Spiritual Direction: (also known as Spiritual Companioning) is a ministry with its roots in the early Church. The early Christians shared their journey with one another: They sought a listening heart from one who was also on the journey. Today, Spiritual Direction is practiced in most world religions, whenever someone seeks another to share their experience of life and God and to find direction. Spiritual Direction is always about YOUR relationship with God and how to integrate that relationship into daily living.

Spiritual Direction can help you through those periods of restlessness and searching for something more in life or help you assess strategies for life choices and significant transitions that you might be facing. Spiritual Direction is not about counseling or solving problems, nor is it about advice giving. Your companion asks questions, offers resource information, and assists you in recognizing and breaking your roadblocks to growth. You will find your own answers.

Here at the PORTIUNCULA Center for Prayer, we have a staff of dedicated and compassionate Spiritual Directors/Companions. Call 815-469-4883 or e-mail info@portforprayer.org for more information or schedule an appointment.

Retreats: The PORT invites you to a variety of scheduled groups retreats on different themes. A group retreat generally includes; one or two presentations, common and personal prayer time, Eucharist and sometimes opportunities to meet with the retreat director.

You could also schedule a personal directed retreat at your convenience. In this you can avail yourself of the opportunity to meet a retreat director daily. Enjoy the peace and harmony of the woods, walk the labyrinth and just BE.

Hermitage Experience: is a place for contemplation and solitude designed in the tradition of Franciscan simplicity. Occupy a unique position in the Franciscan tradition. For mystics in the marketplace the hermitage is a secluded space to withdraw in prayer for the soul's nourishment and then return to everyday life. Secluded within 55 acres of beautiful wooded land are six hermitage spaced dedicated for solitude.

Labyrinth: is an ancient spiritual act and a physical meditation that is being rediscovered during our time. It is an archetype, a divine imprint found in all religious tradition in various forms around the world. Anyone from any tradition or spiritual path can walk into the labyrinth and benefit, through reflecting in the present moment.

A labyrinth is an ancient circular diagram. It consists of a single concentric circular path with no possibility of going astray. The path winds throughout and becomes a mirror for where we are in our lives; it touches our sorrows and releases our joys. So walk it with an open mind and an open heart.

Gift Shop: is on-site at the retreat center. Avail yourself of the opportunity to pick up a good book or two, spiritual music and other little gift items to nourish your spirit.