Scripture implores us to "Always be ready to give an account of the hope that is in you" (1 Peter 3:15). But how do we live as people of hope, especially when fear and despair threaten to overwhelm us - whether through personal struggles or global circumstances?

On this weekend retreat, participants will be invited to reflect and pray with Scripture, Ignatian meditations, and other spiritual texts that help root us in the hope we find in God. We will explore "Nevertheless, HOPE" as a faithful and courageous response to life's challenges and uncertainties. Through silence, prayer, and individual reflection, we will discover how God remains present and at work even in times of desolation, reminding us that despair never has the final word and that our deepest hope rests in the One who is the source of our peace.

This is a silent retreat. Guests will be supported in keeping a sacred silence throughout the weekend, including at meals.

About Sarah Otto, M.Div., and Gail Henderson-Belsito

Sarah Otto, M.Div., is a Jesuit-trained retreat director and spiritual director who completed her Master of Divinity at Boston College. She studied theology as both an undergrad and graduate student. Her passion has focused on the intersection of faith and justice, which led her to study in El Salvador. Sarah spent a year in the Jesuit Volunteer Corps, serving men and women experiencing homelessness in Portland, Ore. Sarah has worked as a hospital and prison chaplain and most recently worked in college campus ministry for five years, both at Providence College and as director of a Newman Catholic Center in Chico, Calif. As a mom, Sarah is particularly passionate about ministering to women and families but continues to enjoy helping people discern how to live a faith that does justice, as well as discovering the unique and creative ways God works in everyone.

Gail Henderson-Belsito is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church USA who fell in love with Ignatian spirituality long before she went to seminary. Through teaching, preaching, keynote speaking, and leading workshops in various settings, Gail seeks to help all of God’s children recognize and celebrate their belovedness in God’s eyes. She longs for all people to explore, ponder, and appreciate how God is speaking to them, not only through Scripture and the world around them, but also through their own life stories.

Three-Night Ignatian Weekend Retreat: : Nevertheless, HOPE!

Three-Night Ignatian Weekend Retreat: : Nevertheless, HOPE!

About Sarah Otto, M.Div., and Gail Henderson-Belsito