Capuchin Retreat celebrates 50 years with open house
Capuchin Retreat, 62460 Mt. Vernon Road, is marking the 50th anniversary of the dedication of the retreat center. A family picnic-style open house is planned for Sunday, July 15, 1-5p.
The ‘rain or shine’ open house will include a blessing of the retreat house and rededication of the cornerstone by retired Detroit Auxiliary Bishop Thomas Gumbleton. A light picnic-style lunch will follow. Tours, games and activities for children will also take place.
Since its inception in 1968, Capuchin Retreat has been a place of prayer and reflection rooted in the spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi.
Capuchin Retreat director, Friar Tom Zelinski explains, “Capuchin Retreat has seen many updates in its 50 years, but the need to provide a place of peace and quiet reflection has been a constant. Over those many years, thousands have experienced the beauty and serenity of our Capuchin Retreat. We invite everyone to join us the afternoon of July 15. We hope those who have come for retreats will join us as well as those who have never experienced Capuchin Retreat. We will be offering tours of our spiritual center and of our 95 acres, complete with 22 walking trails.”
History of Capuchin Retreat
In the 1950's, Capuchin Friar Lawrence Merten offered retreats at a home that had been donated to the Capuchins. These retreats became so popular that the home soon became too small to handle all who wished to attend.
In 1965, Michigan native and Capuchin retreatant, Art Zaske of Mt. Vernon, provided a 95-acre plot of land for purchase, giving Capuchin Friar Simon Hesse the challenge of raising the necessary funds to build a retreat house on the beautiful, rural property surrounded by the Stony Creek Metropark.
“A more perfect spot for a retreat center is difficult to imagine,” Fr. Tom continues. “We are grateful for the forethought and planning of those who came before us.”
Capuchin Retreat offers weekend retreats, days of reflection, private and directed retreats to individuals of all faiths. The 47 rooms offer private bathrooms. The beautiful, heavily-wooded site is easily accessible from Detroit and neighboring communities.
Capuchin Retreat offers programs to renew peace of mind. www.CapRetreat.org
Capuchin Retreat is a Capuchin ministry and is part of the Capuchin Province of St. Joseph which is headquartered in Detroit and has ministries worldwide.
