up on some sleep and not have to worry about going anywhere or having to return a phone call?
.Cost for more than one night: $140/Day
Single Overnight Cost: $160.00
Spiritual Reset: Coming Back to Peace in an Uncertain Time
An Ignatian, Silent Overnight Retreat for Men & Women
July 29-30, 2022
Retreat Masters: Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ and Elizabeth Neubauer
Take time away from the chaos of the past two years to catch your breath and reset your soul. During this mini retreat we will delve into the timeless wisdom of the Spiritual Exercises and the deep calm of mindfulness and centering prayer. Together, these spiritual practices can help restore balance in your heart and mind. Gift yourself with 24 hours to let go of worry, surrender to God’s love, and re-connect to your deepest self.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Science, Religion, and Beauty in the Stars
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men & Women
September 23-25, 2022
Retreat Master: Brother Guy Consolmagno, SJ
Both the amazing discoveries of astronomy, and the beauty of the stars themselves, provide a wonderful impetus to reflect on our place as creations of the same Creator. Through a series of talks and simple exercises, the director of the Vatican’s own astronomical observatory, Br. Guy Consolmagno SJ, will share how we can grow in awe and appreciation of the glory of God that the heavens proclaim.
Groups Attending: Individuals
The Glory of God: Being Boldly and Humbly Yourself
An Ignatian, Semi-Silent Overnight Retreat for Young Adults (20s and 30s)
October 22-23, 2022
Retreat Masters: Justin Prom, SJ and Phil Cooley, SJ
Who am I before God? How am I called to give my life away? This retreat for young adults based on the Spiritual Exercises will provide space for a personal encounter with Christ and a chance to prayerfully reflect on what it means to be ourselves and to follow him.
Groups Attending: Individuals
At the Table of the Lord
An Ignatian, Semi-Silent Overnight Retreat for Young Adults (20s and 30s)
November 19-20, 2022
Retreat Master: Lauren Hackman-Brooks
This weekend before Thanksgiving, nourish your spirit at the table of the Lord! The Gospel stories are full of food - Jesus eating and drinking with sinners and friends as well as miracles of loaves and fishes, water and wine. Together, we'll explore different ways of praying with Scripture as we encounter our God who practices radical table fellowship and calls us to do the same.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Greater Things Than These You Shall Do
A 4-Day Ignatian, Silent Retreat for Men & Women
March 2-5, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Keith Muccino, SJ
This retreat will seek to help retreatants harness the grace of Christ's resurrection and energy of the Spirit - waiting to work through us and empower us to do greater things - or what St. Ignatius called "the MAGIS."
Groups Attending: St. Mary (Des Plaines), Individuals
The Triduum: Entering into the Mystery of Christ
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men & Women
April 6-8, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Roc O'Connor, SJ
On retreat, we will reflect prayerfully on the primary scriptures and actions of Triduum to discern how we enter into the Mystery of Christ which our Lenten disciplines will have already revealed to us. Knowing ourselves can deepen our relationship with Christ who is the central focus of Triduum.
Groups Attending: Individuals
'Be Merciful as Your Father is Merciful' (Luke 6:36)
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men & Women
April 14-16, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Jim Kubicki, SJ
Our retreat, which falls on the Sunday after Easter, now known as Divine Mercy Sunday, will lead us to a deeper awareness of God's mercy. Having reflected on our experience of mercy, we will focus on having a merciful heart like the Heart of Jesus.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Ignatian Spirituality & Yoga
An Ignatian, Semi-Silent Weekend Retreat for Men & Women
May 5-7, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Bobby Karle, SJ
The Ignatian Spirituality & Yoga retreat will include talks from the retreat leaders, gentle movement, group prayer, silent personal reflection, small group sharing, spiritual direction, Confession, and the Eucharist. The retreat sessions will explore the four Universal Apostolic Preferences of the Society of Jesus through the lens of both the Christian and Yoga traditions. This retreat offers a unique opportunity to learn, relax, and connect with God, nature, self, and others. No prior experience with Ignatian spirituality of yoga is required.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Breaking Bread Together
An Ignatian, Semi-Silent Weekend Retreat for Couples
April 21-23, 2023
Retreat Master: Fr. Christopher Manahan, SJ
Jesus shares many meals in the Gospels. During this retreat we will reflect on why “breaking bread together” is important to Jesus’ ministry and for the mission given to married couples.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Simplicity, Recovery, and Service
An Ignatian, Recovery Weekend Retreat for Men
November 4-6, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. Tom Weston, SJ
"Reflections and conversations on the 12 Step of Recovery, for people who need grace, community, and quiet. All are welcome. Let the peace and quiet of Bellarmine Retreat House enrich your life and recovery as we enter the holidays."
Groups Attending: Individuals
Self-Acceptance and Spirituality
An Ignatian, Recovery Weekend Retreat for Women
November 11-13, 2022
Retreat Master: Sr. Linda Fischer
Using the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous we will look at how our own self-acceptance impacts the relationship we have with the God of our understanding, our Higher Power.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Simplicity, Recovery, and Service
An Ignatian, Recovery Weekend Retreat for Men
December 9-11, 2022
Retreat Master: Fr. Tom Weston, SJ
Reflections and conversations on the 12 Step of Recovery, for people who need grace, community, and quiet. All are welcome. Let the peace and quiet of Bellarmine Retreat House enrich your life and recovery as we enter the holidays.
Groups Attending: Individuals
Stage Two Recovery: Happy, Joyous and Free
An Ignatian, Recovery Weekend Retreat for Men
March 17-19, 2023
Retreat Master: To Be Determined
Abstinence, maintained through attending meetings and working the 12 steps, is the foundation of recovery. But abstinence is only the beginning. Quality sobriety includes an invitation to face the issues that may have been present before the first drink, or character traits that were twisted during our using days. Stage Two recovery holds the promise of a meaningful and connected life. This journey enables us to cultivate healthy relationships and move through challenges as a person of integrity and worth.
Groups Attending: Individuals