St. Edmund's Retreat Center, 1 Enders Island, Mystic, CT 06355

After a growing season of sensationally brilliant dahlias, the period of dormancy that autumn precedes is a time for regeneration that helps prepare for the period of rest and renewal. This workshop will focus on the essential skills of putting these beauties to rest for the Winter, ensuring their renewal in the Spring. Whether you are a gardening novice or a seasoned green thumb, this day will provide you with valuable knowledge to cultivate these stunning flowers.
The day will begin with an introduction to the life cycle of dahlias starting with end-of-season care. You will learn to prepare dahlia plants for lifting, storing and the importance of proper care of tubers. Weather permitting, lifting tubers will be a hands-on experience, followed by a step-by-step demonstration of the many ways to over-winter tubers, including dividing tuber clumps and storage practices.&nbsp;
Throughout the day, you’ll take time to reflect on the transformation from the energy of the growing season, to resting and renewal of nature, drawing inspiration from the regenerative process of planting, growing and harvesting.
The lifting exercise will be performed in our gardens, please dress according to the weather. If you are interested in actual digging, please bring a pitch fork. The tuber division demonstration will be done inside. If you prefer to divide your tuber clumps in the fall, feel free to bring a few of your own clumps for advice on how to separate them.
Each participant will receive seedling tuber clumps to take home and a book of year-round dahlia care.
The program will begin at 10 AM, followed by lunch at 12:30 PM. During lunch, Julie will be available to answer questions. If additional discussion is needed, the group can reconvene afterward to address any remaining questions.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
This workshop may take longer as I intend to do the outside exercise.
Spaces are limited, so sign up today to secure your spot!
<img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/11/IMG_8070-232x300.jpg"> <img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/11/IMG_8049-230x300.jpg">

Local Event: Autumn reflections: A Season of Change and Transformation

New London County

Stonington-Mystic

Connecticut

Autumn reflections: A Season of Change and...

After a growing season of sensationally brilliant dahlias, the period of dormancy that autumn precedes is a time for...

Autumn reflections: A Season of Change and Transformation

Enders Island has long been steeped in the traditions and spirituality of the Twelve Step Program which had it's beginnings in 1935 with the birth of AA. Our Recovery Retreats provide a unique opportunity for individuals to encounter and accompany one another as a recovery community seeking to live out the twelve steps, with particular emphasis on the eleventh step:
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood&nbsp;God, praying for the knowledge of God's will for us and for the power to carry that out."&nbsp;
Find solace and renewal on the serene shores of Enders Island. Our single-gender Eleventh Step Weekend Retreats offer a sacred space for reflection, prayer, and connection. Guided by an experienced director, you'll embark on a journey of shared experience, strength, and hope, fostering deeper spiritual growth. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this island sanctuary, enjoying two nights of peaceful respite and five nourishing meals, from Friday evening's dinner to Sunday morning's breakfast.
&nbsp;Check in begins at 4:30 on Friday, November 6th. 
The weekend will conclude on Sunday, November 8th at 11 AM&nbsp;

Local Event: Women's 11th Step

Women's 11th Step

Enders Island has long been steeped in the traditions and spirituality of the Twelve Step Program which had it's beginnings in...

Join us for an evening with Br. Guy Consolmagno, S.J., Director of the Vatican Observatory and President of the Vatican Observatory Foundation. He will discuss his work at the Observatory, whose roots go back to the Gregorian Reform of the Calendar in 1582. As scientists supported by the Church, its modern mission is just to do good science. In the joy and beauty of what we discover, we reveal the presence of God in the things He has made; and, in the process, show there is no inherent conflict between science and religion. We'll look into the history of this activity, including what's being done at the Vatican Observatory today. &nbsp;The evening will begin at 6:30 PM with a talk from Br Guy, followed by questions and answers.&nbsp;Weather permitting, we will also do some stargazing on the great lawn.

Local Event: Stories and Stargazing with Brother Guy

Stories and Stargazing with Brother Guy

Join us for an evening with Br. Guy Consolmagno, S.J., Director of the Vatican Observatory and President of the Vatican...

<h3>“Go from being a person who whines to being a person who shines!” Will Bowen</h3>
Complaining is a common habit, with most of us doing it 10 to 30 times daily. Ready to break free?
This engaging Day of Recollection will equip you with the tools to understand the nature of complaining, learn practical techniques to stop, and ultimately, become a more positive person. You'll gain the knowledge and skills needed to transform yourself into someone who shines!
We invite you to join us for Holy Mass in the Chapel at 9 AM. Check in will begin at 9:45. Coffee, tea and pastries will be available.&nbsp; &nbsp;Included in this day is a hot lunch. This will be served at 12:30 in the dining hall of the Enders House, an early 20th century arts and crafts style mansion and the oldest structure on the island.

Local Event: Living in a Complaint Free World

Living in a Complaint Free World

“Go from being a person who whines to being a person who shines!” Will Bowen
Complaining is a common habit, with most of us...

Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” 
(John 14: 1-3)
Through this day together, there will be instruction and time&nbsp; for mutual sharing.
The group will consider:
• Death and its many faces; the phenomenology of loss • The seemingly endless series of other ensuing losses; the complexity of Bereavement • Human internal response to loss; the pain of Grief • Human external response to loss; the panoply of Mourning • What is the Christian response to loss and suffering? • What is the gift of hope and healing for those who have lost someone they love? • How does one heal by the grace of God and His love? • How does one find strength in the midst of suffering?
The structure of the day will struggle to weave time together with time being alone; the group will be encouraged to share on all levels of experience, allowing for individual reticence and respecting the desire for mutuality. Doubts, fears, uncertainties, worries, questions…all are welcome, and all are pertinent to the group’s quest.
In order to provide opportunity for all retreatants to share, space on this retreat is limited to 15 attendees.
Mass will be celebrated at 9:00am in the Chapel of Our Lady, all are welcome to attend.

Local Event: Winter Bereavement

Winter Bereavement

Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it...

In this Day of Recollection we will immerse ourselves in the beauty and grace of Our Lady of Guadalupe. As we await in the darkness of Advent, we will consider her timeless question, “Am I not here, I who am your mother?” We will revisit her miraculous apparition in Mexico in 1531, a story of hope and roses, revered in the sacred tilma that still hangs today. Take a day to receive her love as she has asked, “Are you not in the hollow of my mantle, the crossing of my arms?” Come join us as we join in spirit with the millions of pilgrims gathering that week, as we all celebrate our love and gratitude for her by honoring her Feast Day.
We invite you to join us for Holy Mass in the Chapel at 9 AM. Check in will begin at 9:45. Coffee, tea and pastries will be available.&nbsp; &nbsp;Included in this day is a hot lunch. This will be served at 12:30 in the dining hall of the Enders House, an early 20th century arts and crafts style mansion and the oldest structure on the island.
The cost for the day is $75

Local Event: Our Lady of Guadalupe: Day of Recollection

Our Lady of Guadalupe: Day of Recollection

In this Day of Recollection we will immerse ourselves in the beauty and grace of Our Lady of Guadalupe. As we await in the...

The beginning of a new year can be a sacred time to review our spiritual practices in relation to our recovery program. &nbsp;Coming together in a community of women is a powerful way to reflect on our relationship with the God of our understanding.&nbsp;Join us for a weekend exploring &nbsp;the principles of&nbsp;Step 11&nbsp;through meditation, prayer, journaling, and group sessions. By going inward in a safe, supportive environment, we will practice surrendering to the&nbsp;God of our understanding&nbsp;and improving our conscious contact in our daily lives.
Enders Island has long been steeped in the traditions and spirituality of the Twelve Step Program which had it's beginnings in 1935 with the birth of AA. Our Recovery Retreats provide a unique opportunity for individuals to encounter and accompany one another as a recovery community seeking to live out the twelve steps, with particular emphasis on the eleventh step:
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood&nbsp;God, praying for the knowledge of God's will for us and for the power to carry that out."&nbsp;
Find solace and renewal on the serene shores of Enders Island. Our single-gender Eleventh Step Weekend Retreats offer a sacred space for reflection, prayer, and connection. Guided by an experienced director, you'll embark on a journey of shared experience, strength, and hope, fostering deeper spiritual growth. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this island sanctuary, enjoying two nights of peaceful respite and five nourishing meals, from Friday evening's dinner to Sunday morning's breakfast.
The retreat check in will begin at 4:30 on Friday, January 22, and will conclude on Sunday, January 24 at 11 AM .&nbsp;

Local Event: Awakening Consciousness: A New Year's 11th Step Women's Retreat

Awakening Consciousness: A New Year's 11th Step...

The beginning of a new year can be a sacred time to review our spiritual practices in relation to our recovery program.  Coming...

Awakening Consciousness: A New Year's 11th Step Women's Retreat

Retreat: &nbsp;4:30pm Check-In - Friday, February 12 11:00 am Farewell - Sunday, February 14All relationships involve "give and take". Do you find you are giving too much of yourself away to others?&nbsp; Or are you more of a "taker" in your relationships? The 11th Step guides us towards healthy awareness of ourselves and our Higher Power so that we may be in right relationship with self, God and others. During this retreat you will have the opportunity to reflect on those areas that need attention so that healing may take place.&nbsp;
Enders Island has long been steeped in the traditions and spirituality of the Twelve Step Program which had it's beginnings in 1935 with the birth of AA. Our Recovery Retreats provide a unique opportunity for individuals to encounter and accompany one another as a recovery community seeking to live out the twelve steps, with particular emphasis on the eleventh step:
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood&nbsp;God, praying for the knowledge of God's will for us and for the power to carry that out."&nbsp;
Find solace and renewal on the serene shores of Enders Island. Our single-gender Eleventh Step Weekend Retreats offer a sacred space for reflection, prayer, and connection. Guided by an experienced director, you'll embark on a journey of shared experience, strength, and hope, fostering deeper spiritual growth. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this island sanctuary, enjoying two nights of peaceful respite and five nourishing meals, from Friday evening's dinner to Sunday morning's breakfast.

Local Event: Women's 11th Step: Learning to Navigate the Challenges to Loving Myself, Others & My Higher Power

Women's 11th Step: Learning to Navigate the...

Retreat:  4:30pm Check-In - Friday, February 12 11:00 am Farewell - Sunday, February 14All relationships involve "give and...

Women's 11th Step: Learning to Navigate the Challenges to Loving Myself, Others & My Higher Power

Take a day to pause and reflect upon the call of the Lord. A Day of Recollection provides a quiet moment of prayer in our busy lives. Make some time for yourself and God, share good food, company, and a quiet place to reflect and appreciate your faith.&nbsp;
The day will begin with Mass at 9 am in The Chapel of Our Lady of the Assumption.
From there, please follow the signs to our Registration area. Coffee, tea, and pastries are available before the start of the first conference at 10:30 AM. Included in this day is a hot lunch. This will be served at 12:30 in the dining hall of the Enders House, an early 20th century arts and crafts style mansion and the oldest structure on the island.
Sample Schedule 9:00 am.............................................................Mass 10:00 am.................................Registration &amp; Coffee 10:30 am.........................................First Conference 11:30 am....................................................Reflection 12:30 pm.......................................Hot Served Lunch 1:45 pm......................................Second Conference 2:45 pm.....................................................Reflection 3:00 pm...................................Farewell &amp; Departure

Local Event: Day of Recollection with Fr. Brian Daley

Day of Recollection with Fr. Brian Daley

Take a day to pause and reflect upon the call of the Lord. A Day of Recollection provides a quiet moment of prayer in our busy...

“Rising very early before dawn, He left and went off to a deserted place, where He prayed.” Mark 1:35&nbsp;
In a world filled with chaos and noise, it’s easy for earthly concerns to take center stage in your life. Yet, in times of struggle, it becomes even more important to quiet your mind and seek the solitude that Jesus often turned to for comfort and reflection.
Join us on Enders Island for a few Days of Solitude during the Lenten season.&nbsp; Step away from the busyness of life to pray, reconnect with your faith, and grow closer to God in the peaceful seclusion the island provides. During this retreat, you will have the opportunity to meet with a spiritual director, attend daily Mass, pray in our chapels, and walk the beautiful grounds. Experience the serenity that comes from stepping away from the noise and entering into undisturbed, prayerful meditation.
Your retreat will begin with daily Mass at 9 AM, followed by check-in at 10 AM in St. Michael’s Hall. After check-in, the group will gather for a brief discussion on how to approach their time of solitude, offering guidance on prayer, reflection, and spiritual reading. During registration, you will also be assigned a time for a session of spiritual direction before settling into your room. From there, you are invited to spend the day in quiet prayer, walking the grounds, meditating, journaling, or reading. Meals will be provided in silence, fostering an atmosphere of peace and reflection. The retreat will conclude the following day after lunch.
We hope you’ll join us this Lent in uniting your life with Jesus by encountering the solitude needed to restore your spirit, renew your mind, and quiet your heart to hear the voice of God!
Please note: During Lent, we forgo dessert as part of our dedication to reflection and simplicity in this sacred season. If you wish to bring your own dessert items, you may.

Local Event: Lenten Days of Solitude

Lenten Days of Solitude

“Rising very early before dawn, He left and went off to a deserted place, where He prayed.” Mark 1:35 
In a world filled with...

St. Edmund's Retreat Center, 1 Enders Island, Mystic, CT, 06355

This lent, come and discover the master plan of St. James, known as The Forgotten Way. Together we will journey and experience what he means by "Someone who does not trip up in speech has reached perfection." (James 3:2) His plan will teach us how changing your words can transform your life, and that of those around you.
Take a day to pause and reflect upon the call of the Lord. A Day of Recollection provides a quiet moment of prayer in our busy lives. Make some time for yourself and God, share good food, company, and a quiet place to reflect and appreciate your faith.&nbsp;
The day will begin with Mass at 9 am in The Chapel of Our Lady of the Assumption.
From there, please follow the signs to our Registration area. Coffee, tea, and pastries are available before the start of the first conference at 10:30 AM. Included in this day is a hot lunch. This will be served at 12:30 in the dining hall of the Enders House, an early 20th century arts and crafts style mansion and the oldest structure on the island.
Sample Schedule 9:00 am.............................................................Mass 10:00 am.................................Registration &amp; Coffee 10:30 am.........................................First Conference 11:30 am....................................................Reflection 12:30 pm.......................................Hot Served Lunch 1:45 pm......................................Second Conference 2:45 pm.....................................................Reflection 3:00 pm...................................Farewell &amp; Departure

Local Event: The Master Plan of St. James

The Master Plan of St. James

This lent, come and discover the master plan of St. James, known as The Forgotten Way. Together we will journey and experience...

St. Edmund's Retreat Center, ! Enders Island, Mystic, CT 06355

4:30pm Check-In - Friday, March 12, 2027 11:00am Farewell - Sunday, March 14, 2027We say, "It works if you work it" — but how? This retreat explores, from a modern spiritual perspective, the core spiritual movements accomplished through the Twelve Steps. Drawing on the twelve spiritual movements in Richard Rohr's Breathing Under Water and the seven spiritual movements found in the life and spirituality of Venerable Matt Talbot, we'll learn to recognize these movements in our own recovery and spiritual lives and deepen our understanding of how the Steps transform us from the inside out. The retreat includes self-assessment tools and guided meditations on the material.
Enders Island has long been steeped in the traditions and spirituality of the Twelve Step Program which had it's beginnings in 1935 with the birth of AA. Our Recovery Retreats provide a unique opportunity for individuals to encounter and accompany one another as a recovery community seeking to live out the twelve steps, with particular emphasis on the eleventh step:
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood&nbsp;God, praying for the knowledge of God's will for us and for the power to carry that out."&nbsp;
Find solace and renewal on the serene shores of Enders Island. Our single-gender Eleventh Step Weekend Retreats offer a sacred space for reflection, prayer, and connection. Guided by an experienced director, you'll embark on a journey of shared experience, strength, and hope, fostering deeper spiritual growth. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this island sanctuary, enjoying two nights of peaceful respite and five nourishing meals, from Friday evening's dinner to Sunday morning's breakfast.

Local Event: How DOES It Work?; Men's 11th Step Retreat

How DOES It Work?; Men's 11th Step Retreat

4:30pm Check-In - Friday, March 12, 2027 11:00am Farewell - Sunday, March 14, 2027We say, "It works if you work it" — but how?...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Posting Activity

Autumn reflections: A Season of Change and Transformation

NOV

4

10:00 AM

Stonington-Mystic, CT

Women's 11th Step

NOV

6

4:30 PM

Stonington-Mystic, CT

Stories and Stargazing with Brother Guy

NOV

8

6:30 PM

Stonington-Mystic, CT

Living in a Complaint Free World

NOV

11

9:00 AM

Stonington-Mystic, CT

Winter Bereavement

DEC

5

9:00 AM

Stonington-Mystic, CT

Our Lady of Guadalupe: Day of Recollection

DEC

9

9:00 AM

Stonington-Mystic, CT

Awakening Consciousness: A New Year's 11th Step Women's Retreat

JAN

22

4:30 PM

Stonington-Mystic, CT

Women's 11th Step: Learning to Navigate the Challenges to Loving Myself, Others & My Higher Power

FEB

12

4:30 PM

Stonington-Mystic, CT

Day of Recollection with Fr. Brian Daley

FEB

17

9:00 AM

Stonington-Mystic, CT

Lenten Days of Solitude

MAR

8

9:00 AM

Stonington-Mystic, CT

The Master Plan of St. James

MAR

10

9:00 AM

Stonington-Mystic, CT

How DOES It Work?; Men's 11th Step Retreat

MAR

12

4:30 PM

Stonington-Mystic, CT