1.) How much does a weekend retreat cost?

A traditional weekend retreat at St. Paul's costs $165.00 and covers two nights’ accommodation, six meals, and all workshops and retreat programming. Since this is a break-even price, we encourage retreatants who can afford it to pay what they can above the requested stipend. At the same time, no one is turned away because of inability to pay, and those who cannot afford the $165.00 price are asked to pay what they can. 

2.) When are the retreats?

If you belong to a parish or group that makes a yearly retreat to St. Paul's, you will probably see announcements about upcoming retreats in your church bulletin. If not, you can call the retreat center at (412) 381-7676, e-mail us at stpaulrcpa@cpprov.org, or fill out our online information request form and we will send you a newsletter, which contains our retreat schedule for the 2002-2003 season.

 3.) What do I need to bring with me?

Bring what you'd bring to a hotel: we provide bedding, towels, and soap, but you should pack toiletries, casual clothing, reading material if you'd like – and maybe a late-night snack to share! (See question #10.)

 4.) Will I be sharing a room?

St. Paul's offers both single and double rooms. Generally, those who prefer a single room can be accommodated, but if we are expecting a very full house on a given weekend, guests will be asked if they're willing to double up. (An early reservation, along with a $40.00 deposit ($50.00 as of July 1, 2005), helps to ensure a single room.) Those who would like to share a room are welcome to do so: just request it, and list your roommate, on your reservation form.

5.) How do you dress for a retreat?

As mentioned above, casual, comfortable clothing is encouraged. Wear what you wear at home over the weekend.

6.) What do you do on retreat?

Take a look at the weekend schedule.  It looks like a busy weekend, but attendance at any and all events is optional.  Many retreatants take advantage of all programs and events, while others rest and meditate on their own, joining the group only for meals.  Some free time is built into the schedule, but if you prefer a walk in our garden to a workshop, that's fine.  Its your weekend.

7.) How's the food?

Really good, according to most guests. Our chef and his staff prepare traditional favorites such as baked fish, spaghetti and meatballs, and a generous Sunday brunch. All meals are served buffet style. Those with dietary concerns can be easily accommodated. Just call the retreat center shortly before your retreat weekend, or speak to the chef when you get here.

 8.) Are retreats open to men and women?

Yes, but not on the same weekend, generally speaking. Married couples and special retreats are offered throughout the year. In addition, several groups that rent our facility during the summer present co-ed retreats. Otherwise, we offer 19 traditional retreats for men and eight retreats for women during the retreat season, which runs from September to June. We also present two retreats for men and two retreats for women in recovery from substance abuse. These are held in the spring and fall.

   9.) Do I need to be a member of a parish or group to attend?

No. We welcome unaffiliated retreatants every retreat weekend. Sometimes they're veteran retreatants who were unable to come with their parish or group, but who still want to make a yearly retreat. Sometimes they're newcomers who have decided to experience St. Paul's on their own. If you're interested, consult the schedule, pick a convenient weekend, and call the retreat center at (412) 381-7676, email us at stpaulrcpa@cpprov.org.

10.) Is there any time during the weekend just to visit with friends?

After the scheduled events on Friday and Saturday evenings, many retreatants meet in the dining room for a late-night snack and conversation. Guests often bring snacks to share; in addition, coffee, tea, fruit, and other goodies are offered. Its a high point of the weekend for many retreatants.

10.) Will I be able to meet privately with a priest or associate?

Retreatants are offered the chance to sign up for a private consultation with Father Tom, Father Joe, or a ministry associate, usually sometime on Saturday of the retreat weekend.

11.) What is this year's theme?

With the new retreat season, comes a new retreat theme.