The retreats start Friday night at 8:15pm with the celebration of Mass. You may arrive as early as 7:00pm to check in. Some people drive quite a distance and have asked to check in to their room earlier and then drive to Lincoln for dinner. Please call ahead if this is your plan.

Sunday lunch is served at Noon, after which time the Retreat is over and you're free to go.

All you need to bring are your toiletries and personal clothing. The Retreat House has 50 private rooms, each with their own restroom. The linens are provided, including towels. There is a pillow provided but some prefer to bring their own. There are 3 blankets provided which seems satisfactory for warmth.

The dress code is casual so as not to distract from prayer. Keep in mind, however, that you will be attending conferences and Mass in the chapel. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the Retreat House is situated on 50 acres of beautiful rolling hills.

Each room has its own toilet, sink, and shower. All the linen is supplied, including towels, bar soap, and linen for the bed. Some people prefer to bring their own pillow.

The meals are served with good nutrition in mind. If you have a food allergy or a special need, please call ahead and the kitchen staff will assist you. The meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Saturday, and breakfast, and lunch, on Sunday. There is coffee, tea, hot chocolate, fruit, and yogurt available for snacks. There is a refrigerator in the dinning room if you need to bring something special. There is a pop machine in the building.

By silence, it is meant that you are basically silent. The retreat master gives conferences. There is liturgy, group prayer and religious tapes played during meals. There is optional conversation time for anyone wishing to speak after the Saturday evening meal.

The purpose of silence is to concentrate on listening and speaking with Our Lord in prayer and reflection. Many find it relaxing not having to chat with their neighbor or group for a weekend. Silence gives a person uninterrupted time to be with Our Lord. It is not something easily found in the secular world.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered during the weekend, usually on Saturday. The Retreat Masters usually offer time for private conferences as well.

The suggested donation is $170. If you cannot donate this amount, please don't let that stop you from attending. Some of the pastors, or groups from each parish, can help with payment. Some people donate in two or three payments.

No. Everyone is welcome. Our Lady of Good Counsel Retreat House is a Catholic facility and the retreats are directed for Catholics. Non-Catholics are welcome to participate as fully as possible except for the reception of the communion.

Yes. Two of the rooms are equipped for the handicapped. There are no barriers for wheel chairs. One confessional is handicapped accessible. There is a wheelchair available for anyone's use. If there are any other needs, the Retreat House staff would be glad to accommodate wherever possible.