Our 2022-23 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.
December 2-4, 2022
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. Andrew Wawrzyn
Retreat Title: Preparing to Meet Jesus: What is Good Discipleship?
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: St Basil FKA Don Goodwillie, Individuals
December 7, 2022 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
Retreat Title: A Cup of Christmas Tea: Stories, Poems, Songs & Traditions
Fr. Michael brings his favorite stories, poems, songs and traditions surrounding this most beloved season of the year. This is a day to soften the heart and open your spirit to the soulful, creative celebration of the Word made flesh, the birth of our Savior.
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Lunch)
This retreat is currently at capacity or registration is closed. Please call the office at 847.381.1261 with questions.
December 9-11, 2022
An Ignatian, Recovery Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. Tom Weston, SJ
Retreat Title: Simplicity, Recovery, and Service
Reflections and conversations on the 12 Steps 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
December 15, 2022 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. Mark Henninger, SJ
and
Nancy Hulsebosch
Retreat Title: Heralds of Hope
Advent is a season of hope, expectancy, and joyful preparation as we anticipate the coming of Christ. How might Jesus be inviting us to nurture His presence within? Enjoy a day of prayer and quiet reflection as we contemplate how we might make room for the Lord with faithful and grateful hearts.
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Lunch)
January 3-6, 2023
Private Retreat Days for Adults
Retreat Master:
To Be Determined
Retreat Title: Personalized Retreat Days
A personalized retreat with you in mind. Do you need to unwind from the holidays or gear up for the year ahead? Spend a few days at Bellarmine doing what YOU need to begin the year with peace of mind. Daily Mass, delicious meals, cozy rooms, a wood-burning fireplace, and 80 serene acres await. Come and make your own sacred time at Bellarmine's sacred spaces.
One night: $160
More than than one night: $140/night
Single Overnight Cost: $160.00
Cost: $160.00/day
January 6-8, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
Retreat Title: Praying with Pope Francis - The Gospel of Joy, Mercy, Love & Care for the Earth
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: Four Shepherds, Holy Child Jesus fka St. Margaret Mary (Chicago), Church of St. Mary (Lake Forest), Individuals
January 13-15, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. Jeff Putthoff, SJ
Retreat Title: Healing Conversations: Encountering the God Of All Things through the 14 Healing Helpers
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: St. James the Apostle (Glen Ellyn), The Ken Murphy Group, Individuals
January 16, 2023 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. Joshua Peters, SJ
and
Eric Styles
Retreat Title: Martin Luther King, Jr. - Racism, Reconciliation, and Hope
Join us in a day focused on prayer, song, and sacred scripture that grounds our commitment to the Beloved Community in a faith that looks upon the world with open eyes, seeing God's grace. The work of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. continues with us. Even in a divided world, we trust that shared experience will lead to what Ignatius called "God's deepening life in us."
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Dinner)
January 20-22, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. Jim Kubicki, SJ
Retreat Title: A Heart-Centered Approach to the Spiritual Exercises
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: Sts. Faith, Hope and Charity (Winnetka), St. Patrick (St. Charles) and Knights of Columbus #12497, St. Joseph and Francis Xavier (Wilmette), Knights of Columbus - Elmhurst, Individuals
January 27-29, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. David Shields, SJ
Retreat Title: Jesus Revealed
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 Mark's stories of Jesus’ Baptism, Transfiguration, and Resurrection, we can come to understand Jesus' life among us and for us, and how our individual stories are united to His Story by God’s grace.
Groups Attending: Roche Zera Group, Mary Seat of Wisdom, St. Mary Buffalo Grove Knights & Men's Club, Individuals
February 2, 2023 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm (Central Time)
A Virtual Evening of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Roc O'Connor, SJ
Retreat Title: Making the Most of Lent - Virtual Retreat
Like Groundhog Day, it sometimes feels like we repeat the same liturgical seasons over and over again without growing much in our faith. Join Fr. Roc for this virtual evening retreat and explore ways to break out of the monotony and make the most of this Lenten season.
Program Cost: $30.00
February 3-5, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Women
Retreat Master:
Ms. Jenene Francis
Retreat Title: Toward Greater Freedom: An Ignatian Journey through Prayer
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: Saint Ignatius College Prep Alumni & Parents, Individuals
February 5, 2023 8:00 am to 6:30 pm
A Veteran's Coming Home Retreat for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
and
Team of Veterans
Retreat Title: Veterans' Coming Home Retreat
All veterans and their adult family members are welcome for reflection on the transitions to and from military life. You’ll spend a day with others who understand what you’ve experienced.
February 10-12, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
Retreat Title: Discerning Your Decision
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
February 22, 2023 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
and
Terri Davis Hayden
Retreat Title: The Journey to Easter: The Passion and Resurrection According to John
Jump start your Lent this year with a profound encounter with the Passion and Resurrection narratives as told in John’s gospel. Fr Michael will dramatize the scripture and reflect on its meaning in our lives today. Terri will touch our souls with Christian hymns new and old. This is a day you won’t want to miss as these two veteran performers use their gifts to help us open our hearts and minds to the depth of Jesus’ love for us.
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Lunch)
February 24-26, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. Al Johnson
and
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
Retreat Title: What are the Spiritual Exercises?
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: Sts. Peter & Paul, St. Thomas, & St. Raphael (Naperville), Individuals
March 2-5, 2023
A 4-Day Ignatian, Silent Retreat for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Keith Muccino, SJ
Retreat Title: Greater Things Than These You Shall Do
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
March 10-12, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. Brad Held, SJ
Retreat Title: The Mountaintop: The Place Where God Dwells
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: St. Isaac Jogues (Hinsdale), Walsh Jesuit High School Alumni, Saint Ignatius College Prep Alumni & Parents, Individuals
March 13, 2023 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Brad Held, SJ
Retreat Title: Lenten Day of Reflection
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Lunch)
March 17-19, 2023
An Ignatian, Recovery Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Elizabeth Neubauer
Retreat Title: Stage Two Recovery: Happy, Joyous and Free
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
March 24-26, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. Joseph Simmons, SJ
Retreat Title: A Long, Loving Look at the Real: Encountering God in a Distracted World
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: St. Vincent Ferrer (River Forest), Individuals
March 31-April 2, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. Paul Macke, SJ
Retreat Title: Accepting God's Love Takes Courage
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: Knights of Columbus, St. Catherine of Sienna (Dundee), Individuals
April 3-6, 2023
Private Retreat Days for Adults
Retreat Master:
Bellarmine Jesuit Ministry Team and Additional Spiritual Directors
Retreat Title: Silent Private Retreats
Come to enjoy the quiet of Bellarmine before the busy holiday season. Spiritual Direction is available upon request. Otherwise, enjoy the time to pray, rest and enjoy the serenity of the house and grounds.
Cost: $160.00/day
April 4, 2023 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
An Evening of Reflection for Women
Retreat Master:
Nancy Hulsebosch
Retreat Title: Mary's Way of the Cross
Program Cost: $50.00 (includes Dinner)
April 6-8, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Roc O'Connor, SJ
Retreat Title: The Triduum: Entering into the Mystery of Christ
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
April 14-16, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Jim Kubicki, SJ
Retreat Title: 'Be Merciful as Your Father is Merciful' (Luke 6:36)
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
April 21-23, 2023
An Ignatian, Semi-Silent Weekend Retreat for Couples
Retreat Master:
Fr. Christopher Manahan, SJ
Retreat Title: Breaking Bread Together
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
April 28-30, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Women
Retreat Master:
Fr. Mitch Pacwa, SJ
Retreat Title: Praying with the Psalms: How can God use a sinner like me?
Why isn't the Church filled with saints? During this retreat, we will reflect on Jesus' mission to sinners and the way that He transforms them step by step, beginning with the apostles and continuing into the present time. The goal will be to see ourselves in the lives of the first disciples and their own relationship with Jesus Christ.
Groups Attending: St Mary of Vernon (Vernon Hills), Individuals
May 5-7, 2023
An Ignatian, Semi-Silent Weekend Retreat for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Bobby Karle, SJ
Retreat Title: Ignatian Spirituality & Yoga
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
May 12, 2023 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Women
Retreat Masters:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
and
Rachel Forton
Retreat Title: Holy is Her Name
Spend a day in the presence of other women getting in touch with the feminine qualities of God as we explore what it means to say "holy is Her name." As women, we do ourselves a disservice if we only ever relate to a male image of God. We know that God is without gender and encompasses all the masculine and feminine qualities of humanity. Imagining a feminine God helps us view our own femininity as sacred and precious. We will draw from Scripture (where God is referred to as a mother hen, midwife, laboring woman, and more), the words of holy women such as Julian of Norwich and Hildegard of Bingen, and the work of numerous women theologians and spiritual writers. Join us as we share prayer experiences designed to open our hearts to new ways of seeing God within and around us.
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Lunch)
May 21, 2023 8:00 am to 6:30 pm
A Veteran's Coming Home Retreat for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
and
Team of Veterans
Retreat Title: Veterans' Coming Home Retreat
All veterans and their adult family members are welcome for reflection on the transitions to and from military life. You’ll spend a day with others who understand what you’ve experienced.
June 17, 2023 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Dan Hartnett, SJ
Retreat Title: Spanish Day of Prayer: La Humilidad de Dios
Puede sonar extraño hablar de la “humildad” de Dios. Si nos fijamos en la imagen de Dios que ha sido revelado en la persona de Jesús, vemos efectivamente que Dios es, antes que nada, humilde, cercano y sencillo. Durante este día de oración, trataremos de purificar nuestras imágenes de Dios, concentrándonos tanto en la belleza de la creación como en el misterio de la encarnación. Si llegamos a conocer el rostro humilde de nuestro Dios, nos quedará más claro cómo hemos de ser imagen de Dios y cómo ser discípulo de Jesús.
Favor de registrarse de antemano. Es necesario para que haya comida suficiente en el almuerzo y para cumplir con las normas de distanciamiento social. Gracias!
Program Cost: There is no cost for this retreat; free will donations accepted. Se aceptan donaciones. (includes Lunch)
February 2, 2023 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm (Central Time)
A Virtual Evening of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Roc O'Connor, SJ
Retreat Title: Making the Most of Lent - Virtual Retreat
Like Groundhog Day, it sometimes feels like we repeat the same liturgical seasons over and over again without growing much in our faith. Join Fr. Roc for this virtual evening retreat and explore ways to break out of the monotony and make the most of this Lenten season.
Program Cost: $30.00
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. Fr. Boyle 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
December 2-4, 2022
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. Andrew Wawrzyn
Retreat Title: Preparing to Meet Jesus: What is Good Discipleship?
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: St Basil FKA Don Goodwillie, Individuals
January 6-8, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
Retreat Title: Praying with Pope Francis - The Gospel of Joy, Mercy, Love & Care for the Earth
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: Four Shepherds, Holy Child Jesus fka St. Margaret Mary (Chicago), Church of St. Mary (Lake Forest), Individuals
January 13-15, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. Jeff Putthoff, SJ
Retreat Title: Healing Conversations: Encountering the God Of All Things through the 14 Healing Helpers
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: St. James the Apostle (Glen Ellyn), The Ken Murphy Group, Individuals
January 20-22, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. Jim Kubicki, SJ
Retreat Title: A Heart-Centered Approach to the Spiritual Exercises
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: Sts. Faith, Hope and Charity (Winnetka), St. Patrick (St. Charles) and Knights of Columbus #12497, St. Joseph and Francis Xavier (Wilmette), Knights of Columbus - Elmhurst, Individuals
January 27-29, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. David Shields, SJ
Retreat Title: Jesus Revealed
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 Mark's stories of Jesus’ Baptism, Transfiguration, and Resurrection, we can come to understand Jesus' life among us and for us, and how our individual stories are united to His Story by God’s grace.
Groups Attending: Roche Zera Group, Mary Seat of Wisdom, St. Mary Buffalo Grove Knights & Men's Club, Individuals
March 10-12, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. Brad Held, SJ
Retreat Title: The Mountaintop: The Place Where God Dwells
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: St. Isaac Jogues (Hinsdale), Walsh Jesuit High School Alumni, Saint Ignatius College Prep Alumni & Parents, Individuals
March 24-26, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. Joseph Simmons, SJ
Retreat Title: A Long, Loving Look at the Real: Encountering God in a Distracted World
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: St. Vincent Ferrer (River Forest), Individuals
March 31-April 2, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. Paul Macke, SJ
Retreat Title: Accepting God's Love Takes Courage
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: Knights of Columbus, St. Catherine of Sienna (Dundee), Individuals
February 3-5, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Women
Retreat Master:
Ms. Jenene Francis
Retreat Title: Toward Greater Freedom: An Ignatian Journey through Prayer
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: Saint Ignatius College Prep Alumni & Parents, Individuals
April 4, 2023 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
An Evening of Reflection for Women
Retreat Master:
Nancy Hulsebosch
Retreat Title: Mary's Way of the Cross
Program Cost: $50.00 (includes Dinner)
April 28-30, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Women
Retreat Master:
Fr. Mitch Pacwa, SJ
Retreat Title: Praying with the Psalms: How can God use a sinner like me?
Why isn't the Church filled with saints? During this retreat, we will reflect on Jesus' mission to sinners and the way that He transforms them step by step, beginning with the apostles and continuing into the present time. The goal will be to see ourselves in the lives of the first disciples and their own relationship with Jesus Christ.
Groups Attending: St Mary of Vernon (Vernon Hills), Individuals
May 12, 2023 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Women
Retreat Masters:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
and
Rachel Forton
Retreat Title: Holy is Her Name
Spend a day in the presence of other women getting in touch with the feminine qualities of God as we explore what it means to say "holy is Her name." As women, we do ourselves a disservice if we only ever relate to a male image of God. We know that God is without gender and encompasses all the masculine and feminine qualities of humanity. Imagining a feminine God helps us view our own femininity as sacred and precious. We will draw from Scripture (where God is referred to as a mother hen, midwife, laboring woman, and more), the words of holy women such as Julian of Norwich and Hildegard of Bingen, and the work of numerous women theologians and spiritual writers. Join us as we share prayer experiences designed to open our hearts to new ways of seeing God within and around us.
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Lunch)
December 7, 2022 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
Retreat Title: A Cup of Christmas Tea: Stories, Poems, Songs & Traditions
Fr. Michael brings his favorite stories, poems, songs and traditions surrounding this most beloved season of the year. This is a day to soften the heart and open your spirit to the soulful, creative celebration of the Word made flesh, the birth of our Savior.
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Lunch)
This retreat is currently at capacity or registration is closed. Please call the office at 847.381.1261 with questions.
December 15, 2022 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. Mark Henninger, SJ
and
Nancy Hulsebosch
Retreat Title: Heralds of Hope
Advent is a season of hope, expectancy, and joyful preparation as we anticipate the coming of Christ. How might Jesus be inviting us to nurture His presence within? Enjoy a day of prayer and quiet reflection as we contemplate how we might make room for the Lord with faithful and grateful hearts.
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Lunch)
January 3-6, 2023
Private Retreat Days for Adults
Retreat Master:
To Be Determined
Retreat Title: Personalized Retreat Days
A personalized retreat with you in mind. Do you need to unwind from the holidays or gear up for the year ahead? Spend a few days at Bellarmine doing what YOU need to begin the year with peace of mind. Daily Mass, delicious meals, cozy rooms, a wood-burning fireplace, and 80 serene acres await. Come and make your own sacred time at Bellarmine's sacred spaces.
One night: $160
More than than one night: $140/night
Single Overnight Cost: $160.00
Cost: $160.00/day
January 16, 2023 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. Joshua Peters, SJ
and
Eric Styles
Retreat Title: Martin Luther King, Jr. - Racism, Reconciliation, and Hope
Join us in a day focused on prayer, song, and sacred scripture that grounds our commitment to the Beloved Community in a faith that looks upon the world with open eyes, seeing God's grace. The work of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. continues with us. Even in a divided world, we trust that shared experience will lead to what Ignatius called "God's deepening life in us."
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Dinner)
February 2, 2023 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm (Central Time)
A Virtual Evening of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Roc O'Connor, SJ
Retreat Title: Making the Most of Lent - Virtual Retreat
Like Groundhog Day, it sometimes feels like we repeat the same liturgical seasons over and over again without growing much in our faith. Join Fr. Roc for this virtual evening retreat and explore ways to break out of the monotony and make the most of this Lenten season.
Program Cost: $30.00
February 5, 2023 8:00 am to 6:30 pm
A Veteran's Coming Home Retreat for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
and
Team of Veterans
Retreat Title: Veterans' Coming Home Retreat
All veterans and their adult family members are welcome for reflection on the transitions to and from military life. You’ll spend a day with others who understand what you’ve experienced.
February 10-12, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
Retreat Title: Discerning Your Decision
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
February 22, 2023 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
and
Terri Davis Hayden
Retreat Title: The Journey to Easter: The Passion and Resurrection According to John
Jump start your Lent this year with a profound encounter with the Passion and Resurrection narratives as told in John’s gospel. Fr Michael will dramatize the scripture and reflect on its meaning in our lives today. Terri will touch our souls with Christian hymns new and old. This is a day you won’t want to miss as these two veteran performers use their gifts to help us open our hearts and minds to the depth of Jesus’ love for us.
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Lunch)
February 24-26, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. Al Johnson
and
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
Retreat Title: What are the Spiritual Exercises?
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: Sts. Peter & Paul, St. Thomas, & St. Raphael (Naperville), Individuals
March 2-5, 2023
A 4-Day Ignatian, Silent Retreat for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Keith Muccino, SJ
Retreat Title: Greater Things Than These You Shall Do
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
March 13, 2023 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Brad Held, SJ
Retreat Title: Lenten Day of Reflection
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Lunch)
April 3-6, 2023
Private Retreat Days for Adults
Retreat Master:
Bellarmine Jesuit Ministry Team and Additional Spiritual Directors
Retreat Title: Silent Private Retreats
Come to enjoy the quiet of Bellarmine before the busy holiday season. Spiritual Direction is available upon request. Otherwise, enjoy the time to pray, rest and enjoy the serenity of the house and grounds.
Cost: $160.00/day
April 6-8, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Roc O'Connor, SJ
Retreat Title: The Triduum: Entering into the Mystery of Christ
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
April 14-16, 2023
An Ignatian, Silent Weekend Retreat for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Jim Kubicki, SJ
Retreat Title: 'Be Merciful as Your Father is Merciful' (Luke 6:36)
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
May 5-7, 2023
An Ignatian, Semi-Silent Weekend Retreat for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Bobby Karle, SJ
Retreat Title: Ignatian Spirituality & Yoga
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
May 21, 2023 8:00 am to 6:30 pm
A Veteran's Coming Home Retreat for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
and
Team of Veterans
Retreat Title: Veterans' Coming Home Retreat
All veterans and their adult family members are welcome for reflection on the transitions to and from military life. You’ll spend a day with others who understand what you’ve experienced.
June 17, 2023 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Dan Hartnett, SJ
Retreat Title: Spanish Day of Prayer: La Humilidad de Dios
Puede sonar extraño hablar de la “humildad” de Dios. Si nos fijamos en la imagen de Dios que ha sido revelado en la persona de Jesús, vemos efectivamente que Dios es, antes que nada, humilde, cercano y sencillo. Durante este día de oración, trataremos de purificar nuestras imágenes de Dios, concentrándonos tanto en la belleza de la creación como en el misterio de la encarnación. Si llegamos a conocer el rostro humilde de nuestro Dios, nos quedará más claro cómo hemos de ser imagen de Dios y cómo ser discípulo de Jesús.
Favor de registrarse de antemano. Es necesario para que haya comida suficiente en el almuerzo y para cumplir con las normas de distanciamiento social. Gracias!
Program Cost: There is no cost for this retreat; free will donations accepted. Se aceptan donaciones. (includes Lunch)
April 21-23, 2023
An Ignatian, Semi-Silent Weekend Retreat for Couples
Retreat Master:
Fr. Christopher Manahan, SJ
Retreat Title: Breaking Bread Together
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
December 9-11, 2022
An Ignatian, Recovery Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Fr. Tom Weston, SJ
Retreat Title: Simplicity, Recovery, and Service
Reflections and conversations on the 12 Steps 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
March 17-19, 2023
An Ignatian, Recovery Weekend Retreat for Men
Retreat Master:
Elizabeth Neubauer
Retreat Title: Stage Two Recovery: Happy, Joyous and Free
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
December 7, 2022 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
Retreat Title: A Cup of Christmas Tea: Stories, Poems, Songs & Traditions
Fr. Michael brings his favorite stories, poems, songs and traditions surrounding this most beloved season of the year. This is a day to soften the heart and open your spirit to the soulful, creative celebration of the Word made flesh, the birth of our Savior.
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Lunch)
This retreat is currently at capacity or registration is closed. Please call the office at 847.381.1261 with questions.
December 15, 2022 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. Mark Henninger, SJ
and
Nancy Hulsebosch
Retreat Title: Heralds of Hope
Advent is a season of hope, expectancy, and joyful preparation as we anticipate the coming of Christ. How might Jesus be inviting us to nurture His presence within? Enjoy a day of prayer and quiet reflection as we contemplate how we might make room for the Lord with faithful and grateful hearts.
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Lunch)
January 16, 2023 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. Joshua Peters, SJ
and
Eric Styles
Retreat Title: Martin Luther King, Jr. - Racism, Reconciliation, and Hope
Join us in a day focused on prayer, song, and sacred scripture that grounds our commitment to the Beloved Community in a faith that looks upon the world with open eyes, seeing God's grace. The work of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. continues with us. Even in a divided world, we trust that shared experience will lead to what Ignatius called "God's deepening life in us."
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Dinner)
February 2, 2023 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm (Central Time)
A Virtual Evening of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Roc O'Connor, SJ
Retreat Title: Making the Most of Lent - Virtual Retreat
Like Groundhog Day, it sometimes feels like we repeat the same liturgical seasons over and over again without growing much in our faith. Join Fr. Roc for this virtual evening retreat and explore ways to break out of the monotony and make the most of this Lenten season.
Program Cost: $30.00
February 22, 2023 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
and
Terri Davis Hayden
Retreat Title: The Journey to Easter: The Passion and Resurrection According to John
Jump start your Lent this year with a profound encounter with the Passion and Resurrection narratives as told in John’s gospel. Fr Michael will dramatize the scripture and reflect on its meaning in our lives today. Terri will touch our souls with Christian hymns new and old. This is a day you won’t want to miss as these two veteran performers use their gifts to help us open our hearts and minds to the depth of Jesus’ love for us.
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Lunch)
March 13, 2023 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Brad Held, SJ
Retreat Title: Lenten Day of Reflection
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Lunch)
April 4, 2023 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
An Evening of Reflection for Women
Retreat Master:
Nancy Hulsebosch
Retreat Title: Mary's Way of the Cross
Program Cost: $50.00 (includes Dinner)
May 12, 2023 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Women
Retreat Masters:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
and
Rachel Forton
Retreat Title: Holy is Her Name
Spend a day in the presence of other women getting in touch with the feminine qualities of God as we explore what it means to say "holy is Her name." As women, we do ourselves a disservice if we only ever relate to a male image of God. We know that God is without gender and encompasses all the masculine and feminine qualities of humanity. Imagining a feminine God helps us view our own femininity as sacred and precious. We will draw from Scripture (where God is referred to as a mother hen, midwife, laboring woman, and more), the words of holy women such as Julian of Norwich and Hildegard of Bingen, and the work of numerous women theologians and spiritual writers. Join us as we share prayer experiences designed to open our hearts to new ways of seeing God within and around us.
Program Cost: $65.00 (includes Lunch)
June 17, 2023 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Retreat Master:
Fr. Dan Hartnett, SJ
Retreat Title: Spanish Day of Prayer: La Humilidad de Dios
Puede sonar extraño hablar de la “humildad” de Dios. Si nos fijamos en la imagen de Dios que ha sido revelado en la persona de Jesús, vemos efectivamente que Dios es, antes que nada, humilde, cercano y sencillo. Durante este día de oración, trataremos de purificar nuestras imágenes de Dios, concentrándonos tanto en la belleza de la creación como en el misterio de la encarnación. Si llegamos a conocer el rostro humilde de nuestro Dios, nos quedará más claro cómo hemos de ser imagen de Dios y cómo ser discípulo de Jesús.
Favor de registrarse de antemano. Es necesario para que haya comida suficiente en el almuerzo y para cumplir con las normas de distanciamiento social. Gracias!
Program Cost: There is no cost for this retreat; free will donations accepted. Se aceptan donaciones. (includes Lunch)
February 5, 2023 8:00 am to 6:30 pm
A Veteran's Coming Home Retreat for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
and
Team of Veterans
Retreat Title: Veterans' Coming Home Retreat
All veterans and their adult family members are welcome for reflection on the transitions to and from military life. You’ll spend a day with others who understand what you’ve experienced.
May 21, 2023 8:00 am to 6:30 pm
A Veteran's Coming Home Retreat for Adults
Retreat Masters:
Fr. J. Michael Sparough, SJ
and
Team of Veterans
Retreat Title: Veterans' Coming Home Retreat
All veterans and their adult family members are welcome for reflection on the transitions to and from military life. You’ll spend a day with others who understand what you’ve experienced.