Thomas P. Joyce '59 Contemplative Center

A place for stillness, reflection, and prayer, the Thomas P. Joyce ’59 Contemplative Center is the home of our spiritual retreats whose purpose is to help members of the Holy Cross community deepen their relationship with God and grow in self-knowledge and interior freedom.

Our retreats are fundamental to the mission of the College in teaching the art of Ignatian discernment and in fostering a commitment to the service of faith and the promotion of justice. In offering a vibrant retreat program we hope that all members of the Holy Cross community will become more deeply grounded in the experience of God’s enduring love for each of us, so that we may look to use our gifts and talents in the service of the neighbor.

The chaplains invite students, faculty, staff and alumni of all faith traditions and beliefs to participate in the programs at the center.

Opportunities include:

The Spiritual Exercises, a five-day silent retreat based on the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola
Manresa, a student-led weekend retreat
Escape retreat for first-year students
retreat for LGBTQIA+ students and alumni
athletic team evenings of reflection
Montserrat class evenings of contemplation
“Eat, Pray, Study” retreat during finals study period
faculty and staff meditation retreats
Ignatian Alumni Weekend
many other evening, day, and weekend opportunities for prayer and reflection

Take Part in a Retreat

Our retreat programs give students and alumni opportunities to focus on faith and discernment.
View the student schedule »
View the alumni schedule »

Students and alumni frequently cite their participation in retreats as one of the highlights of their Holy Cross experience. Indeed, the retreat experience is one of the primary aspects of Holy Cross life that sets us apart.

Situated on a 52-acre parcel of land in West Boylston, Mass., just 20 minutes from campus, the Joyce Contemplative Center overlooks breathtaking views of the Wachusett Reservoir. The building includes a chapel, meeting rooms, dining room, and bedrooms for 60 individuals.