Cedarbrake setting

Cedarbrake is located on 32 acres of naturally wooded beauty. Numerous paths for trail walking; meditation spots such as the St. Francis fountain and pool, the outdoor Stations of the Cross and the Beatitude Tree; swings, picnic tables, and a gazebo all provide a peaceful setting for retreat and renewal. A large labyrinth is situated directly behind the Conference Center, and Cedarbrake's chapel and library are open during the day for retreatants.

Facility requests 

Please honor all of the Retreat Center's notices and requests.  In particular, please note that smoking is allowed on porches only.  No incense or candles may be burned anywhere, at any time.

Check-in 

Cedarbrake staff will issue your room key in the small registration building opposite the Conference Center as you arrive. After settling into your room, please check in with the CCH retreat staff in the lodge.  At this time you may pay any balance due on your registration fee.

Meditation room

Please remember that the meditation room is a sacred space. Honor the sacred space by...

  1. Stopping for a moment before entering the circle in order to become conscious of the sacredness of the circle.

  2. Removing shoes before entering.

  3. Leaving food and drinks outside.

  4. Entering and exiting only when the door is open. This will ensure that sits are not interrupted.

  5. Please do not wear perfume or aftershave in the meditation room. If during a sit, your neighbor falls asleep and begins to snore, gently wake them up. If you begin to cough during the sit, please silently leave the room.

Kitchen instructions

  1. Place dirty dishes and cups in the bus trays

  2. Write your name on a piece of tape and place it on a cup to be used during the retreat.

  3. At each meal, please check the board in the dining room for changes in schedule and important notes.

Personal needs

  1. There are envelopes, cards and stamps for outgoing mail on the table under the stairway. Place outgoing mail in the basket. Mail will be taken to a mailbox every 2-3 days.

  2. If you need to purchase something from the store, please write the item on an envelope and place your money inside the envelope. Place the envelope in the basket. Staff will be going to the store every 2-3 days.

  3. If you have other personal needs, please see a staff member.

Sharing

On the last night of the retreat, retreatants will participate in a group sharing. This is a very important part of the retreat and it is important to attend this session in order to connect with other retreatants and staff, and to gain closure on the retreat.

Check-out

  1. Please remove sheets from beds and remake the bed as it was when you moved in.  Place the used sheets and any dry towels & washcloths in a pillowcase and leave them by the front door of your room.

  2. Drape any wet towels & washcloths over the chair outside your room.

  3. Bring trash to the main lodge and place it in the large trash cans.