Emmaus Retreats

The Road to Emmaus

The Gospel of St. Luke relates the story of the risen Christ appearing to two men who were going along the road from Jerusalem to Emmaus. They were walking together, sharing their hearts' deepest concerns. The risen Christ joined them and explained the scriptures as they walked, how it was ordained that Christ should suffer and so enter His glory. This experience on the road was a heart-warming experience as the risen Christ walked and talked with them. The illuminating climax of the experience was when Christ took bread and said the blessing, then broke it and gave it to them. The two had their eyes opened and they recognized Him as the risen Christ and they rushed back to Jerusalem to tell the others.

— Referencing “The Appearance on the Road to Emmaus,” Luke 24: 13-35 READ LUKE 24 NOW

What is Emmaus?

A weekend to explore

“Emmaus” is a retreat weekend designed for men who feel they would like to explore a deeper relationship with God. Every one of us has considered the questions, “Does God really exist?” or “How should God’s existence affect my life?” Unfortunately, we are all very busy and don’t allow ourselves enough time to explore the answers. That’s what the Emmaus retreat is for.

The men organizing and hosting the Emmaus retreat are regular guys who will not try to convince you of their answers; instead they will share their own experiences with you and let you draw your own conclusions. We are not men born Holy, and we have each led very different lives. But, through the power of the Holy Spirit, we have found our way back to the Lord and would like to tell you about these life-changing experiences. For many of us, it was during an Emmaus Retreat that our hearts were touched and opened by God.

The food is abundant, the place is calm and peaceful, and we know it will be a weekend that you will NEVER forget. Your time invested will pay huge dividends!

Invest a bit of your time. Rethink, refocus, reflect, and find your way.

If you don’t have time to make a retreat like this, it means you NEED a retreat like this!

The Appearance on the Road to Emmaus — Painting by Fracois Verdier

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Questions & Answers

Good to know

What is and who serves this ministry?

This Emmaus retreat was started over 40 years ago at St. Louis Catholic Church in Miami, FL by lay women and men. It has since spread around the world even in countries like China and Cuba. The retreat is based on the Gospel of Luke when Jesus joins the two disciples on their WALK to Emmaus and helps us to see how Jesus walks with each of us on our life journey today.

How do these retreats work?

You will hear a series of talks by other men concerning their own experiences. You will have a chance to reflect, pray, and consider the bigger, really meaningful questions of life in a place that is far enough away to separate you from the distractions of everyday life and leave knowing that you are not alone and have a community of brothers and sisters walking with you through life.

What about God?

One way, among many, you can help answer that question is with this Emmaus Retreat, led by men, like you, who have struggled with the same questions about life that you have. The Emmaus Retreat is designed to be low-key and not “preachy.” You will listen to other men like yourself talk about their journey to know more about God. It is not required for you to be of any particular faith or church.

How long does the weekend last?

You’ll need to arrive at the retreat's location on Friday evening between 5:00 PM and 5:30 PM. The weekend will conclude no later than 5:00 PM on Sunday. For specific details, see the upcoming retreats.

How do I dress for the weekend and what should I bring?

Dress is extremely casual and comfortable. Bring a change of clothes for two days and your personal toiletries (toothbrush, comb, etc.). Everything else is provided.

What about food?

All food and drink will be provided. When you arrive Friday evening there will be a light meal for those who will not have had time to grab dinner. If you have any special dietary requirements, let us know on the application form.

Where will I be staying at?

The accommodations will vary from retreat to retreat. Please see the information on each upcoming retreat for the specifics of the retreat you are interested in.

How much does Emmaus cost?

We try to keep the cost of the retreat fees as low as possible - they typically include the retreat center, a two-night stay, food, and a retreat shirt. We have scholarships available for those who may need them, you can select this option on the application form if needed.

How do I pay the retreat fee?

After starting the application process, you will be directed to a secure web form where you can make payment online. Checks can also be sent by mail.

See upcoming retreats