Called the retreat house, the facility can accommodate up to 20 people at one time. Many people in the metro Denver area have eagerly awaited the abbey retreats, since the nuns offered retreats at their Boulder location. As a result, weekend bookings at Virginia Dale are hard to come by, with some groups already reserving space for next spring. Weekday openings for individuals are available beginning in November. Sister England said a big draw for retreat clients is being able to pray with the sisters at the abbey.
People also enjoy the beautiful surroundings and the quiet of the place.
The retreat facility is open year-round. At this point, retreat clients plan their own programs and prepare their own food in the retreat house kitchen. The nuns hope to eventually provide both programs and food service for group retreats, but individuals will still be on their own. Retreat participants may pray in the main abbey chapel at any time of day and may also join the abbey community for daily prayers and rituals. Hiking is allowed on the abbey property, and a gift shop is open each afternoon.