Walking up the long driveway to Loyola House, there’s an immediate sense of peace. Nestled within the 600-acre landscape of Ignatius Jesuit Centre in Guelph, this retreat house has welcomed seekers of all kinds for decades. Whether you come for an eight-day silent retreat, a weekend reflection, a day of quiet, or the month-long Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius, every visit here is a chance to slow down and reconnect—with yourself, with nature, and with the sacred.
Morning: Silence and Stillness
The day at Loyola House begins quietly. Many retreats here embrace silence as a way to deepen one’s inner awareness. Breakfast in the dining room is unhurried, with retreatants sharing space but often not conversation. There’s something profoundly restful about sipping tea while watching the morning light filter through the trees.
After breakfast, many retreatants meet with their spiritual director—an essential part of Ignatian retreats. These one-on-one sessions offer guidance on prayer and reflection, helping individuals notice where God is moving in their lives. For others, the morning might include personal prayer in the chapel or journaling in the lounge by the large windows overlooking the nearby fields.
Midday: Nature and Nourishment
One of the gifts of Loyola House is its deep connection to the land. Ignatius Farm, just a short walk from the retreat house, provides much of the fresh produce for meals. Lunch, always wholesome and thoughtfully prepared, is a reminder of this interconnectedness.
After eating, many retreatants take to the trails. The Old-Growth Forest Project, a protected space within the property, invites slow, contemplative walks. On a fall retreat, you might crunch through golden leaves; in the spring, the scent of earth and new growth fills the air.
For those on an Eco-Spirituality Retreat, this time might also include guided reflection on our relationship with creation. These retreats integrate Ignatian spirituality with ecological awareness, encouraging retreatants to find God in all things—including the rustling trees, the wind across the fields, and the quiet presence the creek that moves gently through the land.
Evening: Reflection and Rest
As the sun sets, the rhythm of the day invites deeper reflection. A communal gathering might take place—sometimes a guided meditation, a Taizé prayer service, or a simple invitation to sit with scripture. Those on silent retreats continue their quiet rhythm, perhaps journaling or reflecting on the day’s events.
The day ends as it began: in stillness. The simplicity of Loyola House, the gentle experience of the retreat, and the beauty of the land create a space where heads and hearts can truly rest.
For those seeking a deeper connection to self, spirit, and nature, a day—or several—at Loyola House offers just that. It’s not just time away; it’s a journey inward, supported by the wisdom of Ignatian tradition and the embrace of the natural world.
Interested in learning more? See what retreats we have scheduled or contact us directly to answer your questions.