The practice of silence

In a silent retreat, participants step away from the routines and demands of everyday life for a time. It is an opportunity to create space for listening to oneself and, at the same time, for listening to the voice of God. Retreatants are invited simply to be, together in silence, in God’s presence and under the guidance of retreat leaders through times of prayer, worship services, and, if desired, private conversations. The retreat also offers the peace and privacy of one’s own room, the care of the retreat centre staff, and the joy of enjoying wholesome, prepared meals.

The purpose of a retreat is to respond to a person’s spiritual longing, need, or search. A retreat is both a personal and a deeply communal experience, where mutual respect and consideration for others are essential. Shared spaces at the retreat centre usually include the chapel, lounge, dining area, and library. Participants do not engage in conversation with one another during the retreat, allowing space for rest, renewal, reflection on life’s questions, prayer, and attentive listening to one’s own wellbeing and spiritual life.

Retreat ministry, Christian spirituality, contemplative prayer, and spiritual direction in Finland are supported by Friends of Silence (Hiljaisuuden Ystävät), an ecumenically minded association rooted in the confession of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland.

At Hyllykallio Parish Hall on Sundays at 5 pm, join us for Taizé chants and prayers in silence.

You are warmly welcome to embrace the seven blessings, guiding values, and key themes of a pilgrim’s journey: simplicity, spirituality, unhurriedness, silence, freedom from worry, freedom, and sharing.