Spiritual Workshops, Retreats, and Pilgrimages
Into the Land of Carmel
With the saints of Carmel as our guides, we will explore the origins of Carmel, our living tradition, and the nature of contemplation and prayer.
2018 Christmas Brunch
A festive brunch will be followed by a presentation looking at the birth of Christ, and his continued presence in our lives.
St. Teresa of Avila Retreat Day
During this day of recollection, we will follow St. Teresa of Avila on her journey through the castle. As she tells her story, Teresa becomes a guide for our own life of prayer.
Into the Land of Carmel 2019
July 14-19, 2019 – With the saints of Carmel as our guides, we will explore the origins of Carmel, our living tradition, and the nature of contemplation and prayer.
Preached Retreat: Exploring the Interior Castle
We will explore the gift of contemplative prayer, obstacles to prayer, and the loving tether of God that draws us to our created purpose: Divine intimacy.
Holy Week Retreat
April 18-20, 2019
Remember Me: A Seder Meal
Fr. Bob Colaresi leads us through this Passover Meal, including a lamb dinner, weaving the Jewish roots of our own tradition in a remarkable drama of history, theology, culture and prayer.
The 2019 St Thomas Women’s Weekend
A Women’s Weekend with the Women of St. Thomas
Michelle Shaffer Featured speaker/facilitator
Open to Women from other Parishes
The Sound of the Genuine: Engaging Your Inner Man
The Sound of the Genuine: Engaging Your Inner Man is a retreat that invites you to walk some different paths for discovering and honoring your True Self.
Lenten Event: Walk With Jesus
Join our Family of Faith as we relive the Passion of Christ during Lent walking the Stations of the Cross together in the Meditation Garden located next to the Carmelite Spiritual Center, 8419 Bailey Rd., Darien, IL 60561
A Lenten Special: The Shack
The Shack Movie Tuesday, April 9th Morning Session: 9:00 AM-12:00 PM Evening Session: 6:30 PM-9:30 PM
An Armchair Pilgrimage to the Holy Land
With his personal collection of slides, songs and biblical insights, Fr. Bob Colaresi takes you on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, without leaving the USA!
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Feast Day Celebration
July 16, 2019. Join us as we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel with food, prayer, song, and festivities!
St. Thomas Women’s Weekend
A women’s retreat open to all Women of Faith who believe in God’s graced presence in their lives, sponsored by St. Thomas Women of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church – Naperville, IL.
Walking on Water: A Men’s Retreat on Courage and Trust
St. Thomas Men and Illinois M.A.L.E.s present Walking on Water: A Men’s Retreat on Courage and Trust. Join your brothers in a powerful weekend experience.
Christmas at the Crib
Join us around the manger for “Christmas at the Crib” at the National Shrine Museum of St. Therese.
2019 Christmas Brunch
A festive brunch will be followed by a presentation looking at the birth of Christ, and his continued presence in our lives.
Days of Renewal with Fr. Jack Welsh, O. Carm.
A series of four days for renewal, reflection, and prayer at the Carmelite Spiritual Center with the inspiration of the Carmelite doctors of the church.
Ash Wednesday: What Color Is Your Lent?
February 26, 2020, 9:30 am to 3 PM at the Carmelite Spiritual Center Join us in this day of reflection, looking at the Lord’s call for Lent.
Into the Land of Carmel 2020
July 12-17, 2020 – With the saints of Carmel as our guides, we will explore the origins of Carmel, our living tradition, and the nature of contemplation and prayer.
An Armchair Pilgrimage to the Holy Land
With his personal collection of slides, songs and biblical insights, Fr. Bob Colaresi takes you on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, without leaving the USA!
Good Friday – A Solemn Day of Prayer
Please join Fr. Bob Colaresi as we walk the Way of the Cross, celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Communion Service to truly understand why this day is called “Good Friday.”
Holy Week Retreat
Please join Fr. Bob Colaresi for this Holy Week Retreat which begins with a Seder Meal/Eucharist on Holy Thursday, includes a full day of reflection on Good Friday, and ends with Saturday morning reflection on the Resurrection of Jesus and its impact on our lives.
Remember Me: A Seder Meal
Fr. Bob Colaresi leads us through this Passover Meal, including a lamb dinner, weaving the Jewish roots of our own tradition in a remarkable drama of history, theology, culture and prayer.
A Family Christmas Program
Join us at the Carmelite Spiritual Center on December 13, 2020 for a Family Christmas Program with dinner, singing, and crafts for the children.
Remember Me: A Seder Meal
Fr. Bob Colaresi leads us through this Passover Seder Meal, including a lamb dinner, weaving the Jewish roots of our own tradition in a remarkable drama of history, theology, culture and prayer.
Good Friday – A Solemn Day of Prayer
Please join Fr. Bob Colaresi as we walk the Way of the Cross, celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Communion Service to truly understand why this day is called “Good Friday.”
Preached Retreat: Gardens Blossoming
We will reflect on: Elijah, prophet of fire and renewed faith, ending the drought, and searching for the renewed Presence/Mystery hidden; as well as Mary our Sister in faith, who helps us listen to life, not fight, flight, fear or freeze, but how to embrace the garden we are planted in, St. Joseph and Carmelite saints who brighten the horizon of spirituality.
Into the Land of Carmel 2021
July 11-16, 2021 – With the saints of Carmel as our guides, we will explore the origins of Carmel, our living tradition, and the nature of contemplation and prayer.
Bethlehem: Places of Miracles, New Life and Nuturing Love
Join us in this day of reflection on the bibilical meaning of Bethlehem at the Carmelite Spiritual Center in Darien, IL.
Advent: Waiting for God
Join us for a special Advent Day of reflection on November 30, 2021 at the Carmelite Spiritual Center in Darien, IL.
2021 Christmas Banquet & Concert
Join Mrs. Julie McKee with her A Cappella Choir of Mother McAuley High School for a festive program that is sure to touch your heart and prepare you for Christmas.
Facing Suicide-Offering Hope in Moments of Darkness: A Spiritual Perspective
This evening workshop will include content related to offering hope in Moments of Darkness via survival stories, personal experiences, and a spiritual perspective; concluding with a prayer vigil.
Saint Teresa of Avila
This retreat day will rehearse the dymnamic life of Saint Teresa of Jesus.
Holiness in the Everyday – A Day of Reflection
This Day of Reflection titled Holiness in the Everyday will include content related to A Reflection on Pope Francis’: “Gaudete et Exsultate”.
Holiness in the Everyday-A Day of Reflection
This Day of Reflection titled Holiness in the Everyday will include content related to A Reflection on Pope Francis’: “Gaudete et Exsultate”.
Good Friday – A Solemn Day of Prayer
Please join Fr. Bob Colaresi as we walk the Way of the Cross, celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Communion Service to truly understand why this day is called “Good Friday.”
Remember Me: A Seder Meal
Fr. Bob Colaresi leads us through this Passover Seder Meal, including a lamb dinner, weaving the Jewish roots of our own tradition in a remarkable drama of history, theology, culture and prayer.
Into the Land of Carmel 2022
July 10-15, 2022 – With the saints of Carmel as our guides, we will explore the origins of Carmel, our living tradition, and the nature of contemplation and prayer.
Preached Retreat: Indwelling Presence
Carmelite spirituality has always stressed the Indwelling Presence that is constant and always and already present, who energizes all we do and are.
Dare to Heal Program
This Dare to HealTM Program will help the individuals identify areas in their lives in need of healing.
Dare to be Resilient Program
You are invited to – Renew Your Resilience from the Inside Out
2022 Christmas Brunch
A festive brunch will be followed by a presentation looking at the birth of Christ, and his continued presence in our lives.
Preached Retreat – HOPE: The Journey to Light
Christ is the Light of the World. We are called to be people who live in the light because God is present within and around us. Hope gently opens us to light and possibilities, which we experience in inner spiritual practices, prayer and the lives of saints and mystics.
Remember Me: A Seder Meal
Fr. Bob Colaresi leads us through this Passover Seder Meal, including a lamb dinner, weaving the Jewish roots of our own tradition in a remarkable drama of history, theology, culture and prayer.
Good Friday – A Solemn Day of Prayer
Please join Fr. Bob Colaresi as we walk the Way of the Cross, celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Communion Service to truly understand why this day is called “Good Friday.”
Into the Land of Carmel 2023
July 16-21, 2023 – With the saints of Carmel as our guides, we will explore the origins of Carmel, our living tradition, and the nature of contemplation and prayer.
St. Thomas Women’s Retreat
A women’s retreat open to all Women of Faith who believe in God’s graced presence in their lives, sponsored by St. Thomas Women of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church – Naperville, IL.
Men as Lovers (in Relationship to the Feminine)
A men’s retreat open to all Men of Faith. The Carmelite Spiritual Center is hosting this program for Men. It is sponsored by Illuman of Illinois.
2023 Christmas Brunch
A festive brunch will be followed by a presentation looking at the birth of Christ, and his continued presence in our lives.
A Weekend Retreat for Men – In the Image of God…The Gifts of the Enneagram
A men’s retreat open to all Men of Faith which will provide participants with opportunitis to explore a mature spirituality through a deepening in the wisdom of the Enneagram. Men will be invaited to explore the path self-healing and wholeness using the Enneagram as a map and guide.
Into the Land of Carmel 2024
July 14-19, 2024
With the saints of Carmel as our guides, we will explore the origins of Carmel, our living tradition, and the nature of contemplation and prayer.
Holy Land Fall 2024 – Experience of a Lifetime
Fall 2024
Fr. Bob leads his 35th pilgrimage of the Holy Land, our spiritual home to reflect on the scriptures.
A Retreat for Women – By Name, I Call You
February 24, 2024
A women’s retreat open to all Women of Faith to join us as we explore the pathway of being and becoming.
Blessed Humanity – Healthy Masculinity
March 9, 2024
A Morning of Renewal for Men. The Carmelite Spiritual Center is hosting this program.
Good Friday – A Solemn Day of Prayer
March 29, 2024
Please join Fr. Bob Colaresi as we walk the Way of the Cross, celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Communion Service to truly understand why this day is called “Good Friday.”
Remember Me: A Seder Meal
March 26 and March 28, 2024
Fr. Bob Colaresi leads us through this Passover Seder Meal, including a lamb dinner, weaving the Jewish roots of our own tradition in a remarkable drama of history, theology, culture and prayer.
Preached Retreat – Sacred Journeys; Sacred Places
June 2-7 or June 9-14, 2024
When was the last time you took time for yourself? To get away to catch up with yourself? To let God catch up with you? A week away in a comfortable room, great campus, meals and inspiration? Consider the June preached retreats: Sacred Journeys; Sacred Places.
Possible Parables – Biblical Stories Re-Imagined and Performed
The Carmelite Spiritual Center offers an exciting opportunity to explore the Parables of Jesus. He taught in parables because he did not want easy answers, but rather an in-depth exploration of the Good News for us to reflect on.
Embodying Love: The Word Made Flesh – Saturday, December 14, 2024
How do we embody God in our lives? Mary knew; together let’s learn from her this Advent.
Empowered Biblical Women: Matriarchs in a Patriarchal Culture – Friday, November 15, 2024
Explore the lives and legacies of the strong women of the bible and the lessons they impart for our lives today.
An Armchair Pilgrimage to the Holy Land 2024
With his personal collection of slides, songs and biblical insights, Fr. Bob Colaresi takes you on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, without leaving the USA!
An Advent Program for Men – Joseph — Our Mentor as Men – Saturday, December 7, 2024
The Carmelite Spiritual Center offers an exciting opportunity to explore Joseph — Our Mentor as Men. Through reflecting on the biblical stories, Jack and Bob will lead us to be inspired by this wonderful man who mentors and models our male experience.
Christmas Dinner & Concert – Sunday, December 1, 2024
Join Fr. Bob and Julie McKee with her A Capella Choir of Mother McAuley High School for a festive program that is sure to touch your hearts as you prepare for the Advent and Christmas season.
Christmas Brunch – Monday, December 2, 2024
A festive brunch will be followed by a presentation looking at the birth of Christ, and his continued presence in our lives.
Men’s Weekend Retreat – January 31-February 2, 2025
Three days of discovery exploring the parts of that have been denied, using the four major masculine archetypes: King, Lover, Warrior, and Magician. There will be presentations, time in nature, drumming, and meaningful sharing in council, to help awaken us.
Possible Parables “Biblical Stories Re-Imagined and Performed” – Saturday, March 8, 2025
Are there parables or bible stories that you’ve heard so often your brain goes on automatic when they start? Have you ever wondered what happened “the next day” after a key event in scripture? Join us for short, dramatic presentations and time for reflection and feedback.
Mary Magdalene: Who is she … really?- Saturday, April 26, 2025
Perspectives on Mary Magdalene have varied wildly from her lifetime to ours. Learn more from this woman who has been alternately praised and vilified both in scripture and legend.
Lenten Journey-The Gates of Jerusalem – Ash Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Ash Wednesday energizes a journey of conversion and transformation. We respond more deeply to God’s call to intimacy. Fr. Bob will lead us through the Seven Gates of the Biblical Jerusalem and how they symbolize liminal spaces on our journey to wholeness, holiness and salvation.
Remember Me: A Seder Meal – Tues., April 15 or Thurs., April 17, 2025
Fr. Bob Colaresi leads us through this Passover Meal, including a lamb dinner, prayerfully weaving Jewish roots of our own tradition.
Good Friday – A Solemn Day of Prayer, April 18, 2025
Join Fr. Bob Colaresi as we walk the Way of the Cross, celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Communion Service to truly understand why this day is called “Good Friday”.
Lenten Hope: Series for Spiritual Greening (Friday mornings in March and April)
Join in this six week program and utilize the Lenten scriptures as a platform for prayer, care and inspiration.
Preached Retreat: Mystery of Divine Metaphor – June 8-13, 2025
In this Jubilee Year of Hope, we will reflect on Metaphors used by Jesus and Mystic Saints: Vine and Branches, Salt and Light, Fig Trees, Hidden Jewel, Yeast, Crops, Sheep, Lambs, Dark Nights, Fire, Shepherds, etc, and what Jubilee means in our lives and world. Come for some reflection and renewal.
The Ocean of God’s Love – A Men’s Writing Retreat by Rumi: June 27-29, 2025
At this writing retreat, we will open our hearts to one of the most beloved poets of all time. Capturing our thoughts through poetry and journaling, we shall connect with other men throughout this engaging weekend retreat.
In the Mouth of the Dragon – Saturday, March 29, 2025
March 29, 2025-A Morning of Renewal for Men. Cancer, Concussion, Conclusion: An Immersion into the wilderness of Challenging Times. The Carmelite Spiritual Center is hosting this program.
Into The Land of Carmel – July 13-18, 2025
This week-long retreat/seminar will reflect the life lived long ago on Mount Carmel, but with additional elements of instruction in the tradition. With the saints of Carmel as our guides, we will explore the origins of Carmel, our living tradition, and the nature of contemplative prayer.