Meditating with the Mystics: Hybrid Retreat (Rochester, MN: In-person or Zoom option available)
I’m delighted to be returning to the Sisters of Saint Francis in Assisi Heights (Rochester, MN) for a week-long retreat on “Meditating with the Mystics!” Several options for how you can participate: either online or in person in Minnesota, you can attend the entire week-long retreat or just register for the first or second half of the retreat. Here are the links:
- To Attend the Entire Retreat (May 14-20, 2026):
- To Attend Part One Only (May 14-17, 2026):
- To Attend Part Two Only (May 17-20, 2026):
Hope to see you there (whether “there” is in Minnesota or online)!
Here’s more information…
Meditating with the Mystics: (In-Person)
How Wisdom from the Past Inspires Spiritual Growth Today
Presenter: Carl McColman
Thursday, May 14 (6:30 pm) thru Wednesday, May 20 (Noon) Central Time
What do the great mystics of old have to teach us? Can we learn anything from spiritual teachers and visionaries of the past to help us grow in grace, healing, and spiritual wisdom today? The word “mystic” might seem intimidating, but it’s just a fancy word for cultivating a meaningful and experiential relationship with God — and that’s accessible to everyone. The wisdom of the mystics can help us find our path toward a loving and transforming relationship with the Spirit of Life. This retreat will combine spiritual exercises, body prayer, words of reflection, prayer prompts, and time for optional sharing and discussion, to support us all in our common calling: to grow deeper in our faith and spiritual practice, so that we may find not only greater joy for ourselves, but inspiration to bring healing and renewal to our world.
Part 1: Thursday evening, May 14 at 6:30 pm thru Sunday morning, May 17 at Noon:
Meditating with the Franciscan Mystics: Insight into a unique spiritual path from great wisdom teachers of the ages. From Francis and Clare to more modern figures like Thea Bowman, Ilia Delio and Richard Rohr, Franciscan spirituality is blessed with numerous amazing teachers; our retreat will celebrate their guidance and seek to pray as they have taught us.
Part 2: Sunday evening, May 17 at 6:30 pm thru Wednesday morning, May 20 at Noon:
Meditating with Great Women Mystics: From Julian of Norwich to Teresa of Avila, Evelyn Underhill to Cynthia Bourgeault, every century and generation has been blessed by wise and perceptive women whose depth of prayer can be inspiring for us all. Each conference will introduce one or two contemplative women and their timeless words of healing and encouragement.
About Our Presenter: Carl McColman is a writer, speaker, independent scholar, and spiritual director whose work explores mystical wisdom and contemplative living and how the wisdom of ancient visionaries can bring transformation to our lives today. His work is grounded in the Christian tradition, although he is a true spiritual eclectic who also finds grace and inspiration from Buddhist, indigenous, and other wisdom-keepers from around the world. Carl has authored numerous books, including Eternal Heart: the Mystical Path to a Joyful Life (2021), The New Big Book of Christian Mysticism (2023), and Read the Bible Like a Mystic (2025), which have received endorsements from leading voices in contemplative spirituality. His work is known for being accessible and optimistic, bridging the gap between ancient mystical traditions and modern spiritual seekers. In addition to his writing, he co-hosts the Encountering Silence podcast and regularly speaks and leads retreats on topics such as contemplative prayer and Celtic spirituality. His life’s work is dedicated to helping people find a more joyful and purposeful life through prayer, silence, and the wisdom of the mystics.
Carl will be in person at Assisi Heights hosting two conferences per day (livestreamed via Zoom), at 9:00 am & 3:00 pm, with Liturgy at 11:00 am. The full schedule will be sent with your registration confirmation.
Note: Assisi Heights is unable to provide overnight accommodations; however, you may contact us at 507-280-2195 for more information and recommendations for nearby lodging.
Invite Carl to speak to your community: Book an Event.