Spiritual Direction

Throughout life, we often find ourselves at a crossroad: facing a life transition, a change, or even a crisis. We sense God is in the experience or inviting us to a deeper place or to greater intimacy, but we are having difficulty identifying, articulating, or staying with the spiritual movements that are taking place. At those times, we recognize the need for a process: the need for a spiritual companion, someone to journey with us as we take a long, loving look at our lives.

Here at Mariandale, our spiritual directors are trained and experienced to walk with you in either private sessions or in group spiritual direction. Whether you are experiencing an empty nest, loss of job, retirement, healing from sexual, physical or emotional abuse, addiction recovery, sexual identity issues, relationship challenges, or one of the many other symptomatic experiences of this complicated modern time and culture, our spiritual directors are trained in "deep listening" and helping you to engage with and see how God is in the "stuff" of your everyday life.

You need not participate in any program, retreat or other activity at the retreat house to use our spiritual direction services.

Wellness Services

Our wellness services are modalities that also facilitate transformation. Whether you opt for a massage, a reiki session, participate in t'ai chi, yoga, or integrated energy work, we believe it is a way to deep healing. Done in a sacred atmosphere of safety and respect, you will become more fully in touch with your body and its energy systems. All complementary therapies are done by certified therapists who help you to facilitate your own healing processes.

Wellness service are by appointment and you may access the services on retreat or simply by calling ahead.

Art Experiences

We believe that an artistic experience is another wonderful way to process material and access the unconscious. You might play with clay in the Potter's House or choose to make a collage or watercolor in our Creativity Corner -- they are all part of transformational work that allow for the free and uninhibited expression of our deeper selves. Our spaces for artistic expression are not meant for the profession but for those who allow themselves to dabble and play freely, knowing that God speaks to us through many media. The paths to inner freedom are many and art is one of the best means.