Spirutual

Dowdstown House offers peace and tranquillity to all who come here. Its ancient trees, pastoral landscape and river walks make it an ideal venue for directed, preached, guided and private retreats. Below is our spiritual programme for 2007 - 2008.
The Gift Of Our Own Uniqueness

This short course of five consecutive nights leads participants to a deep understanding of who they really are. It will help one to discover ones own beauty and giftedness at the core of ones being. This is an inward journey in a gentle and loving environment.

Begins: Tuesday, November 6th, 8pm
Facilitator: Rose Sloan, RSM
Cost: €50
John Main Meditation

Communing with God in the silence of ones own heart where God dwells. “Silence is the language of God. In meditation we leave all words aside and learn to be still, still in body, still in mind, still in spirit”. John Main.

Begins: Tuesday, September 24th, 8 - 8.45pm.
John Main Meditation for Beginners

This is an opportunity to begin the journey of meditation, for interested persons, at guided pace. Come along and find out about this ancient way of prayer for our busy world today.

Begins: Tuesday, September 25th, 8 - 8.45pm.
Prayer Days

Date: October 16th, 2007, 10.30am – 4pm.
Facilitator: Fr. Oli Kennedy.

Dates: March 5th and 6th, 2008.
Facilitator: To be confirmed.
Prayer Days for Religious

Date: October 16th, 2007, 10.30am – 4pm.
Facilitator: Fr. Oli Kennedy.

Date: March 4th, 2008, 10.30am – 4pm.
Facilitator: To be confirmed.
Twilight Retreat

Date: Monday, December 17th, 7.30pm – 10pm.
Facilitator: Fr. Oli Kennedy.
Six Day Conference / Retreat on St. Paul

Dates: July 20th – 26th, 2008.
Facilitator: Dr Joseph O’Hanlon. Further details later.
Week of Guided Prayer
Begins: Spring 2008.
Participants agree to spend some time each day reflecting on a passage of scripture. This may be at home or in any quiet place of their choice. They meet with their Prayer Guide for about one half hour each day at a time of their choice
Forward in Faith

Have you ever been at a loss to articulate an aspect of the faith you hold dear – perhaps at your own dinner table, at work or in a social context. How can we be more comfortable in speaking about our faith and in handing it on to our children or others who are genuinely searching? This course offers an opportunity to reflect together on the life we live in this 21st Century and what gives meaning and purpose to that life now and into the future. Ireland is now a country of many faiths and none. Today, our silence is not enough. Opportunities will be offered to develop and enrich our relationship with the Lord in prayer based on the word of God. This course is open to all and may be of special relevance to those involved in any ministry or liturgical group within the local Parish.

Begins: Wednesday, September 26th, 8pm – 10pm.
Lectio Divina (Sacred Reading of Scripture)

The basic principle of Lectio Divina is that Scripture / Bible Reading is a personal encounter with God. In this method of prayer we come face to face with the word speaking in our lives. Lectio works well in small groups, in parished and communities in their own area. To begin a group some facilitation is required. Facilitation is offered by members of the Dowdstown House Staff. Contact our office for details.
Pre or Post Confirmation Retreat
A day of reflection for young people in Sixth Class as they prepare for Second Level. The day helps them focus on the working of the Spirit in their young lives and refreshes their learnings in preparation for the Sacrament.
(By arrangement with the office)
Weekend Contemplative Retreat
(for 18 - 36 years of age)
Retreats are held approximately once a month and include Contemplation, Adoration, Devine Office, Quiet Prayer & Reflection, Lecto Divina, Eucharist.
Director: Una Kearney. Ph. 090 6481666
Preparation for Ministries in Parish

(1) Special Ministers of the Word
How to proclaim the Word of God so it can touch the heart of the listener. This course is offered to help participants improve the understanding of the importance of he Ministry – to provide helpful hints and skills for proclaiming God’s Word to the assembly. It is open to new and experienced Ministers. 3-4 Sessions.

(2) Special Ministers of the Eucharist
Introductory Programme. 4 Sessions.

(3) Basic Course for Persons involved in Liturgy Groups in Parished
What is the role of the Liturgy Group? Where to begin?
Structure of the Mass. How to plan for the Sunday Eucharist.
Special Liturgical Feasts – Holy Week, Easter etc.

The above programme or part thereof may be set up at Dowdstown House or at Parish or Deanery level depending on numbers etc.

General Information

One Day Retreats

Cost: Residential €60, Non-residential €35

Registration at 10am on the morning of the retreat.
Departure at 4pm.

Six Day Retreats

Cost: Residential €320

Registration from 7pm - 8pm.
Opening session 8.30pm.
Departure after lunch on closing day.

Weekend Retreats and Workshops

Cost: Residential €145, Non-residential €90.

Registration from 7.30pm - 8pm, Friday.
Opening session 8.30pm.
Departure after lunch on Sunday.

Booking Your Retreat

To book your Retreat at Dowdstown House Click Here to fill out the Application Form

You must forward a Deposit of €40 to The Secretary, Dowdstown House, Dalgan Pk, Navan, Co. Meath to secure your application for a retreat (non refundable). This will be deducted from the final amount. Please enclose a S.A.E. if a receipt is required.

For further enquiries you may ring the centre on 046 9021407 between 10am - 1pm or e-mail us at dowdstownhouse@eircom.net