Spring Retreat Day and Weekend

Saturday 24th October 2026
10.00am to 4.00pm

The Cottage, St Benedict’s Monastery
121 Arcadia Road, Arcadia

Led by Bethany South and Jenn Pearson

Join us for our Retreat Day or Weekend at St Benedict’s Monastery.

We invite you to join us for a relaxed day or longer to pause, to savour, to relish, and restore your soul and spirit at the monastery, an oasis of peace in beautiful countryside with bush paddocks, a large dam and an outdoor labyrinth.   The Retreat Day offers the opportunity to reconnect with ourselves through rest and sacred reading; with others over a shared meal and through thoughtful conversation; with nature through contemplative walking and with the transcendent through prayerful silence, together and in solitude. See details below about the option to stay overnight Friday and/ or Saturday.

Participants will be offered considered input, gentle facilitation, and room for their own reflection. Enjoy ‘holy leisure’ as you walk the labyrinth, enjoy the grounds and share your insights with others, nourishing your body and soul.

Morning tea and lunch are provided.

Cost: $65 ($55 for Eremos members). $5 less for bookings by 15 September.

Numbers are limited, so please register soon and no later than 14 October 2026. 

Bethany South is an experienced retreat leader, a member of the Eremos Retreat Team and the Australian Network for Spiritual Direction (ANSD). Bethany is inspired by the rhythms of life and the Jewish Sabbath and seeks to offer gentle and hospitable spaces for reflection and conversation.

Jenn Pearson has offered spiritual accompaniment and care to people across all life stages over many decades and in varying roles. Jenn has a Grad. Dip. in Spiritual Direction, is a member of Eremos and ANSD, and is inspired by Christ’s invitation to “get away… take a real rest... learn the unforced rhythms of grace” (Matt 11:28-29 TMB).

Extend your time at St Benedict's 

Overnight/weekend option  You are welcome to enjoy simple comfortable accommodation for Friday and/ or Saturday night along with the Retreat Day. Accommodation is limited and preference will be given to those travelling long distances and/or seeking to stay for 2 nights.

The cost is $70 per night for a private room, $60 per person for a shared room (2 twin beds). Eremos members: $10 less per night. You will need to bring your own single bed sheets and towels. 

Includes Friday and Saturday dinners and Sunday lunch. Please bring your own breakfast food if possible. Fresh milk and fruit will be provided.  

Weekend program for those staying overnight

The full weekend program includes ample space for your own reflection, rest and quiet time. There is an option of attending some of the prayer times with the Benedictine monks in their chapel.

Here's a snapshot of the schedule (subject to change)

• Arrive from 4pm Friday,
• Dinner around 6 pm both evenings.
• An opportunity to gather after dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings.
• Morning session on Sunday about 9:30 am
• Sunday lunch followed by a closing circle and blessing
• Depart by 2 pm. 

When registering, select the appropriate accommodation product. If you choose a shared room, register both people. 

Any difficulties or questions, please contact us on events@eremos.org.au