
Inaugural National Retreat for Deacon Wives
July 25-29, 2027
Experience a silent retreat like no other.
The Institute for Diaconate Renewal (IDR) seeks to not only accompany deacons, but also equip and support their wives. There are currently no retreats catered directly to the needs and formation of deacon wives. Therefore, we’ve designed the first national retreat specifically tailored to this underserved group of strong women.
This four-day retreat will give you an opportunity to join in the sisterhood of other deacon wives as you step away from the busyness of life and spend intentional time with Jesus Christ. This retreat will run parallel to the National Silent Retreat for Deacons.
You’ll be strengthened through eucharistic adoration, lectio divina, the sacraments, and spiritual direction while listening to the Lord’s still, small voice in the silence of your heart. You’ll come away encouraged and rejuvenated, so you can better serve those to whom you minister as you continue to faithfully support your husband in his ministry.

A serene environment for reflection.
Located in Oakville, our peaceful retreat center is nestled on an 80-acre campus overlooking the Mississippi River bluffs. It provides a perfect background for spiritual renewal and growth.
The area features the Way of the Cross and shrines of the Sacred Heart, the Holy Family, Our Lady, and St. Joseph.
Retreat Details
Registration opens early 2027!
Amenities
A private room with A/C and bathroom
Picturesque grounds, serene shrines, and a peaceful chapel
Three meals and beverage service daily
Cost
TBD (Discount for couples!)
Covers retreat, room, meals, and beverage service
Note: All travel and related expenses are separate and the responsibility of the retreatant.
Location
Airport shuttle upon request
Note: St. Louis Lambert Airport is 40 minutes away
Why Four Days, Silent, Directed?
Four Days
• to decompress, enter a deeper self-awareness,
• to distinguish between God thoughts, our own, and those of the adversary,
• to track affective movements,to know and experience Christ the Servant’s heart, the source of Trinitarian love.
Silent
• to get comfortable with listening to our hearts,
• to recognize God’s heart,
• to hear God’s wordless message,
• to let his presence and love touch us,
• to let go of our interior noise,
• to allow God to embrace our hearts.
Directed
• orientation provided for silent prayer, interior listening,
• Mass, liturgical and private prayer, adoration, confession,
• two brief orientation sessions per day (morning, afternoon),
• two spiritual direction meetings,
• private and communal lectio divina,
• plus time for rest, relaxation, exercise, spiritual reading.
“The retreat offered tangible, specific and personal experience of divine love.”
Past Retreat Participant
Diocese of Sioux City
