The Open Door Retreat (ODR) is based on the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius
of Loyola and was designed in 1980 by two sisters of the Cenacle Community.
An ODR is a wonderful way of giving space for reflection ‘in daily life’. Reflection
on one’s relationship with and response to God, to circumstances, to ourselves and
to others. It involves a one and a half to two-hour weekly session for nine weeks. Sessions are experiential in
nature and include music, art, poetry, reflection, and sharing (from the leaders) on their personal experience of prayer and life. Some sharing from
participants is gradually hoped for—to the extent that each feels comfortable.
Importantly though, ODR sessions are listening not discussion spaces.
Attending each session is really important (unless absolutely unavoidable), and
between sessions a daily commitment of about 15 minutes of quiet
time / reflection / prayer will be what makes the retreat fruitful. A variety of materials
is offered to help with this.
The first session is introductory and aims to help potential participants get an
authentic feel for what the retreat will be like. During the days that follow, they’ll
each reflect on whether the ODR is right for them at the time.