3 Day Silent Retreat

This three-day silent retreat at Rivendell Retreat Centre on Bowen Island, British Columbia, offers space to rest, pray, be in nature and deepen a spiritual life. It is rooted in contemplative prayer and spiritual direction, and it suits anyone looking for a quiet silent retreat near Vancouver's coast, whether for reflection, prayer or simple restoration. Leadership comes from Kathi Bentall and Margaret McAvity, both spiritual directors and experienced retreat leaders.

What to Expect

The retreat begins on the first day with arrival in the afternoon and an introduction to silence that evening. From there, you are invited to shape each day as you feel led. There is no fixed program to follow. The retreats are individually directed, and the themes for the daily gatherings emerge from the group rather than being set in advance.

The middle days are open for rest, prayer and time in nature. Spiritual direction is offered daily, and a group gathering takes place at 5pm each day. Meals are shared in silence, so the quiet continues through the table as well as the hours between. The retreat closes on the fourth morning, with departure by noon.

About Kathi Bentall and Margaret McAvity

Kathi Bentall and Margaret McAvity organize and lead the silent retreats at Rivendell. Both are spiritual directors and experienced retreat leaders. Their approach is to accompany each person individually while letting the group's own concerns guide the daily gatherings.

The Setting

Rivendell Retreat Centre sits on Bowen Island, in British Columbia, Canada. Each guest has a private room with a private washroom, which has either a shower or a tub, and all linens are provided. Meals are healthy yet simple, and they are eaten in shared silence. Arrival is after 3pm on the first day, and departure is by 12 noon on the last.

Before You Go

No prior experience with silent retreats is described as necessary. The retreat is open to people seeking space for rest, prayer and spiritual reflection. It is held in English.

Included are your private room and washroom, all linens, simple healthy meals, daily spiritual direction, the daily 5pm group gathering and facilitation by both leaders. Travel to and from the centre is your own to arrange.

The cost of food and facilitation is set at a daily rate. For the private room, guests give what they can generously, knowing the centre's running costs are considerable. A non-refundable registration fee is taken at the time of registration, and the remaining payment is made at the centre by cheque, cash or e-transfer.