Summer and Winter Retreats in the Saskatchewan Prairies
St. Peter’s Abbey is a Benedictine monastery set in a serene rural location a short tree-lined walk from the village of Muenster. St. Peter’s College is affiliated with the University of Saskatchewan and offers first- and second-year courses. More information about St. Peter's can be found on their website https://stpetersabbey.ca/wp/
St. Peter’s has a pleasant, timeless atmosphere that promotes both work and relaxation. During the summer, retreat participants are accommodated in private rooms in Scholastica Residence, a former convent. The residence contains a small, fully equipped kitchen and a separate lounge. The residence has five bathrooms with showers and/or bathtubs. Writers are allocated the largest rooms since these also serve as a working area. Visual artists have private sleeping accommodations, plus a separate work space. Please note that Scholastica is not wheelchair accessible; navigating some stairs is required.
Participants of the winter Writer and Artist Retreat are housed in the Abbey Guest wing in private rooms equipped with a single bed, dresser, desk with chair, sink and mirror. Bathrooms (showers/toilets) are shared. A spacious kitchen and separate lounge are also available. Because this guest wing sometimes houses other individuals, silent working hours cannot be guaranteed. Participants for the Facilitated Retreat may be housed in Lower Severin Hall, which offers private rooms, which include a single bed, desk with chair and ensuite bathroom (toilet, sink, shower). as well as a spacious lounge, kitchen facilities and meeting area.
In all residences, bedding, towels and pillows are provided, as are all meals (breakfast, lunch and supper) in the cafeteria. Retreatants are served shared buffet meals in the dining hall based on a set menu. The kitchen will be informed of any food allergies or sensitivities, but please note that a completely gluten free or dairy free diet cannot be guaranteed.
A reference library specifically designed for writers and visual artists is set up in the lounge of the Abbey Guest wing. Participants also have full use of the extensive college library. Internet access for research and e-mail is easily available through the college’s library, and wireless internet is also available in the guest rooms.
On-site recreation facilities include a large state-of-the-art fitness complex with a gym for badminton and racquetball, and a hockey arena/skating rink. Free laundry facilities are available to the participants during both retreats.
Not all spaces at St. Peter's Abbey are wheelchair accessible; navigating stairs may be required. Applicants with mobility or accessibility needs, or severe food allergies or restrictions, are encouraged to speak to the Guild about how we can help make the retreat an enjoyable experience for you; some needs may not be able to be accommodated and may affect your acceptance or accommodation.
Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the retreat, but carpooling may be arranged by communicating with fellow retreatants. There are no public transportation options to Muenster currently available. If you are joining us from out-of-province, Saskatoon is the nearest airport.
All SWG retreats are staffed by a Guild coordinator, who can assist you to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable retreat.
More information will be shared with retreatants after their acceptance, or you can speak to the Guild Program Manager at programs@skwriter.com if you have questions or concerns about your retreat experience.
