About Serra Retreat Center

Under the patronage of Blessed Junípero Serra, the Apostle of California, our Serra Retreat invites you to move forward in your spiritual life, embodying Serra’s famous statement: “Always go forward, never turn back.” This is a Catholic retreat and conference center which provides the space, in a beautiful setting, for peace, serenity and reflection. Located between the mountains and the ocean in Malibu, California, the Franciscan Friars continue the ecumenical tradition begun in 1943 for welcoming group and private retreats, as well as workshops. Serra Retreat provides a superb opportunity for church groups, schools, non-profit and profit organizations, to reflect, plan and set new goals. The Friars and staff invite you to “come apart and rest a while” (Mk 6:13) mindful of the saying: “If you are too busy to make a retreat–you are too busy.”

You are invited to visit the grounds Monday through Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. for personal prayer and relaxation. No reservation is needed.

Weekend visits to the grounds are by appointment only. Please call during the week so we can notify the gatehouse.

To contact Serra Retreat:
(310) 456-6631
310-456-9417 (fax)

 
What is a Spiritual Retreat?

This is a retreat: a time for God–an opportunity to assess your relationship with yourself your God and your neighbor. Away from life’s “busyness,” you have the graced opportunity to ponder the scriptures in silence and perhaps with others. Everyone needs to pause, to ask: Where am I going? What are my values? How do I proceed further in my life with God? Time is our most precious gift: how are I using it, “that we may have life and have it to its fullness (Jn 10:10)?