Mount St. Francis Retreat Centre

About The Facility

Mount St. Francis Retreat, located on the outskirts of Cochrane overlooking the Big Hill Creek Valley, is a Christian retreat centre. For those wishing time apart in intimacy with God, the Mount offers moments of silence within the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Grounds

Situated on almost 500 acres, the retreat centre provides occasion for retreatants to enjoy the beauty of the foothills, with a view overlooking the Rocky Mountains. Pathways and the Stations of the Cross allow opportunities for reflection and celebration of God’s handiwork.

Accommodations

Simple, single rooms are characteristic of the Mount. Rooms contain a single bed, desk, and sink. Bedding and towels are supplied.

St. Elizabeth Place

Last year, thanks to a number of generous donors, the former Sisters’ Convent was renovated. It has been renamed “Saint Elizabeth Place” in recognition of the Sisters of St. Elizabeth’s 50 years of dedicated service to Mount St. Francis.

This stand-alone building provides six additional bedrooms and a large seminar room with kitchenette for up to twelve people. It has already been used for overflow weekends (yes, we are often filled to capacity) and for small seminar groups from parish councils, school boards, business groups, etc.

For Reservation Information call 403-932-2012.

Friar Paul Surette Hermitage

The hermitage, built in the 1970s, is back in use. This rustic log cabin, initiated during Friar Paul’s time, is a one room space with bed, table and chair, and a wood burning stove. Part of the Franciscan tradition, the hermitage is an invitation to persons wishing a modern “desert experience.” Not for everyone, the hermitage is for the hardy soul who seeks the ultimate retreating experience.

For Reservation Information call 403-932-2012.

Handicap Access

Mount St. Francis is equipped with wheelchair access and washroom facilities to aid special needs. If special assistance is required, we encourage the accompaniment of a caregiver to offer essential care during your stay.

Meals and Dietary Concerns

An outstanding kitchen staff prepares all meals at the Mount, providing an experience of deliciously wholesome dining. As much as possible, every attempt is made to accommodate special dietary concerns. Prior to your retreat, we urge you contact Mary to discuss special dietary requirements 403-932-2012.

Library

Mount St. Francis Retreat has a comfortable reading room and non-lending library.

Bookstore

Limited selections of materials are available for purchase at the bookstore, including books, CDs, cards, cups, pens and rosaries.

Non-Smoking Policy

Mount St. Francis is a smoke-free facility, although smoking is permitted outside.

Team Availability

Time permitting, retreat team members are available by appointment for counselling, spiritual direction, 5th step and prayer ministry.

Costs

The generosity of so many people over the past 61 years has enabled The Mount to continue its ministry. During a regular retreat you are given a blank envelope for your contribution. Our costs are $175 for weekend retreats, $90 for an individual 24 hour retreat, and $25 for twilight or day retreat (includes one meal). An income tax receipt is issued for donations above our costs. Donations allow us to help others who cannot afford to pay the full amount. Inability to pay has never kept anyone from attending a retreat. Information on estate planning and deferral gifting is available upon request.

Location Map (see inset)