Ora et Labora Retreats

You can pray while you work. Work doesn’t stop prayer and prayer doesn’t stop work. It requires only that small raising of the mind to him: I love you God, I trust you, I believe in you, I need you now. Small things like that. They are wonderful prayers.

St Teresa of Calcutta

Come participate in “Ora et Labora,” the Benedictine motto of prayer and work, offering up your labor on behalf of Richmond Hill in a spirit of prayer, while also having time to join us in our weekend rhythm of prayer, hospitality, and fellowship.

You would serve as a volunteer co-host alongside a resident in offering hospitality for our retreat groups. Retreat groups typically begin arriving at 4pm on Fridays and depart by 4pm on Sundays, and we would ask you to be present for either 24 or 48-hrs depending on the weekend needs and your availability. You would stay overnight in one of our individual retreat rooms and your meals will be provided.

In exchange for your room and meals, you would help us welcome guests, help with dishes following meals, and other tidying and hospitality related tasks. You would enjoy time on personal retreat in between hosting responsibilities.

If you are interested in signing up to come on a co-hosting retreat, please complete the form below or reach out to Sheryl Johnson (sjohnson@richmondhillva.org).