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Welcome to Loyola House Retreat Centre
Loyola House at Ignatius Jesuit Centre in Guelph, Ontario, is a spiritual retreat centre known internationally for its leadership in Ignatian spirituality and spiritual direction. Nestled within the 600-acre grounds at IJC, Loyola House provides a peaceful and supportive environment where individuals and groups can step away from the busyness of daily life and enter into deeper reflection, prayer, and renewal.
A Place for Silence, Prayer, and Transformation
At the heart of Loyola House is a commitment to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola. These retreats, offered in both the classic 30-day format and shorter adaptations, invite participants into a profound experience of personal prayer and discernment. Through daily spiritual direction, spacious silence, and a rhythm of contemplative living, retreatants are guided to encounter God in a deeply personal and transformative way.
Loyola House is rooted in the Jesuit tradition of spiritual accompaniment. Spiritual Directors are trained to support people of various spiritual backgrounds and life experiences, meeting each person where they are with compassion and care.
A Variety of Retreat Experiences
In addition to Ignatian retreats, Loyola House offers themed retreats that explore the intersection of spirituality, ecology, creativity, and social justice. Programs may include:
- Silent Directed Retreats – Personalized retreats with one-on-one spiritual direction.
- Training Programs in Spiritual Direction – For those discerning a call to accompany others on their spiritual journey.
- Eco-Spirituality Retreats – Reflecting on our relationship with creation and the sacredness of the land.
- Contemplative Retreats and Workshops – Centered on stillness, imagination, and inner freedom.
Whether you’re seeking clarity, healing, inspiration, or rest, Loyola House offers a sacred space to listen deeply—both to yourself and to the Spirit.
Hospitality That Supports the Soul
The experience at Loyola House is supported by the hospitality of the staff and the simplicity of the space. With comfortable rooms, nourishing meals—sourced locally, even from the on-site Ignatius Farm—and expansive trails through forest, meadows, and along the Marden Creek, the environment itself invites presence and attentiveness.
Groups and organizations can also book Loyola House for their own retreats or facilitated programs. Our team is here to help create a reflective and meaningful experience for each group’s unique needs.
Stillness in the Heart of Nature
St. Brigid’s Villa is a serene, self-contained retreat space nestled within the Ignatius Jesuit Centre’s expansive natural surroundings. Located just a short walk from Loyola House, the Villa offers a versatile environment ideal for small group gatherings, workshops, or personal reflection. Equipped with a full kitchen and seating for up to 45 people, it provides a peaceful setting for those seeking a quiet, contemplative atmosphere amidst nature.
