A Prayerful Retreat & Sacred Art Workshop

July 19–25, 2026

at Mount Carmel Spirituality Centre

Enter into a unique week of prayer, contemplation, and sacred art through this immersive Icon-Painting Retreat led by master iconographer Symeon van Donkelaar.

More than simply an art workshop, this retreat is designed as a prayerful spiritual experience rooted in the Christian tradition of iconography. Participants will spend the week contemplating Jesus Christ through prayer, silence, liturgy, and the sacred practice of writing an icon.

Working directly with Symeon van Donkelaar, retreatants will:

• Learn and practice praying with icons
• Receive instruction in the traditional techniques of icon painting
• Create their own icon of Jesus Christ in the Conestoga style
• Experience a rhythm of prayer, Mass, community, and quiet reflection

Whether you are an experienced artist or a beginner, this retreat offers a welcoming and spiritually enriching environment where the process of icon writing becomes a form of prayer.

All materials needed for the icon will be provided, including:

• Gessoed wooden panel
• Pigments
• Gold leaf
• Brushes and painting tools

Daily Retreat Schedule

Overnight Retreatants

7:00–8:00 AM – Breakfast for Overnight Guests
9:00 AM – Holy Mass
Following Mass – Icon Workshop Session
12:00 PM – Lunch
Afternoon Workshop
4:00 PM – Day Retreatants Depart
5:30 PM – Dinner for Overnight Guests

The evenings provide additional opportunity for quiet prayer, reflection, fellowship, and enjoying the peaceful grounds of Mount Carmel.

Retreat Details

• Dates: July 19–25, 2026
• Space Limited: 14 participants
• Registration Deadline: May 31, 2026

Pricing

Day Retreat Option:
$920
Includes the full retreat program and daily lunch.

Overnight Retreat Option:
$1,600
Includes accommodations, breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Mount Carmel Spirituality Centre.

About Conestoga Icons

Icons painted in the Conestoga style are known for their simplicity, stillness, and contemplative beauty. Founded by Symeon van Donkelaar, the Conestoga tradition presents a sacred vision of Christ and the saints that is deeply prayerful and spiritually accessible.

For more information, visit:
www.conestogaicons.com

About Mount Carmel Spirituality Centre

Mount Carmel Spirituality Centre offers a peaceful retreat setting just outside Edmonton, Alberta. Surrounded by natural beauty, the Centre provides walking paths, quiet spaces for reflection, and comfortable accommodations for personal renewal and spiritual retreat.

Guest rooms feature private washrooms, and the Centre can accommodate up to 137 guests.

Address:
1225 Township Road 535
Parkland County, AB T7Y 0H5

Registration & Information

For registration or further information, please contact:

Anne Jacobs
Email: events@mountcarmeledmonton.ca
Phone: 587-463-3376