Our Lady of Solitude Monastery welcomes lay individuals and small groups to experience a Desert Day of Prayer. This single-day retreat offers a quiet refuge for members of the laity seeking silence, solitude, Eucharistic Adoration, and deeper intimacy with God.
Participation
Desert Days are open to individuals and small groups of up to twenty people, such as those from local parishes or schools, who are seeking a day of silence, solitude, and prayer.
Please note that we do not host couples' retreats. Those interested in marriage enrichment are encouraged to contact the Diocese of Phoenix regarding Marriage Encounter and similar programs.
Because Desert Days are limited to single-day retreats, we do not offer overnight accommodations for lay visitors. For out-of-town guests, the closest hotel facilities are located in Buckeye, Arizona, approximately a forty-minute drive from the Monastery.
Facilities and Amenities
Because of our rural location and the limitations of our guest facilities, Desert Days are best suited for individuals and small groups of up to twenty people and cannot accommodate bus groups. Private vehicles and carpools are the preferred means of transportation.
Holy Infant Room
Accommodates up to ten guests and features comfortable seating, a mini refrigerator, and coffee maker. Guests are welcome to bring a packed lunch. Complimentary coffee, tea, and water are provided.
Public Chapel
Open for private prayer and Eucharistic Adoration. Guests are also invited to attend daily Mass and silently follow along as the Sisters chant the Divine Office.
Outdoor Spaces
Guests are welcome to use our outdoor picnic area, which accommodates up to twenty people, as well as the shaded Chapel portico, furnished with benches and chairs.
Scheduling
Although Desert Days are available year-round, we strongly encourage visits between October and May. Summer temperatures in the Sonoran Desert can be exceptionally hot, and guests should prepare accordingly.
Desert Days may be scheduled on any day of the week, with the exception of Thursdays and Sundays.
Standard retreat hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. When your reservation is confirmed, we will notify you of any adjustments to these hours.
Reservations
To request a date, please complete our online reservation form. Guests of all ages are welcome. Those under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or adult chaperone. While there is no fee for the use of our facilities, donations to support the Monastery are gratefully accepted.