Our Hermitage
The Hermitage Story

Years ago, when Fr. Ellis Zimmer was on the staff of Monte Alverno Retreat and Spirituality Center, he experienced the calling to a deeper contemplative prayer life.  He eventually discerned the need for the atmosphere a hermitage provided.  And he set about to get one built.

Now that Fr. Ellis is no longer with us, Monte Alverno, especially with the prodding of Br. John Kocian and the workmanship of Jim Ritchie and volunteer Tom Oudenhoven, set about to repair and refurbish the hermitage building.  It is now ready for use.
   
         

Monte Alverno Retreat & Spirituality Center is now providing the experience of hermitage for people to step away from their busy lives, and retreat into silence and aloneness.

The hermitage experience is more than spending time in the hermitage building.  The hermitage experience is an extended time of silence, prayer, and seclusion.

 
 
On the grounds of the Center is a small studio-cottage situated on the side of the bluff amidst nature.  The hermitage is secure and is furnished for independent short-term living with a small refrigerator, microwave, with a half bath.

The sitting area has a rocking chair, lamp, desk and chair.  The sleeping area has a twin bed, nightstand, lamp, and wardrobe.
  
The hermitage is intended for those who seek the God within and who are comfortable in the quiet and aloneness this type of retreat setting offers.  It is available year-round although not handicapped accessible.  To keep the spirit of solitude in focus, only one person occupies the hermitage at any given time.
 
Reservations are required. However, registrations are not accepted more than six months in advance.  Length of stay can be as short as one day (24 hour period) or as long as 6 days.  If one desires to remain longer, the additional time is renegotiated.  The cost is $60 per day.  A $30 non-refundable deposit is requested at the time reservations are made.
       

Check in is before 4 pm.  Bed linens and towels are provided.  You may bring your own microwavable food and snacks or meals can be taken in the Monte Alverno Retreat & Spirituality Center dining room.

1.  Eucharistic liturgy is available at the friary at Monte Alverno Retreat & Spirituality Center.
2.  Smoking is not permitted and pets are not allowed.
3.  Bring any personal items you may need such as a CD player and CDs.
4.  Cell phones, blackberries, computers and iPods are discouraged.
5.  The completion of a questionnaire is required.  To read and/or print this questionnaire, click here.

For further information or to make a reservation, please call Monte Alverno Retreat & Spirituality Center at 920-733-8526 on Mondays through Fridays between 8 am and 3:30 pm or email montealverno@juno.com with hermitage in the subject line or write Hermitage, Monte Alverno Retreat & Spirituality Center, 1000 N Ballard Rd, Appleton WI 54911.
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