Spiritual Growth Programs
at the Benedictine Peace CenterBe part of a spiritual growth program at the Benedictine Peace Retreat Center. Each program uses study, presentations, discussion, and prayer for a holistic spiritual experience.
Learn More About:
Contemplative Mornings | Lectio Divina | Scripture Study | Spiritual Enrichment Program
Currently, each spiritual growth program is held online because of COVID-19. Some on-site retreats and discussions will resume when it is safe to do so.
Contemplative Mornings
Third Saturday of Most Months | 9 AM-Noon
Many Christians today long for a more intimate relationship with God that is not always experienced through praying primarily with discursive prayer. Centering prayer is a form of prayer that is responding to that desire, that need. In Centering Prayer, we come to God open, receptive, and willing to listen. It gives us a chance to just be present to God’s love and to let go of the daily distractions of life.
Centering Prayer sessions are usually held on the third Saturday of most months at Sacred Heart Monastery from 9 – 11:45. This involves four 20 minute sitting sessions, with a break in the middle. This is complemented by a teaching and a time for quiet solitude. Participants are expected to be vaccinated.
For further information or to participate in this spiritual growth program, download our brochure. You may also contact us at Benedictine Peace Center 605-668-6292 or email Sr. Doris at: doberembt@yanktonbenedictines.org. Please call ahead as our schedule sometimes varies. We appreciate your offering via PayPal, cash, or check, payable to Benedictine Peace Center, 1005 W. 8th St., Yankton, SD 57078.
Lectio Divina
OnlineLectio Divina means “sacred reading.” It is a way of praying with Scripture, listening to God’s Word. Lectio is part of our early Christian heritage, helping us to encounter God in His living word. In our online lectio divina, we read a Scripture passage several times. Short times of silence between the readings allow God’s Word to soak into us, to speak to us. Lectio invites us to pray Scripture, rather than study it, as we listen for God’s voice We open our hearts so that God’s Word can touch us and guide our living as we pray with Scripture. In our online lectio, there is time to share your reflections with other participants, if we choose.
Online Lectio Divina – Praying together with Scripture
Friday Mornings, 10:00 – 10:45 a.m., Central time
Meet online for lectio divina, a time for praying with the Gospel of the following Sunday. Our gatherings are scheduled on most Fridays (10-10:45 AM). All Christians are welcome to these gatherings, led by S. Doris Oberembt OSB.
To register at any time, contact Sister Doris:
doberembt@yanktonbenedictines.org / 605-668-6022.
Your email address will be needed when you register.
We appreciate your offering via PayPal, or check,
payable to Benedictine Peace Center, 1005 W. 8th St. Yankton, SD 57078.
You may join this spiritual growth program at any time; the group will continue as long as there is interest. Note that it does not meet every Friday because of program conflicts.
Scripture Study Programs
The Gospel of Mark, Part 2
Wednesday Mornings, 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. Central Time
Four Sessions, Lent 2023
Beginning March 8
Gather for an online study of part two of the Gospel of Mark, the earliest of the four gospels. Part two explores Mark 9:33-16:20, including Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem and the events of his passion, death, and resurrection. Commentary by Marie Noonan Sabin. Sessions are facilitated by Sr. Doris Oberembt, OSB, and include study and reflection questions, discussion, and group prayer.
The Acts of the Apostles, Part 2
Wednesday Evenings, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. Central Time
Five Sessions, Lent 2023
Meeting on Zoom, beginning March 1
Join us in learning to follow Jesus as did the early Christians in the Acts of the Apostles. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, the Bible and the excellent resources of the Little Rock Scripture Study will be our guides. In this second half of Acts, we follow the missionary journeys of the Apostle Paul. The sessions will be facilitated by S. Mary Jo Polak OSB. On Wednesday evenings we will share insights, watch a video, and take time to enhance our personal way of praying with the Scriptures as did the early Christians. We will include an introduction to praying lectio divina and visio divina as ways of praying with the Scriptures.
Spiritual Enrichment Program
This one-year Spiritual Enrichment Program is open to men and women who desire to deepen their relationship with God. Program participants gather eight times on a Saturday morning from September through April. In addition, each person will enjoy a three-day silent retreat scheduled at your convenience.
Each program year will address new topics of interest to women and men on the spiritual journey. Sessions seek to bring a theological and spiritual perspective to a faith journey within the Christian tradition. Previous participants may opt to continue and new participants may begin each September.
2022-2023 discussion starter:
The Seeker and the Monk: Everyday Conversations with Thomas Merton
By: Sophronia Scott
