FINDING JOY AND MEANING THROUGH PRAYER, MEDITATION, AND CONTEMPLATION

PRESENTED BY CARL MCCOLMAN

October 30-31st, 2026
Friday 7–9 p.m.
Saturday 9:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
In Person or Online

Whether you are an absolute beginner at prayer or have been nurturing your inner life for many years, the Holy Spirit continues to invite us deeper. This retreat is for people at all levels of faith and spiritual practice—anyone who desires to go deeper and spend time with others seeking the loving presence of God. Together, we will explore how prayer, meditation, and contemplation can open our hearts more fully to God’s presence, deepen our awareness of grace in everyday life, and help us discover greater joy, meaning, and peace along the spiritual journey.

Friday Evening: The Three Elements of a Balanced Spiritual Life
Drawing from ancient and contemporary sources, we will reflect on the three main “doorways” into spiritual life.

Saturday: Spiritual Guidance from Monks, Nuns, and Mystics
The best guides to the spiritual life are those who have lived it deeply themselves—including great monks, nuns, and mystics whose writings offer insight into how we can grow in our relationship with God.

About Carl McColman: Carl McColman is a long-time friend of the Oratory, a spiritual director, and a contemplative writer based in Atlanta. His books include The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism and Read the Bible Like a Mystic.

Suggested Donation: $60
Overnight Accommodations: Limited availability Friday night — $45

You can make a donation in person on the day of the event, or click the link below to make a donation online. When making your donation, please specify that it is for “Spirituality Beyond the Basics.” Make Donation >>