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

Join world-renowned iconographer Marek Czarnecki for a traditional icon workshop. Discover the spiritual and technical artistry behind sacred image-making in this immersive experience. Whether you are a beginner or have prior experience, you will learn the ancient techniques of traditional iconography. The specific icon to be painted will be announced soon. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn from a master and connect with a rich, living tradition.
All materials and tools needed to complete an icon are provided. Students attending the workshop should arrive with basic brush skills, a familiarity with the color wheel, and experience mixing colors.
This week-long workshop will include five consecutive days of studio time. Check-in begins Sunday night at 4:30 PM, followed by dinner at 5:30 PM for students and instructors. Dinner will be followed by a workshop introduction and conference, ending at 9:00 PM. Hands-on instruction begins early Monday morning, and the last meal will be lunch on Friday. The art studio will be available on Friday afternoon to complete your icon.
&nbsp;&nbsp;
Workshop &amp; commuter. Includes Daily Lunch and Dinner : $1010.00
Workshop with Private Room:&nbsp; : $1485.00
If you would like to inquire about a&nbsp;Shared Room option, please call the main office.
Please call the office for more information: (860) 536-0565
<img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2021/08/20210812_153434-scaled-e1643061641833-300x225.jpg">

Local Event: Essentials of Iconography: Mother of Our God of Kazan

New London County

Stonington-Mystic

Connecticut

Essentials of Iconography: Mother of Our God of...

Join world-renowned iconographer Marek Czarnecki for a traditional icon workshop. Discover the spiritual and technical artistry...

Essentials of Iconography: Mother of Our God of Kazan

The Holy Family is a beloved image for many - offering a picture of the vocations of father, mother, and child.&nbsp; Saint Joseph was given the task of protecting Saint Mary and baby Jesus in the scriptures from King Herod, being told in a dream to take them to safety in Egypt during the Martyr of the Innocents.&nbsp; Saint Joseph serves as a model for both fatherhood and adopted fatherhood.&nbsp; This image is a wonderful piece to display in the home.&nbsp; We can see their example of family and model our own families.&nbsp; Joshua 24:15c KJV "&nbsp;but as for me and my house, we will serve the&nbsp;Lord."
"Oh, blest the house, whate'er befall,
Where Jesus Christ is all in all!
A home that is not wholly His --
How sad and poor and dark it is!"
Oh, Blest the House - Christoph Carl Ludwig von Pfeil 
This workshop will be a four layer technique illustration of the Holy Family in watercolor. Students start with a tracing of the original icon outline.&nbsp; We apply many layers to capture the depth and dimension, applying layers of red below the halos and gold background for warmth and shine.&nbsp; The painting itself follows a system of local color, shade, and light.&nbsp; The final image has golden accents.
For the class, students will produce a watercolor image with depth, dimension, and beauty to adorn the home or give as a gift on 14 x 11 paper.
All materials and tools needed to complete an icon are provided. Students should arrive with basic brush skills, a familiarity with the color wheel, and some experience mixing colors.
This week-long workshop begins with check-in at 4:30 PM on Sunday night, followed by dinner at 5:30 PM for students and instructors. Dinner will be followed by a workshop introduction and conference, which ends at 8:00 PM. You are welcome to attend daily Mass at 9 AM. Hands-on instruction begins Monday morning after Mass. The workshop concludes Friday at 1 PM.
<img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/02/68E5C487-D241-4C2B-AB5C-C421B298147C_1_201_a-scaled-e1740679496449-300x225.jpeg"><img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/02/Screen-Shot-2025-02-25-at-11.41.01-AM-300x187.png">
Private Room &amp; Workshop - $1485.00
Shared Room &amp; Workshop - $1335.00
These rates include daily breakfast, lunch and dinner.&nbsp;
Commuter &amp; Workshop - $1010.00
This includes daily lunch and dinner.&nbsp;

Local Event: Holy Family Watercolor Painting Class

Holy Family Watercolor Painting Class

The Holy Family is a beloved image for many - offering a picture of the vocations of father, mother, and child.  Saint Joseph...

This day will be a time to rest by the Ocean with like-minded people who enjoy the blessings of taking time on the journey of life. It might be called a time to re-boot the pace of daily life as we might re-boot a computer. Turn it off for five minutes. When it is turned back on it works well and smoothly. To help do this we will use the imaginative style of prayer taught by St. Ignatius. Bring your bible and your journal. There will be time for confession or -1- meetings.
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: Come Away For a While and Rest with Me

Come Away For a While and Rest with Me

This day will be a time to rest by the Ocean with like-minded people who enjoy the blessings of taking time on the journey of...

<h3>This retreat is for all women and is not recovery specific.</h3>
Join us for a transformative weekend retreat at the serene and sacred Enders Island, where women from all walks of life are invited to explore the profound wisdom of the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Rooted in spiritual principles and grounded in practical tools for living, the 12 Steps offer a pathway to healing, freedom, and growth that is universally applicable.
During this retreat, we will unpack how the 12 Steps align with Catholic teachings and how they can empower women to find greater peace, purpose, and joy in their everyday lives. Whether you are familiar with the 12 Steps or discovering them for the first time, this weekend will provide an opportunity for self-reflection, spiritual renewal, and community support.
Come and experience the beauty of Enders Island while growing in faith and fellowship. This retreat is open to all women, whether you are seeking support in a specific area of life or simply desiring to live more fully in God’s grace.
Discover the freedom and serenity that comes from living the 12 Steps with the guidance of faith and the support of a nurturing community. Reserve your spot today!
Check-In Friday 4:30 PM, the weekend will conclude on Sunday at&nbsp; 11:00 AM

Local Event: Finding Freedom and Grace: A Woman’s Journey Through the 12 Steps

Finding Freedom and Grace: A Woman’s Journey...

This retreat is for all women and is not recovery specific.
Join us for a transformative weekend retreat at the serene and...

Finding Freedom and Grace: A Woman’s Journey Through the 12 Steps

Praying With a Brush is a one-day workshop for iconographers interested in learning the basic brush skills necessary to paint an icon. You will start with a repertoire of basic calligraphic brush strokes and practice exercises using only ink and a brush. Using traditional, art historical Orthodox icons as models, you will be taught to make your own drawings. After placing an acetate transparency over the model, you will rediscover, line by line, the icon’s inner geometry, balance, order, and structure.
You will continue onto the more painterly process of modeling soft passages of tone using a dry brush technique. Using the instructor’s prepared models and exercises, you will practice creating the icon’s characteristic inner glow, building a ramp from dark to light with many transparent layers, finally reaching a bright opacity.
As you work, you will pray in a familiar way to the holy person represented in the icon. With each brush stroke, you will repeat the prayer “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner.” Based on the prayer of the repentant publican in Luke 18:9, this practice is a cornerstone of Eastern Orthodox piety. While writing an icon, it quiets your mind and focuses your hand, and can be used as a way to pray without ceasing outside of icon painting.
This workshop can be taken on its own, or as preparation for the Essentials of Iconography workshop. It is applicable to all schools of icon painting, in all mediums.
You are welcome to start your day with Mass at 9 AM. Check in and coffee with be at 10 AM in the Sacred Art Studio.
Lunch served in the dining of the Enders House, an early 20th century arts and crafts style mansion and the oldest structure on the island.
The day will conclude at approximately 6 PM.

Local Event: Praying with a Brush: A Sacred Art Workshop

Praying with a Brush: A Sacred Art Workshop

Praying With a Brush is a one-day workshop for iconographers interested in learning the basic brush skills necessary to paint...

<h3>We are invited into the heart of God where you will discover that you are "God's Beloved".</h3>
This retreat will explore the scriptures, the stories of Jesus and the life and witness of great saints and spiritual writers where you will rediscover your identity as a Child of God.
A guided retreat is a time for spiritual renewal, offering space for prayer, reflection, and community. Each day includes Mass at 9 AM, time for personal reflection, and opportunities for confession. Two daily conferences provide inspiring talks and guidance to deepen your relationship with God. The retreat also encourages meaningful interactions and shared experiences, creating a supportive and enriching atmosphere for spiritual growth.&nbsp;
Check-in for the retreat begins at Sunday June 28, 2026&nbsp;4:30 PM. Upon arrival, you will have the opportunity to settle into your room and familiarize yourself with the retreat center. Dinner will be served at 5:30 PM in the main house.&nbsp;
Friday, July 3, 2026, Farwell 1:00 PM

&nbsp;Take this opportunity to get away from the noise and routine of everyday life. Let the Holy Spirit inspire and renew you.&nbsp;

Local Event: The Way of the Heart

The Way of the Heart

We are invited into the heart of God where you will discover that you are "God's Beloved".
This retreat will explore the...

Experience the Magic of Nocturnal Painting on Enders Island!
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable night of plein air painting, where the Island’s serene coastal landscape will come to life under the glow of the moonlight.
Your evening begins at dusk with preliminary sketches, focusing on composition and the shifting tones of twilight. As darkness falls, you will embrace the unique challenges of nocturnal painting—capturing the subtle interplay of artificial and natural light while learning to translate nighttime color and atmosphere onto canvas.
Under the expert guidance of Dan DeLouise, you will receive personalized instruction to develop your technique and confidence in painting after dark. This workshop is open to artists of all skill levels, offering a rare opportunity to explore light and shadow in an entirely new way.
Each participant is responsible for bringing their own painting materials and a light source. Join us for an inspiring night of creativity on the scenic grounds of Enders Island!
&nbsp;The program will begin at 7 PM and conclude at 10 PM.
&nbsp;You are welcome to arrive any time after 6:30. Check in will be in the Sacred Art Studio. Artists will paint behind the Main House.
You will need to bring your own materials for this class.
Suggested materials:
<ul><li>Portable easel and palette</li><li>BRUSHES: a variety of sizes Filbert and flat head. #1 - #12</li><li>Palette knife(s) for mixing and application</li><li>Oil PAINTS:</li><li>Cadmium red</li><li>Cadmium yellow deep</li><li>Cadmium orange</li><li>Alizarin crimson</li><li>Yellow Ochr</li><li>Sap green</li><li>Burnt sienna</li><li>Cobalt blue</li><li>Ultramarine blue</li><li>Titanium white</li><li>Mars Black</li><li>Linseed oil and turpentine or equivalent and containers for the above mediums.</li><li>8x10, 9x12, 11x14 canvas or gessoed board.</li><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Music-Orchestra-Light-Rechargeable-Reading/dp/B08C9Z3BTS/ref=dp_prsubs_m_sccl_1/146-8075582-8864868?pd_rd_w=Ex7uP&amp;content-id=amzn1.sym.bfaa272e-956c-4c08-b704-6d06ad53de57&amp;pf_rd_p=bfaa272e-956c-4c08-b704-6d06ad53de57&amp;pf_rd_r=A0MCR863APEMSV5KZ1FX&amp;pd_rd_wg=iCIF4&amp;pd_rd_r=ba041b69-f0ab-4ed2-b268-0b3ffe4fa7d4&amp;pd_rd_i=B08C9Z3BTS&amp;psc=1" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"> Light</a></li></ul>
Two cordless lights will be needed, one for palette and one for your canvas.
<img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/03/FB_IMG_1742495922917-300x236.jpg"><img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/03/FB_IMG_1742495883642-250x300.jpg"><img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/03/FB_IMG_1742495836250-218x300.jpg"><img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/03/FB_IMG_1742495858543-253x300.jpg">

Local Event: Full Moon Nocturnal Plein Air Oil Painting Workshop

Full Moon Nocturnal Plein Air Oil Painting...

Experience the Magic of Nocturnal Painting on Enders Island!
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable night of plein air painting,...

Full Moon Nocturnal Plein Air Oil Painting Workshop

Friday, July 3, Check -In 4:30 PM Sunday, July 5, Farwell 1:00 PM&nbsp;
As we celebrate the Semi quincentennial of our country, let’s&nbsp;take a look at some of the saints who could be know as ‘Patron Saints of Freedom’. Each of them shows, in their own way, how freedom is strongest when lived for others. Some we may be familiar with St. John Paul II, St. Teresa of Calcutta, St. Katherine Drexel, St. Oscar Romero, St. Damien of Molokai. Some others who are also noteworthy: St. Maximilian Kolbe, St. Peter Claver, St. Josephine Bakhita, St. Martin de Porres and St. Bartolome Las Casas. Let their witness inspire renewal of America’s founding ideals for every generation.
Ender’s Island is the perfect setting for deepening your relationship with God and renewing your faith in the hope of His promises. Join us for a weekend of serenity on the beautiful grounds of Enders Island. This retreat will allow you to reconnect with God and find peace within the beauty of His creation. Share good food, great company, and a quiet place to pray and reflect upon the call of Our Lord.

Local Event: Patron Saints of Freedom

Patron Saints of Freedom

Friday, July 3, Check -In 4:30 PM Sunday, July 5, Farwell 1:00 PM 
As we celebrate the Semi quincentennial of our country,...

Learn to master color using both the restricted palette of Velazquez and the luminous palette of Sorolla. Using soft pastels, this class will explore historic palettes and color theory, while challenging the student to see color accurately and apply it strategically.&nbsp;
This week-long workshop begins with check-in at 4:30 PM on Sunday night. Dinner is served at 5:30 PM for students and instructors. Dinner is followed by a workshop introduction and conference which ends at 9:00 PM.&nbsp;Students are welcome to attend daily Mass at 9 AM.&nbsp;Hands-on instruction begins Monday morning after Mass.&nbsp; The entire workshop ends Friday at 1 PM.
Private Room &amp; Workshop - $1485
These rates include daily breakfast, lunch and dinner.&nbsp;
Commuter &amp; Workshop - $1010
This includes daily lunch and dinner.&nbsp;
Workshop Materials:
A $100 materials fee is included in the cost of this workshop.
All materials used in this workshop will be pre-ordered and made available to students in the classroom by the instructor.
All other equipment and art supplies are the property of the Enders Island Sacred Art Institute.
<img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/02/maria-dressed-as-a-valencian-peasant-girl_joaquin-sorolla-y-bastida__75334-sm-236x300.jpg">
Sorolla y Bastida, Maria Dressed as a Valencian Peasant Girl, 1906 (detail)
<img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/02/La_dama_del_abanico_por_Diego_Velazquez-223x300.jpg">
Velázquez, The Lady with the Fan, 1638
<img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/02/bastida019-241x300.jpg">
Sorolla y Bastida, Maria, the Pretty One, 1914
If you would like to inquire about a&nbsp;Shared Room option, please call the main office.
Please call the office for more information: (860) 536-0565

Local Event: Mastering Color in Soft Pastels

Mastering Color in Soft Pastels

Learn to master color using both the restricted palette of Velazquez and the luminous palette of Sorolla. Using soft pastels,...

Sunday, August 2, 2026- Check -In 4:30 PM Friday, August 7, 2026- Farewell 1:00 PMIn this intensive workshop, Erin will guide participants through the process of sculpting a realistic portrait bust, drawing upon the techniques of the masters. Students will work from a live&nbsp; model and apply anatomical knowledge to achieve lifelike and expressive representation.
Participants will be led step-by-step through each stage of the sculpting process, from initial&nbsp; construction to final refinement. Emphasis will be placed on mastering proportional and gestural accuracy, achieving symmetry, understanding structural anatomy, and capturing the likeness of the model. Each day will feature detailed explanations using visual references, and individualized instruction tailored to each participant’s needs.
Students will work from a live model (provided) in small groups of four or less to ensure personalized attention and an enriching learning environment.
No prior sculpting experience is required. Erin will assess each participant’s skill level and provide guidance accordingly.
Sculpture armatures will be provided. Participants should bring with them a water bottle and wooden clay modeling tools.
At Enders Island, all of our workshops are grounded in the Theology of Sacred Art. Each class is specially designed to teach the history and techniques of the discipline in a way that is both accessible to the beginner and challenging for the experienced artist. All workshops are paced so that participants leave with a finished work of art.&nbsp;
This week-long workshop's studio time lasts five consecutive days. Check-in begins Sunday night at 4:30. Dinner is served at 5:30 pm for students and instructors. Dinner is followed by a workshop introduction and conference, which ends at 9:00 pm. Hands-on instruction begins early Monday morning. The entire workshop ends Friday at 1 PM.
 <img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/02/Portrait-1-300x200.jpg"><img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/02/Sculpture-3-237x300.jpg"><img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/02/Sculpture-1-300x300.jpg">

Local Event: The Sacred Bust: A Realistic Sculpting Workshop

The Sacred Bust: A Realistic Sculpting Workshop

Sunday, August 2, 2026- Check -In 4:30 PM Friday, August 7, 2026- Farewell 1:00 PMIn this intensive workshop, Erin will guide...

Sunday, August 9, 2026, Check -In 4:30 PMFriday, August 14, 2026, Farewell 1 PM<h4>Take time to explore the many colors of grief. Whether through death or a life event grief is felt in many ways. Together we will look at the commonalities we all share in grief as well examine where in scripture Jesus experiences grief Himself or shares in the grief of another. This week will give room for times of quiet reflection, shared prayer, and a sharing of our grief journey.</h4>
A guided retreat is a time for spiritual renewal, offering space for prayer, reflection, and community. Each day includes Mass at 9 AM, time for personal reflection, and opportunities for confession. Two daily conferences provide inspiring talks and guidance to deepen your relationship with God. The retreat also encourages meaningful interactions and shared experiences, creating a supportive and enriching atmosphere for spiritual growth.&nbsp;
Check-in for the retreat begins at 4:30 PM. Upon arrival, you will have the opportunity to settle into your room and familiarize yourself with the retreat center. Dinner will be served at 5:30 PM in the main house.
&nbsp;Take this opportunity to get away from the noise and routine of everyday life. Let the Holy Spirit inspire and renew you.&nbsp;

Local Event: And Jesus Wept

And Jesus Wept

Sunday, August 9, 2026, Check -In 4:30 PMFriday, August 14, 2026, Farewell 1 PMTake time to explore the many colors of grief....

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

This workshop will introduce and teach you the basic technique of traditional glass painting used in stained glass. The theme and design maquette will be provided by the instructor, though your own design ideas are welcome and can be adjusted based on time frame, difficulty, and ability. After choosing your design, you will cut glass, learn how to mix and apply glass pigment through a specific process, fire the paint, and use silver stain. At the end of the week, each participant will create a small artwork to take home.
This week-long workshop’s studio time lasts five consecutive days. Check-in begins Sunday night at 4:30 PM, followed by dinner at 5:30 PM for students and instructors. Dinner will be followed by a workshop introduction and conference, ending at 9:00 PM. Hands-on instruction begins early Monday morning, and the entire workshop ends Friday at 1 PM. Materials will be provided.
 Private Room: Workshop + Daily Meal Package* + Private Room: $1485.00
 Shared Room: Workshop + Daily Meal Package* + Shared Room: $1335.00
 Commuter: Workshop + Daily Lunch and Dinner: $1010.00
*Hot Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and snacks. For more reservation details, contact us at: (860) 536-0565

Local Event: Painting on Stained Glass: A Sacred Art Workshop

Painting on Stained Glass: A Sacred Art Workshop

This workshop will introduce and teach you the basic technique of traditional glass painting used in stained glass. The theme...

Sunday, August 16, Check -In 4:30 PM Friday August 21, Farewell 1 PMThis workshop is a deep dive into the devotion of the Immaculate Heart of Mary through mediation and painting.&nbsp; The introductory lecture, entitled “The Blessed Virgin in Art: developing a Christocentric vision,” will provide a brief history of Marian art, as well as an invitation for artists to adopt the postures of Sts. John the Apostle and Mary Magdalene in their approach to the week.&nbsp; Working from a traditional print of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, artists will be guided to go beyond the modest source material by applying classical painting concepts, finishing with an archival painting that can be passed down to generations.&nbsp; This week is a beautiful opportunity to grow closer to Our Blessed Mother in preparation for the Solemnity of the Queenship of Mary (Aug 22nd). All levels of experience are welcome.
At Enders Island, all of our workshops are grounded in the Theology of Sacred Art. Each class is specially designed to teach the history and techniques of the discipline in a way that is both accessible to the beginner and challenging for the experienced artist. All workshops are paced so that participants leave with a finished work of art.&nbsp;
This week-long workshop's studio time lasts five consecutive days. Check-in begins Sunday night at 4:30. Dinner is served at 5:30 pm for students and instructors. Dinner is followed by a workshop introduction and conference, which ends at 9:00 pm. Hands-on instruction begins early Monday morning. The entire workshop ends Friday at 1 PM.

Local Event: Immaculate Heart of Mary Oil Painting Workshop

Immaculate Heart of Mary Oil Painting Workshop

Sunday, August 16, Check -In 4:30 PM Friday August 21, Farewell 1 PMThis workshop is a deep dive into the devotion of the...

A serene and spiritually enriching Day of Recollection focused on the Rosary awaits you on&nbsp; Enders Island. This retreat offers a unique opportunity to deepen your connection to Christ and His Blessed Mother through prayer, reflection, and contemplation.
The program includes reflections on the Mysteries of the Rosary, communal prayer, and time for private devotion. Attendees will also have the opportunity to walk the Rosary Walk, a sacred space for meditation and prayer, enhancing the day's spiritual experience.
Participants will enjoy quiet moments for personal reflection, Mass, and the beautiful surroundings of Enders Island. Meals will be provided, allowing time to connect with fellow participants.
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;Lunch 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.
Step away from the busyness of daily life and immerse yourself in the spiritual treasures of the Rosary.

Local Event: Walking with Mary

Walking with Mary

A serene and spiritually enriching Day of Recollection focused on the Rosary awaits you on  Enders Island. This retreat offers...

Join us for an inspiring day as you take a guided tour through a breathtaking dahlia garden, where beauty and grace bloom in harmony. This peaceful day will be a chance to admire the vibrant variety of dahlias and how they are cultivated.
The tour will begin with an introduction to the history of Enders Island and the gardens, followed by a walk through the dahlia garden led by our own dahlia caretaker. You’ll learn about the different varieties, their growth cycles and general care.&nbsp;
The morning tour will be followed by a delightful lunch in the Arts and Craft style Main House. The afternoon tour will join the morning attendees for lunch. Enjoy a freshly prepared meal as you share in conversation.
This day promises to be both a visual and spiritual feast, offering moments of reflection, learning, and rest in the beauty of nature.
This morning tour will begin at 11 AM, followed by lunch served at 12:30 PM. The day will conclude at 1:30 PM.

Local Event: In the Garden of Grace: A Morning Dahlia Tour

In the Garden of Grace: A Morning Dahlia Tour

Join us for an inspiring day as you take a guided tour through a breathtaking dahlia garden, where beauty and grace bloom in...

Join us for an inspiring day as you take a guided tour through a breathtaking dahlia garden, where beauty and grace bloom in harmony. This peaceful day will be a chance to admire the vibrant variety of dahlias and how they are cultivated.
The Day will begin with a freshly prepared meal as you share in conversation and fellowship.&nbsp; Lunch will be served in the Enders House, an Arts and Craft Style home. Your tour will begin with an introduction to the history of Enders Island and the gardens, followed by a walk through the dahlia garden led by our own dahlia caretaker. You’ll learn about the different varieties, their growth cycles and general care.&nbsp;

This day promises to be both a visual and spiritual feast, offering moments of reflection, learning, and rest in the beauty of nature.
This day will begin with lunch served at 12:30 in the Enders House. The garden tour will begin at 1:30 PM.

Local Event: In the Garden of Grace: An Afternoon Dahlia Tour

In the Garden of Grace: An Afternoon Dahlia Tour

4:30 pm Check-In - August 21, 2026 11:00 am Farewell - August 23, 2026ln the midst of busy lives it is easy to let go of what we say is the most important part of life: our relationship with God. This weekend will be a time to kick-back in this beautiful place by the Sea, with old and new friends. The talks will focus on God, the source of recovery. Sometimes we hold 'old ideas' and need to re-discover what it means to be a believer. Our goal is to be better able to go forward on the road to happy destiny with as much peace and joy as we can muster and how we can Keep the Faith in the midst of whatever comes our way in this life. There will be time for Mass and confessions or 1-1 meetings.
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;

Local Event: Keep the Faith, A Men's 11th Step Retreat

Keep the Faith, A Men's 11th Step Retreat

4:30 pm Check-In - August 21, 2026 11:00 am Farewell - August 23, 2026ln the midst of busy lives it is easy to let go of what...

This retreat is ideal for those seeking to deepen their prayer life, discern God’s will, or experience spiritual renewal. Tailored to the unique needs of each participant, the directed retreat offers a flexible and transformative journey. Whether you are new to prayer or have an established spiritual practice, this retreat provides an opportunity to encounter God’s presence in a powerful and personal way.
Check-in for the retreat begins at 4:30 PM. Upon arrival, you will have the opportunity to settle into your room and familiarize yourself with the retreat center. Dinner will be served at 5:30 PM in the main house.
During the retreat, Mass will be celebrated daily at 9:00 AM. Each participant will&nbsp; have the opportunity for a daily meeting with a Spiritual Director to deepen their spiritual journey.
Meals will be taken in silence, fostering an atmosphere of prayerful contemplation and interior focus. Ample time will be provided for personal prayer, meditation, and spiritual renewal.
The retreat will conclude on Friday at 1 PM.&nbsp;

Local Event: A  Week of Silence and Prayer

A  Week of Silence and Prayer

This retreat is ideal for those seeking to deepen their prayer life, discern God’s will, or experience spiritual renewal....

Sunday, August 23, Check -In 4:30 PM Friday, August 28, Farewell 1 pm
Inspired by the sacred-art tradition of the Old Masters, this workshop guides artists in the foundational drawing skills needed to create beautiful and meaningful portrait drawings. Students receive personalized, one-on-one instruction while working with a live model to render the human form with accuracy and spiritual depth. This workshop is open to artists of all levels and the instructor will focus on each individual student, no matter their level of experience.
At Enders Island, all of our workshops are grounded in the Theology of Sacred Art. Each class is specially designed to teach the history and techniques of the discipline in a way that is both accessible to the beginner and challenging for the experienced artist. All workshops are paced so that participants leave with a finished work of art.&nbsp;
This week-long workshop's studio time lasts five consecutive days. Check-in begins Sunday night at 4:30. Dinner is served at 5:30 pm for students and instructors. Dinner is followed by a workshop introduction and conference, which ends at 9:00 pm. Hands-on instruction begins&nbsp; Monday morning. The entire workshop ends Friday at 1 PM.
<img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/10/94994F33-ECBD-4FB1-BEAE-9C14B5EFA0A7-1-225x300.jpeg"><img src="https://endersisland.secure.retreat.guru/wp-content/uploads/sites/739/2025/10/CF7E253E-1F16-4177-8787-2E6FCFD58C89-300x149.jpeg">

Local Event: Drawn to the Sacred: The Classical Portrait

Drawn to the Sacred: The Classical Portrait

Sunday, August 23, Check -In 4:30 PM Friday, August 28, Farewell 1 pm
Inspired by the sacred-art tradition of the Old Masters,...

Local Event: Nocturnal Plein Air Oil Painting Workshop

Nocturnal Plein Air Oil Painting Workshop

Tracie Georgetti

Chris Rhatigan 

Hartford Metropolitan Area

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Join us for The Sunday Jam Sessions at Deans Mill Farm! 🍻🎶 Come out and enjoy a fun-filled evening at Deans Mill Farm every Sunday 2:30 pm - 5:30 PM this season! We’ve got live music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks to help you kick off your weekend early. It’s the perfect way to relax with friends, family, or even make new ones. 🌟 What to Expect: * Live Music from local artists * Food Trucks with tasty options to satisfy every craving * Signature Drinks and cold beverages to keep you refreshed Whether you’re enjoying the outdoor atmosphere or relaxing with a drink in hand, Deans Mill Farm is the place to be. It's family-friendly and free to attend, so bring everyone along! Please, no animals &amp; no outside alcohol. 🕓 When: Every Sunday from Sunday, May 3rd - Thursday, October 29th 📍Where: Deans Mill Farm, 1189 Pequot Trail, Stonington, CT *Weather Permitting. Times Subject To Change* Mark your calendars and spread the word! We can’t wait to see you there!

Local Event: Sunday Jams at Deans Mill Farm  w. Robbed by Locals 

Sunday Jams at Deans Mill Farm  w. Robbed by...

Join us for The Sunday Jam Sessions at Deans Mill Farm! 🍻🎶 Come out and enjoy a fun-filled evening at Deans Mill Farm every...

Sunday Jams at Deans Mill Farm  w. Robbed by Locals 

Join us for Thirsty Thursdays at Deans Mill Farm! 🍻🎶
 Come out and enjoy a fun-filled evening at Deans Mill Farm every Thursday 5:30 - 8:30 PM this season! We’ve got live music, delicious food, and refreshing drinks to help you kick off your weekend early. It’s the perfect way to relax with friends, family, or even make new ones.
 🌟 What to Expect: * Live Music from local artists * Food Trucks with tasty options to satisfy every craving * Signature Drinks and cold beverages to keep you refreshed 
Whether you’re enjoying the outdoor atmosphere or relaxing with a drink in hand, Thirsty Thursday is the place to be. It's family-friendly and free to attend, so bring everyone along! Please, no animals &amp; no outside alcohol.
🕓 When: Every Thursday from Thursday, May 1st - Thursday, October 30th
📍 Where: Deans Mill Farm, 1189 Pequot Trail, Stonington, CT 
*Weather Permitting. Times Subject To Change* Mark your calendars and spread the word! We can’t wait to see you there!

Local Event: Thirsty Thursdays at Deans Mill Farm w. James Harris 

Thirsty Thursdays at Deans Mill Farm w. James...

Join us for Thirsty Thursdays at Deans Mill Farm! 🍻🎶
 Come out and enjoy a fun-filled evening at Deans Mill Farm every Thursday...

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