Attending a Catholic retreat is a powerful opportunity for spiritual renewal and growth. Whether it’s your first time or you’ve attended retreats before, being well-prepared can help you make the most of the experience. Here’s a checklist to guide you through the essential preparations:

Catholic Retreat Checklist v2

Catholic Retreat Checklist

1. Registration & Confirmation

  • Confirm Registration: Double-check that you’ve registered for the retreat.
  • Verify Payments: Make sure any required fees are paid.
  • Check Schedule: Review the retreat schedule to know what to expect.
  • Confirm Transportation: Arrange your transportation details.
  • Review Pre-Retreat Materials: Make sure you’ve received all the necessary information.

2. Prayerful Preparation

  • Set Prayer Time: Spend time in prayer before the retreat begins.
  • Reflect on Intentions: Think about the spiritual goals you’d like to focus on.
  • Meditate on Scripture: Choose a Bible passage to reflect on during the retreat.
  • Request Prayers: Ask for prayers from others as you prepare.
  • Prepare Your Heart: Open yourself to receiving God’s grace during the retreat.

3. Spiritual Tools

  • Bring Bible or Devotional: Have your Bible or a devotional book for personal reflection.
  • Pack Rosary Beads: Include your rosary for daily prayers.
  • Take Prayer Journal: Bring a journal to write down your thoughts and reflections.
  • Bring Spiritual Reading: Consider packing a book that deepens your faith.
  • Prepare Saint’s Prayers: Include prayers from your favorite saints.

4. Comfortable Clothing & Essentials

  • Pack Modest Clothing: Choose appropriate attire for prayer and activities.
  • Bring Layers for Weather: Pack extra layers for varying weather conditions.
  • Comfortable Walking Shoes: Bring shoes suitable for walking and outdoor activities.
  • Pack Sleepwear: Don’t forget cozy sleepwear for relaxation.
  • Include Hat & Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun if outdoors.
  • Bring Rain Gear: Be prepared for unexpected weather.

5. Personal Items

  • Toiletries Kit: Pack your essential toiletries.
  • Bring Medications: Bring any medications you’ll need during the retreat.
  • Personal Hygiene Items: Remember personal hygiene items like tissues and hand sanitizer.
  • Flashlight or Headlamp: Essential for evening walks or activities.
  • Refillable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the retreat.
  • Carry a Small Bag: Keep a small bag for daily essentials.
  • Optional Camera: Capture memories (if allowed).

6. Health & Safety

  • Medical Forms: Make sure you’ve completed any required medical forms.
  • Health Insurance Card: Bring your insurance card for emergencies.
  • Emergency Contacts: Keep emergency contact information handy.
  • Bring Allergy Meds: Pack any allergy or emergency medications.
  • Notify Dietary Restrictions: Inform the retreat leaders if you have dietary restrictions.
  • Extra Glasses or Contacts: Bring extra vision supplies.

7. Donations & Offerings

  • Prepare Financial Contribution: Have any required donations ready.
  • Bring Offering Items: If requested, bring items like food or materials.
  • Donation for Retreat Center: Consider contributing to the retreat center.
  • Thank-You Card for Leaders: Show appreciation with a thoughtful note.

8. Quiet Time & Relaxation

  • Pack Blanket or Cushion: Bring comfort items for quiet reflection.
  • Bring Prayer Shawl: Create a personal prayer space with a shawl.
  • Optional Musical Instrument: If part of the retreat, bring an instrument.
  • Earplugs or Headphones: Helpful for those needing extra quiet.
  • Personal Comfort Items: Bring anything that helps you relax and focus.

9. Mindset & Spiritual Readiness

  • Disconnect from Electronics: Leave distractions behind to focus fully on your retreat.
  • Prepare Mentally & Spiritually: Prepare for growth and spiritual transformation.
  • Be Open to New Experiences: Embrace new teachings and reflections.
  • Prepare for Grace & Healing: Open your heart to receive God’s grace.

10. Questions or Concerns

  • List Questions for Leaders: Write down any questions or concerns for the retreat leaders.
  • Identify Spiritual Struggles: Reflect on any personal struggles you want to address.
  • Set Personal Retreat Goals: Think about the spiritual growth you wish to achieve.
  • Discuss Past Experiences: If needed, share past experiences with the retreat leaders.
  • Request Prayer for Others: Don’t forget to ask for prayers for others in need.