Washington, Michigan: Capuchin Retreat Center
The history of the Capuchin Retreat Center:
In the early 1950’s, Fr. Lawrence Merten started offering retreats at a home in St. Clair, Michigan. These retreats became so popular that they soon outgrew their space. Then, in 1965, Michigan native and Capuchin retreatant, Art Zaske of Mt. Vernon, provided a 95-acre plot of land for purchase. Fr. Simon Hesse was given the challenge to build a retreat house on this beautiful place. Fr. Simon raised the funds and by 1968 the cornerstone was laid on the first building.
About the Capuchin Retreat Center in Washington, Michigan:
Located on a beautiful 95-acre park-like setting, just an hour north of Detroit, the Capuchin Retreat Center offers a wonderful respite from the busy world in which most of us live. Rooted in the Spirit of the Franciscan tradition of hospitality, simplicity and the Gospel, the facilities include rooms, dining hall, beautiful trails for walking, a gift shop and much more.
They have a preaching staff of two full time Capuchin friars, four part-time lay women, along with an auxiliary preaching staff of eight. The Ovations Dining Service with Chef James and the faithful kitchen staff serve as your dining room hosts.
In addition, there are many volunteers who enhance the charism of Franciscan hospitality. Retreats of various types are scheduled throughout the year, so check the schedule on their website.
Traveling to the Capuchin Retreat Center in Washington, Michigan:
By air: The nearest major airport is Detroit Metropolitan Airport (IATA code DTW). traveling from there to the retreat center has to be done by taxi.
Address: 62460 Mt. Vernon Road, Washington, MI 48094
GPS coordinates: 42° 45′ 10.7928” N, 83° 4′ 57.0720” W
Tel: +1 (248) 651-4826 Fax: +1 (248) 650-4910
Visit the official website of the Capuchin Retreat Center in Washington, Michigan.