What is a Men’s Emmaus Retreat?

During our retreat weekends, men just like you, some Catholic, some Christian, some of other religions, some with no faith at all gather to hear men testify to what God has done in their lives. They do not preach. All in attendance are asked to just listen to their life-stories and to ultimately find answers and to make decisions for yourself… How can I make meaningful changes in my life?  Can God help? Does God even exist? Does God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit have a place in my life?

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Do I have to be Christian or Catholic to attend?

No, you do not need to be a Catholic or even Christian to attend.  Some in attendance are just looking to reboot their faith life. Others are reaching for answers, may be lukewarm or have fallen away from their faith. Still others may be overwhelmed with significant long term or sudden challenges. Over the years, many men – Catholics, non-Catholics, non-church goers, even those who profess no faith in God at all –have attended this retreat and for all it has proven to be a rewarding and life-changing spiritual experience.

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What’s going to happen? Will I be forced to do anything?

The Martina Spiritual Renewal Center offers a quiet, peaceful setting away from the everyday pressures of life. Throughout the weekend, you’re welcome to simply sit back, relax, and take it all in. Nothing will ever be forced—you won’t be asked to share or do anything that makes you uncomfortable. Instead, you’ll hear men openly share their personal stories of life and faith. At the heart of it all is a shared desire to seek answers and grow in understanding.

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Will anyone try to convert me?

The men who attend Emmaus are ordinary men who come from all walks of life and all faith backgrounds.

Some men will undoubtedly express a very strong faith in God, but no one is there to preach or to attempt to convert you to any particular way of religious thinking. To get the most out of the weekend, all you need to do is listen and observe with an open mind and an open heart.

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Are meals provided?

Everything for the weekend is taken care of! You’ll enjoy snacks and a light meal on Friday evening, plus three meals and plenty of snacks on both Saturday and Sunday. If you have any dietary needs, health restrictions, or special requests, please let us know—we’re happy to accommodate just about anything..

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How much does it cost?

The all-inclusive cost for the weekend is $245 per person. This covers your private room, all meals from Friday through Sunday, snacks, beverages, and any materials provided.  Please know that cost is never a barrier to attending. Emmaus is a non-profit ministry, and if you are experiencing financial hardship, we can work with you to defer or even waive payment.

 

When to arrive and what to bring?

Please arrive at 6 p.m. on Friday evening.   Bring comfortable clothing and personal items for a two-night stay. While some men dress business casual, most wear jeans, sweats, or whatever they might wear on a typical evening around home.  You will be given a private room and bedding; separate showers are available.

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How to get to Martina Spiritual Renewal Center?

Martina Spiritual Renewal Center is located just a few minutes north of downtown Pittsburgh

The address is 5244 Clarwin Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15229

Click on "Directions" on the map for gps directions.