Monastic Experience Weekend

Come Take a closer look at cistercian monastic life

Monastic Experience Weekends are for single, Catholic women ages 20-40 who want to learn more about the life of contemplative nuns and are discerning a call to religious life. It is an opportunity to:

Pray, learn, Rest & Reflect

During Monastic Experience Weekend, participants are able to:

There will also be:

Friday, April 10 – Sunday, April 12, 2026

Friday, October 2 – Sunday, October 4, 2026

Past Participant Testimonials

“I wanted to express my gratitude for the Monastic Experience Weekend at Santa Rita Abbey. It was a deeply enriching and enlightening experience, immersing myself in prayer, reflection, and the rhythm of monastic life. I am truly thankful for the warm hospitality and support from the community. Please extend my thanks to everyone involved. I cherish the memories from this retreat as I continue to discern my path. Many blessings!” (October 2025)

- Josephine

“I had a beautiful Monastic Experience Weekend and recommend Catholic women to come with an open heart and welcome our heavenly Father’s voice because the Sisters at Santa Rita Abbey are the example of Mary in putting God first and submitting to God’s will, a model of faith we should follow. Experiencing the liturgy of the hours with the sister's was a fruitful experience that I will always carry close to my heart and continue applying to my daily life.” (October 2025)

- Susan

“If you think God is calling you to something greater, do not hesitate to give this Monastic Experience Weekend a try. No matter where you are in life, you will not regret it. Nothing is impossible for God. It was an amazing experience for me that I will always cherish.” (April 2025)

- Angela

Still have questions?

Email Sr. Bonitas at [email protected]. Be sure to note that you’re inquiring about a Monastic Experience Weekend in the subject line of your message.