Pacem in Terris

Pacem in Terris Hermitage Retreat Center is a sanctuary where people, following Jesus' example of solitude and prayer, can be alone with God and return to the world bearing His peace.

A hermitage is a holy dwelling place, a simple but comfortable prayer cabin that enables those on retreat from the burdens of everyday life to be more fully attentive to the Presence of God.

Pacem’s 19 hermitages are nestled carefully into the woods amidst the beauty of the natural environment to ensure the quiet and solitude of each hermit guest on retreat. In addition, Pacem offers three hermitage rooms inside the lower level of Our Lady of Pacem that have access to electricity and running water. Those are designed for guests with mobility issues or who need access to electricity.

Pacem in Terris is a hermitage sanctuary and is a response to God’s call to “Create an environment where my people can come and be alone with me.”

The hermitages are nestled in the midst of the natural beauty of forest, prairie and a wildlife lake. Away from the struggles and influences of a secular society, the hermit/guest enters into the freedom of a “desert-like” environment, following Christ’s example where “he would often go off to someplace where he could be alone to pray.”

This dedicated silence and simplicity makes it possible for each hermit to enter into an intimate union with God. In that intimacy, God heals, nourishes, guides and transforms lives.