Watts-Midtown Branch

Rock Island IL

Learning about Electricity with Snap Circuits

Refuge Wellness Collective

Mindful Movement Birth Prep

Mindful Movement Birth Prep NOVEMBER

Southwest Branch

Southwest Stitch Club

Benet House Retreat Center at Saint Mary Monastery

<a href="https://smmsisters.org/benedictine-retreats" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Benet House Retreat</a> Center <a href="https://smmsisters.org/our-values" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"> at St. Mary Monastery</a>&nbsp;in the Illinois Quad Cities will offer a <a href="https://smmsisters.org/retreats/fulton-sheen-retreat-illinois" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">special event,</a> What it Means to Serve: Inspiration from the Life of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 6:00PM to 8:00PM.
We invite you to join us as we explore a life of service in the footsteps of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. In this special program, reflecting on the life, works and thought of Archbishop Sheen, we have the opportunity to be led to a deeper relationship with the Divine. Renewing and strengthening this relationship provides us with inspiration and wisdom to serve all within our daily life.
The Program will explore video content and excerpts from Venerable Sheen's book "Life is Worth Living" as a means to inspire us in a life of love and service. On this subject Sheen offers, "You may not like somebody, but you can still love them...because loving is good for the soul." Archbishop Sheen also guides us to introspect using the story of the Good Samaritan. He suggests instead of asking, is this a worthy object of charity? Ask, are we a worthy subject of charity, do we bring compassion to our actions of service. During the program there will be time for group discussion. Tea and conversation will follow the event. Fulton John Sheen was born May 8, 1895, in El Paso, Illinois. Archbishop Sheen, best known for his popular syndicated television program, Life is Worth Living, is held today as one of Catholicism’s most widely recognized figures of the twentieth century. His life of service is an inspiring example to all. Archbishop Sheen became the first-ever American-born bishop to be beatified by the Catholic Church. Venerable Fulton J. Sheen's beatification was celebrated September 15-26, 2026, in Peoria IL and St. Louis MO.
Date and time: Wednesday November 4, 2026, 6-8:00 pm 
Location: Benet House Retreat Center, 2200 88th Ave W., Rock Island, IL 61201 
Cost: Free will offering
Following this initial event, in March 2027 Benet House Retreat Center will offer a 5-Week Series, <a href="https://smmsisters.org/retreats/a-5-week-series-on-the-joy-of-service-inspiration-from-the-life-of-archbishop-fulton-j-sheen" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">The Joy of Service: Inspiration from the Life of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. </a> Each week will delve into an area of service in the Life of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen: Learning, Praying, Teaching, Suffering &amp; Giving. Through exploring the life, virtues, and apostolic works of Archbishop Sheen we rouse our good heart and desire to serve. We will find his messages continue to have great relevance today. Reflecting and discussing together we energize our spiritual work. Take home a reinvigorated heart of service infusing each moment of your normal schedule with deep purpose and meaning resulting in a life filled with joy and love. 
We will use 2 books for the 2027 series, <a href="https://sheenmuseumgifts.com/products/life-is-worth-living?variant=48354327429274" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Life is Worth Living</a>, and <a href="https://x-webdoc://D9943D67-D971-4825-9E3A-09381F6B5FA7/Treasure%20In%20Clay%20%E2%80%93%20Sheen%20Museum%20Gift%20Shop" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Treasure in Clay</a>. The series will be in-person only. Registration for the 5-week series is limited to 25 people and is now open.

Local Event: Archbishop Fulton J Sheen Program 

Rock Island County

Rock Island

Illinois

Archbishop Fulton J Sheen Program 

Benet House Retreat Center  at St. Mary Monastery in the Illinois Quad Cities will offer a special event, What it Means to...

Toddler Tales @ Southwest Branch

Downtown Library

Mini Monet for Toddlers

Thanksgiving Cardmaking Crafternoon

Frieze Lecture Series

<a href="https://smmsisters.org/retreats/taize-prayer-service-in-quad-cities-at-benet-house-retreat-center" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Quad Cities TAIZE&nbsp;Prayer Service</a> the 3rd Thursday of each month at Benet House Retreat Center at St Mary Monastery. A Rhythm of Peace and Simplicity - Space for Reflection and Calm&nbsp; Enter a sacred rhythm of peace and simplicity at Benet House Retreat Center Quad Cities Taizé Prayer Services. These meditative evenings are marked by gentle chants, short readings and extended moments of silence.

Taizé prayer is a gift for anyone seeking to slow down, quiet their heart and listen for the Spirit's voice. The simplicity of the service allows space for personal reflection, while the repetition of chants creates a prayerful atmosphere of deep calm. Whether you are drawn to Taizé for the first time or return often to its quiet beauty, these evenings provide a meaningful way to rest in God’s presence.
Taizé prayer is a form of worship originating in an ecumenical community of Christian monks in Taizé, France. For many years, tens of thousands of pilgrims, especially young people, have joined the monks for their Taizé prayer services.
Upcoming Dates 
Thursday November 19, 2026, and Thursday December 17, 2026 
Program starts at 6:00pm and is approximately 45 minutes. 
Fee: Free-will offering
No registration required.
Location: Benet House Retreat Center at St. Mary Monastery in southwest Rock Island, IL, 2200 88th Ave W., Rock Island, IL

Local Event: TAIZE Prayer Service in Quad Cities at Benet House Retreat Center

TAIZE Prayer Service in Quad Cities at Benet...

 Quad Cities TAIZE Prayer Service the 3rd Thursday of each month at Benet House Retreat Center at St Mary Monastery. A Rhythm...

TAIZE Prayer Service in Quad Cities at Benet House Retreat Center

<h1><a href="https://smmsisters.org/retreats/the-word-among-us-26-nov-23" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">The Word Among Us, Christian Prayer and Reflection Group</a></h1>
In person Group on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month, next group November 23, 2026.&nbsp; Registration required.

<ul><li>(in-person only) at Benet House Retreat Center 2200 88th Avenue West, Rock Island, IL, 61201 </li></ul>
Read, reflect, pray, and share with other committed Christians seeking to grow through the challenges of Scripture in everyday life.&nbsp; Participants are given a guide and encouraged to read and reflect on a Scripture passage each day. &nbsp;
Date:&nbsp; 2nd and 4th Monday:&nbsp; Nov. 9, 23; Dec. 14, 2026 In 2027: Jan. 11, 25; Feb. 8, 22; Mar. 8, 22; April 12, 26; May 10, 2027.
Time: 1-2:30 pm.
Fee: $50/series plus cost of subscription to <a href="https://wau.org/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Word Among Us</a> publication.
<h2><a href="https://smmsisters.org/retreats/the-word-among-us-26-nov-23" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Register for&nbsp;The Word Among Us</a></h2>
The Word Among Us is a twice-monthly program. Once you have registered below, you are registered for the full series - there is no need to fill out this form again! In addition to the $50&nbsp;fee for the series, there is a subscription cost for the Word Among Us publication. If you have questions, please contact the Benet House office.<a href="https://smmsisters.org/benedictine-retreats" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">About Benet House Retreat Center</a>
Benet House Retreat Center at <a href="https://smmsisters.org/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">St. Mary Monastery, </a>Rock Island, Illinois offers a place apart to seek the Holy One for persons of all faiths. Benet House Retreat Center is situated atop a hill overlooking 90 acres of prairie restoration, woods and a lake. Walking paths provide quiet and solitude. Private guest rooms provide sanctuary. Come for <a href="https://smmsisters.org/overnight-retreats-in-il-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">guided retreats, </a><a href="https://smmsisters.org/retreats/silent-retreats-in-2027-in-illinois-with-spiritual-direction" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">silent retreats,</a> <a href="https://smmsisters.org/personal-retreats-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">personal retreats‍</a> ‍and a variety of <a href="https://smmsisters.org/quad-city-prayer-groups" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">ongoing prayers‍</a> ‍and spiritual <a href="https://smmsisters.org/catholic-christian-spiritual-events-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">programs </a>or <a href="https://smmsisters.org/personal-retreats-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">host your own group retreat</a>. Benet House Retreat Center is an anchor of our Midwest region’s spiritual community, and well worth the trip.

Local Event: Word Among Us Group in Quad Cities Illinois

Word Among Us Group in Quad Cities Illinois

The Word Among Us, Christian Prayer and Reflection Group
In person Group on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month, next group...

<a href="https://smmsisters.org/retreats/sacred-rhythm-retreat" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Sacred Rhythm Advent Retreat 2026</a> at Benet House Retreat Center at St Mary Monastery Illinois. As the Christmas season approaches, our hearts often long for something deeper than the rushed pace and full calendars—something quieter, gentler, and more aligned with the true meaning of Advent: waiting, listening, and making room for Christ.&nbsp;
This overnight retreat is an invitation to step away from the noise and slip into a sacred rhythm of silence, stillness, and holy rest. Together, we’ll create space for God to restore weary places, steady our spirits, and awaken a quiet expectancy within us.
<h4>What to Expect</h4>
Over these 24 hours, you’ll be guided through a peaceful blend of:
<ul><li>Sacred silence to settle your soul</li><li>Guided spiritual practices that open your heart to God’s presence</li><li>Unhurried space for journaling, rest, and simply being with God</li></ul>
There is no pressure to perform, participate, or be productive. This retreat is a&nbsp; “sanctuary” - a quiet place to breathe deeply, release what’s heavy, and prepare room for the One who comes to bring hope, peace, joy, and love.
Date and times: Fri., Dec. 11 (4 pm)-Sat., Dec. 12 (4 pm).&nbsp; Doors open at 2 pm.
Retreat leader: Jenny Chadima
Cost: $190 (single room); $175 (double room). Cost includes private room, meals, meeting room, materials and presenter fee.
Registration deadline: Dec. 5
<figure><div class="embed-content"><div data-animation-role="image"><div data-sqsp-image-classic-block-image-container=""><img data-stretch="false" data-src="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ed154ffeada816f489fe45c/1b20f979-77c6-443c-b0d5-639fd4a770b2/Jenny+Chadima+2026.jpg" data-image="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ed154ffeada816f489fe45c/1b20f979-77c6-443c-b0d5-639fd4a770b2/Jenny+Chadima+2026.jpg" data-image-dimensions="447x447" data-image-focal-point="0.5,0.5" data-sqsp-image-classic-block-image="" data-licensed-asset-preview="false" data-load="false" src="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ed154ffeada816f489fe45c/1b20f979-77c6-443c-b0d5-639fd4a770b2/Jenny+Chadima+2026.jpg" srcset="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ed154ffeada816f489fe45c/1b20f979-77c6-443c-b0d5-639fd4a770b2/Jenny+Chadima+2026.jpg?format=100w 100w, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ed154ffeada816f489fe45c/1b20f979-77c6-443c-b0d5-639fd4a770b2/Jenny+Chadima+2026.jpg?format=300w 300w, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ed154ffeada816f489fe45c/1b20f979-77c6-443c-b0d5-639fd4a770b2/Jenny+Chadima+2026.jpg?format=500w 500w, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ed154ffeada816f489fe45c/1b20f979-77c6-443c-b0d5-639fd4a770b2/Jenny+Chadima+2026.jpg?format=750w 750w, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ed154ffeada816f489fe45c/1b20f979-77c6-443c-b0d5-639fd4a770b2/Jenny+Chadima+2026.jpg?format=1000w 1000w, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ed154ffeada816f489fe45c/1b20f979-77c6-443c-b0d5-639fd4a770b2/Jenny+Chadima+2026.jpg?format=1500w 1500w, https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ed154ffeada816f489fe45c/1b20f979-77c6-443c-b0d5-639fd4a770b2/Jenny+Chadima+2026.jpg?format=2500w 2500w" data-loader="sqs" data-image-component="1.0.1"></div></div></div><figcaption data-sqsp-image-classic-block-caption-container=""><div></div></figcaption></figure>
Jenny Chadima is the founder of Radiantly Healthy Faith, a contemplative ministry offering compassionate soul-centered guidance for women through coaching, retreats, and spiritual direction.&nbsp; She is also a published author, and serves as the executive director of Fresh Start Ministries, a non-profit organization providing support and services for individuals during and after incarceration.&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://smmsisters.org/benedictine-retreats" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">About Benet House Retreat Center</a>
Benet House Retreat Center at <a href="https://smmsisters.org/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">St. Mary Monastery, </a>Rock Island, Illinois offers a place apart to seek the Holy One for persons of all faiths. Benet House Retreat Center is situated atop a hill overlooking 90 acres of prairie restoration, woods and a lake. Walking paths provide quiet and solitude. Private guest rooms provide sanctuary. Come for <a href="https://smmsisters.org/overnight-retreats-in-il-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">guided retreats, </a><a href="https://smmsisters.org/retreats/silent-retreats-in-2027-in-illinois-with-spiritual-direction" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">silent retreats,</a> <a href="https://smmsisters.org/personal-retreats-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">personal retreats‍</a> ‍and a variety of <a href="https://smmsisters.org/quad-city-prayer-groups" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">ongoing prayers‍</a> ‍and spiritual <a href="https://smmsisters.org/catholic-christian-spiritual-events-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">programs </a>or <a href="https://smmsisters.org/personal-retreats-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">host your own group retreat</a>. Benet House Retreat Center is an anchor of our Midwest region’s spiritual community, and well worth the trip.

Benet House Retreat Center is located less than three hours from Chicago, IL and Des Moines, IA and just one hour from Iowa City, Iowa.&nbsp; By flight: Quad<a href="https://www.qcairport.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"> Cities International Airport</a> is 15 minutes from Benet House Retreat Center. 
There are also bus options available from Chicago and other major transportation hubs. Moline, IL and Davenport, IA are the closest major ground transit stops to Benet House Retreat Center. ‍ Rideshare &amp; Taxi Service:&nbsp; Uber and Lyft services and local taxi companies are available in the area.

Local Event: Preparing for Christmas A Sacred Rhythm Retreat at Benet House Retreat Center

Preparing for Christmas A Sacred Rhythm Retreat...

Sacred Rhythm Advent Retreat 2026 at Benet House Retreat Center at St Mary Monastery Illinois. As the Christmas season...

Preparing for Christmas A Sacred Rhythm Retreat at Benet House Retreat Center

<h1><a href="https://smmsisters.org/retreats/new-years-meditation-retreat-for-beginners-2027-in-illinois-iowa-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">New Year's Meditation Retreat for Beginners 2027</a></h1>Friday, January 29, 2027 at 4:00 PM through Sunday, January 31, 2027 at 2:00 PM at Benet House Retreat Center, 2200 88th Avenue West Rock Island, Illinois, 61201 United States
Start your New Year 2027 in a meaningful, life shifting way. Experience a spiritually empowering weekend meditation retreat in the peaceful environment of Benet House Retreat Center at St Mary's Monastery in Rock Island, Illinois. Enjoy guided meditation sessions and practical teachings that present effective tools to incorporate positive ways of thinking into your day-to-day life. 

Theme: How to Stop Negative Thoughts and Cultivate Positive State of Minds. Year after year we seem to fall into the same bad mental habits of thought. It's not a wonder, as the world around us continuously forces negative talk and images in our direction. In this retreat we will learn simple, effective mental techniques to turn our mind away from negative atmospheres towards positive states. Like developing muscle in the gym, the muscle of our mental attention needs to be trained to turn in a positive direction, instead of defenselessly succumbing to the current of negativity around us. As we train in these mental techniques, we grow stronger and our thoughts will remain longer in positive and beneficial states of mind. As a result, feelings of happiness and satisfaction will remain in our mind influencing our daily activities and relationships in a positive way. Furthermore, we will discover we have developed the mental strength to help others move in this positive direction, bringing new meaning and fulfillment to our life. During your retreat, explore nature trails, enjoy meaningful conversation and relax amidst the beauty and tranquility of the Benet House Retreat Center's natural surroundings. 
Whether you're a beginner or simply want to enjoy retreat in ideal conditions, this weekend will help you renew and return to daily life with tools to keep a positive, happy mind.
Everyone is welcome, no experience is needed. We sit in chairs. 
Registration and payment in full by January 15, 2027:
<ul><li>Private Room, meals and materials: $350.00 </li><li>Shared Room with 2 twin beds, meals and materials: $320 per person</li></ul>
If you are interested in adding an extra night stay before or after the retreat, please contact registration after you have booked your retreat.<a href="https://smmsisters.org/benedictine-retreats" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">About Benet House Retreat Center</a>
Benet House Retreat Center at <a href="https://smmsisters.org/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">St. Mary Monastery, </a>Rock Island, Illinois offers a place apart to seek the Holy One for persons of all faiths. Benet House Retreat Center is situated atop a hill overlooking 90 acres of prairie restoration, woods and a lake. Walking paths provide quiet and solitude. Private guest rooms provide sanctuary. Come for <a href="https://smmsisters.org/overnight-retreats-in-il-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">guided retreats, </a><a href="https://smmsisters.org/retreats/silent-retreats-in-2027-in-illinois-with-spiritual-direction" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">silent retreats,</a> <a href="https://smmsisters.org/personal-retreats-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">personal retreats‍</a> ‍and a variety of <a href="https://smmsisters.org/quad-city-prayer-groups" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">ongoing prayers‍</a> ‍and spiritual <a href="https://smmsisters.org/catholic-christian-spiritual-events-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">programs </a>or <a href="https://smmsisters.org/personal-retreats-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">host your own group retreat</a>. Benet House Retreat Center is an anchor of our Midwest region’s spiritual community, and well worth the trip.

Benet House Retreat Center is located less than three hours from Chicago, IL and Des Moines, IA and just one hour from Iowa City, Iowa.
By flight: Quad<a href="https://www.qcairport.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"> Cities International Airport</a> is 15 minutes from Benet House Retreat Center. 
There are also bus options available from Chicago and other major transportation hubs. Moline, IL and Davenport, IA are the closest major ground transit stops to Benet House Retreat Center. ‍
Rideshare &amp; Taxi Service:
Uber and Lyft services and local taxi companies are available in the area.

Local Event: New Year's Meditation Retreat for Beginners 2027 at Benet House Retreat Center Illinois

New Year's Meditation Retreat for Beginners...

New Year's Meditation Retreat for Beginners 2027Friday, January 29, 2027 at 4:00 PM through Sunday, January 31, 2027 at 2:00 PM...

New Year's Meditation Retreat for Beginners 2027 at Benet House Retreat Center Illinois

<h1><a href="https://smmsisters.org/retreats/remembering-pope-francis-3-part-series" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Remembering Pope Francis: 3-Part Series online or in-person</a></h1>
Pope Francis (1936-2025) lived a sacred life.&nbsp;He was passionate about Christ and His Church; an advocate for peace and justice especially to the marginalized; and compassionate towards every person he met.&nbsp; There are many books about Pope Francis including two autobiographies.&nbsp; Join Sr. Roberta Bussan, OSB, at Benet House Retreat Center at St. Mary Monastery for a 3-part series using the last book Francis wrote, ‘A Good Life.’&nbsp; &nbsp;This book&nbsp; reflects the ’15 Essential Habits for Living with Hope and Joy.’ We will also explore ‘A Joyful Journey with Pope Francis’ by James H. Kroeger, MM that summarizes ‘Twelve Pivotal Documents’ that Francis wrote during his Pontificate.&nbsp; This series remembers Pope Francis by reflecting on his writing and papal documents. &nbsp;
Everyone welcome, no experience needed, <a href="https://smmsisters.org/retreats/remembering-pope-francis-3-part-series" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">advanced registration required</a>
Dates: Feb. 11, 18, &amp; 25, 2027
Time: 6:30-7:30pm
Retreat Leader: &nbsp; Sr. Bobbi Bussan, OSB
Fee: Series/$45
Registration deadline:&nbsp; February 6th<a href="https://smmsisters.org/benedictine-retreats" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">About Benet House Retreat Center</a>
Benet House Retreat Center at <a href="https://smmsisters.org/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">St. Mary Monastery, </a>Rock Island, Illinois offers a place apart to seek the Holy One for persons of all faiths. Benet House Retreat Center is situated atop a hill overlooking 90 acres of prairie restoration, woods and a lake. Walking paths provide quiet and solitude. Private guest rooms provide sanctuary. Come for <a href="https://smmsisters.org/overnight-retreats-in-il-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">guided retreats, </a><a href="https://smmsisters.org/retreats/silent-retreats-in-2027-in-illinois-with-spiritual-direction" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">silent retreats,</a> <a href="https://smmsisters.org/personal-retreats-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">personal retreats‍</a> ‍and a variety of <a href="https://smmsisters.org/quad-city-prayer-groups" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">ongoing prayers‍</a> ‍and spiritual <a href="https://smmsisters.org/catholic-christian-spiritual-events-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">programs </a>or <a href="https://smmsisters.org/personal-retreats-quad-cities" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">host your own group retreat</a>. Benet House Retreat Center is an anchor of our Midwest region’s spiritual community, and well worth the trip.

Benet House Retreat Center is located less than three hours from Chicago, IL and Des Moines, IA and just one hour from Iowa City, Iowa. By flight: Quad<a href="https://www.qcairport.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"> Cities International Airport</a> is 15 minutes from Benet House Retreat Center. 
There are also bus options available from Chicago and other major transportation hubs. Moline, IL and Davenport, IA are the closest major ground transit stops to Benet House Retreat Center. ‍ Rideshare &amp; Taxi Service: Uber and Lyft services and local taxi companies are available in the area.

Local Event: Remembering Pope Francis: 3-Part Series online & in-person at Benet House Retreat Center Quad Cities

Remembering Pope Francis: 3-Part Series online...

Remembering Pope Francis: 3-Part Series online or in-person
Pope Francis (1936-2025) lived a sacred life. He was passionate...

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