FAQ: frequently asked questions
What is a preached weekend retreat?
A preached weekend retreat is a silent retreat led by Jesuits, shaped by Scripture and the Ignatian tradition. Through talks, prayer, and time for quiet, retreatants step away from daily demands and listen more attentively to God over the course of the weekend.
I’ve never made a retreat before. Is this right for me?
Yes. No experience is needed, and many of our retreatants come for the first time. The talks give each day a shape, the schedule tells you where to be, and a priest is always available if you have questions. All you need to bring is a willingness to slow down and listen.
Do I need to be Catholic?
No. All are welcome at Sacred Heart. Our retreats are rooted in the Catholic and Ignatian tradition, and daily Mass and confession are offered. Participation is your choice; you are welcome to pray in whatever way you are able.
What’s the difference between a preached retreat, a directed retreat, and a Day of Prayer?
• Preached weekend retreat: a group of retreatants hears talks by a Jesuit and prays in silence, Friday evening to Sunday afternoon.
• Individually directed retreat: you meet one-on-one each day with a spiritual director who suggests Scripture for your prayer. It runs three or five days: you arrive on the first day and depart on the last.
• Private retreat: you come on your own for quiet and rest, without talks or a director.
• Day of Prayer: a single day of talks, Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, and quiet prayer, from 9:00 AM to 2:45 PM. It’s ideal if a weekend away isn’t possible.
Do you offer retreats in Spanish?
Yes. Our Spanish-language weekend retreats follow the spirit of St. Ignatius, offering a space to recognize God’s voice in daily life through silence, contemplation, and prayer. Upcoming dates:
• November 20–22, 2026 (Friday 7:00 PM to Sunday 1:15 PM)
• February 5–7, 2027 (Friday 6:30 PM to Sunday 1:00 PM) See details and register on our weekend retreats page.
How much does a weekend retreat cost? What if cost is a concern?
The cost of each retreat is listed on its retreat page. A deposit reserves your place and is applied toward the total, with the balance due on or before arrival. Thanks to generous donors, partial scholarships are available. If you feel called to come but can’t cover the full cost, simply note this on your registration. Please don’t let cost keep you away.
How do I register? Each retreat on our weekend retreats page has its own sign-up link. You can also call the Sacred Heart office at (303) 688-4198, ext. 122, or email reservations@sacredheartretreat.org. Registration must be received at least two weeks before the retreat, and space is limited to about 40 retreatants, so we encourage you to register early.
What if I need to cancel?
We understand that plans change. Please note that deposits are non-refundable. If you need to cancel, let us know as soon as you can so we can offer your place to someone else.
Can my parish or group come together?
Yes, and we love when friends and parishioners make a retreat together. Many parishes have a retreat captain who helps organize a group for a weekend. To bring a parish group or become a retreat captain, contact us through sacredheartretreat.org.
What is the schedule for the weekend?
The retreat begins Friday with check-in at 7:00 PM and the first talk at 7:30 PM. Dinner is not served Friday, so please eat before you arrive. Saturday follows a rhythm of talks, quiet prayer, Mass, shared meals, Eucharistic Adoration, and time for rest. Sunday brings two final talks and Mass, and the retreat concludes with lunch, with departure at 1:00 PM. Topics vary by retreat. See the full sample schedule.
Can I arrive late or leave early?
Yes, late arrivals and early departures are fine. Contact our office to make arrangements. Come for as much of the weekend as you can.
What does “silent” mean? Can I use my phone?
Our retreats are kept in silence to foster a spirit of peace and prayer, so that each person has room to listen to God. Silence can feel unfamiliar at first, but most retreatants find it is the gift of the weekend. You are always free to speak with a Jesuit or staff member. Wi-Fi is available. If you need to make a phone call, we ask that you step outside so as not to disturb others.
Can I talk with a priest or receive spiritual direction?
Yes. On Saturday from 1:00 to 3:00 PM, Jesuits are available for 15-minute one-on-one spiritual conversations. From 4:00 to 5:00 PM, during Eucharistic Adoration, Jesuits are available for confession.
What is there to do in free time?
The house sits on acres of land with walking trails, and has two chapels for prayer: a large chapel on the east end and a smaller one on the south end. Our library and bookstore are also open to retreatants.
What are the accommodations and meals like?
Retreatants stay in private rooms that are simple, clean, and comfortable, designed to support rest and quiet. The house offers natural wood and stone spaces, a peaceful atmosphere, and accessible facilities for those who use wheelchairs or walkers. Meals are prepared with care from fresh, wholesome ingredients, served from Saturday breakfast through Sunday lunch, with coffee and light snacks available throughout the weekend. Dietary needs and food allergies can be accommodated; please note them when you register.
Can I come with my spouse? Can we share a room?
Yes, you are welcome to make a retreat together. Rooms are modest, clean, newly remodelled. A limited number of shared rooms are available, so please contact the Sacred Heart office at (303) 688-4198, ext. 122, when making your reservation.
Is there a minimum age?
Retreatants must be at least 18. If you are a parent and would like to bring your child on retreat, please contact the Sacred Heart office at (303) 688-4198, ext. 122.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable, casual clothing for quiet indoor time and outdoor walks, with layers for changing mountain temperatures. Many retreatants also bring a journal, a Bible, and a book for spiritual reading. Bed linens, towels, and soap are provided.
Where are you located, and how do I get here?
We are at 4801 North Highway 67, Sedalia, Colorado, in the foothills south of Denver. Typical drive times without traffic are about 30 to 40 minutes from downtown Denver, about an hour from Denver International Airport, and about an hour from Colorado Springs. If you are flying in without a car, take an airport shuttle from Denver International Airport to Castle Rock, then an Uber to Sacred Heart. If you are driving, there is plenty of free parking at the retreat house. In winter, check road conditions before you leave and allow extra time. At our elevation, drinking plenty of water helps you feel your best.
How can I support Sacred Heart?
Your gifts make it possible for others to come on retreat, including those who need a scholarship. You can give online here or by mail to Sacred Heart Retreat House, P.O. Box 185, Sedalia, CO 80135-0185. You can also help by telling a friend about us, bringing your parish group, or becoming a retreat captain. Above all, we are grateful for your prayers