Retreats that celebrate silence
Judy McEvoy from Bellrose takes the Restorative Yoga class offered at Yoga at Inisfada held at St. Ignatius Retreat House in Manhassett. (Nov. 15, 2012) Credit: Barbara Alper
It may be to deal with the grief of losing a loved one, reflect in prayer or to just get away from the maddening rush of our busy society -- silent retreats offer a solace that can only be found in long periods of quiet.
"We have such a noisy culture," says Sister Margaret Rohde, director of Cenacle Retreat Center in Ronkonkoma. "Silence is a way to connect with our deepest self."
The places to go for silent reflection range from a magnificent mansion run by Jesuit priests to a small but homey residence in Mount Sinai hosted by friars.It is best for beginners to do a short-term silent program -- perhaps a few hours -- before a three-day retreat, Sister Margaret advises. While most of the retreats are based in a particular religion, they are open to all.
Huntington resident Jean Kelly, a regular retreat-goer, agrees that a short program at first is best. Kelly has done retreats for as long as three weeks, but more often three or four days. "It's a very blissful state," she says.
Many retreat houses allow anyone on the property to walk the grounds, but to stay overnight or participate in other programs, reservations are required. Silent retreats are often "directed," meaning there is interaction with a spiritual adviser. But most of the day, including meals, are spent in silence.If you're ready to enter a world of no chatter, here are three options:
251 Searingtown Rd., Manhasset
310 Cenacle Rd., Ronkonkoma
The feeling of quiet comes upon visitors as they drive up to the retreat house. Among its unique characteristics is a chapel with stunning stained glass windows. The grounds are perfect for a long contemplative walk.
Bay Street, Sag Harbor
On Feb. 1-3, the retreat will hold a program called "Listen to the Snow," described as a contemplative weekend in silence ($180). If you're not ready for a overnight retreat, Cormaria holds a dinner and time for "quiet reflection" evening prayer from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month from now until June. Admission is by donation.
There are many retreats which are either nondenominational or are not necessarily held entirely in silence, but where contemplation and prayer are still important.
46 S. Middle Neck Rd., Great Neck
Part of the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual Organization, the retreat center is open to the public for day workshops, including meditation and yoga practice. There is no cost for the retreats.
79 County Line Rd. Amityville
The nondenominational day retreat center is part of an international organization with more than 500 centers worldwide. It often holds meditation in silence and does not charge as part of its spiritual journey, says Jim Rose.
