Awaken Your Heart: A Contemplative Retreat with Msgr. Don

Join Msgr. Don Fischer this fall for a transformative four-day retreat at The Southwest Sanctuary at The Chi Center, 20 miles south of Santa Fe, New Mexico. He chose this stunning 150-acre retreat setting because of its breathtaking vistas, radiant sunsets, and the vast stillness of the night sky. With its 50-foot round kiva, two labyrinths, outdoor fireplaces, fountains, a pond with a waterfall, and paths for reflection and hiking, it is the perfect location to slow down, listen deeply, and reconnect with the presence of God within.

Over the course of six thoughtfully guided sessions, Msgr. Don Fischer will lead you into a deeper exploration of three essential questions at the heart of your spiritual journey: Who is God? Who are we? How are we connected? These themes will unfold over six sessions, allowing time for reflection, dialogue, and meditation. With his signature warmth, depth, and clarity, Msgr. Don will invite you to move beyond surface understanding and encounter these questions as living doorways into the mystery of God’s presence within and among us.

In addition to his sessions, Msgr. Don will be joined by his longtime friend and mentor, Dr. Robert Sardello—a guiding light in his own spiritual journey—and by Priscilla Coblentz, acclaimed opera singer and co-founder of Harmonic Alignment, whose presence will bring a unique and deeply resonant dimension to the retreat experience.

Dr. Sardello is a beloved teacher and author who has spent decades helping others explore the inner life. He co-founded the School of Spiritual Psychology and has taught around the world. As a former professor and dean at the University of Dallas, his work blends the depth of Jungian and archetypal psychology with the spiritual science of Rudolf Steiner, offering a path of transformation rooted in presence, silence, and heartfulness.

Priscilla Coblentz, a renowned classically trained opera singer, knows firsthand the power and impact that sound vibrations have on the human spirit. She is a leader in the new frontier of energy medicine and vibrational sound therapy and is excited to bring her gifts to you on this retreat.

Whether deep along your spiritual path or just beginning to listen for its call, this retreat offers a sacred space to rest, reflect, and awaken your soul. This is a rare opportunity to step away from the noise of daily life and continue your spiritual journey inward.

DATES: Thursday, November 6 – Monday, November 10, 2025

LOCATION: The Southwest Sanctuary at The Chi Center, 40 Camino Vista Clara, Galisteo, NM 87540

ACCOMMODATIONS: Lodging is available across five distinct buildings, each offering its own charm and atmosphere. The Pueblo House features 10 premium double-occupancy rooms, each with a private ensuite bathroom—ideal for those seeking both comfort and privacy. The other four buildings offer a variety of single and double rooms with shared bathroom facilities, creating a peaceful and welcoming environment for all guests. Every space is thoughtfully designed to support rest, reflection, and renewal throughout your retreat experience. Visit the website for more information.

PRICING: All packages include four nights of accommodations, all meals, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and the full retreat program. The retreat begins on Thursday afternoon, November 6, and concludes midday on Monday, November 10.

  • Pueblo House Suite – $3,500 per person*
       Premium suite with ensuite bathroom (double occupancy required)

  • Double Room – $2,700 per person*
       King bed or two twin beds (double occupancy required) with shared bathroom

  • Single Room – $2,900 per person*
       Twin bed with shared bathroom

A 50% deposit is due at registration, and the balance is due by August 31, 2025.

CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY: Cancellations made more than 60 days before the retreat will receive a full refund. If you cancel within 60 days of the retreat start date, your deposit is non-refundable. Pastoral Reflections Institute (PRI) has only had to cancel two retreats in its history. In the unlikely event that PRI must cancel this retreat, you can transfer your full payment to a future retreat or request a full refund of your registration fee.

Please note: PRI is not responsible for any additional costs you may incur in preparation for the retreat, such as airfare, accommodations, or lost wages. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance once your reservation is confirmed, as unexpected events can happen.

TRANSPORTATION: The retreat fee does not include transportation to The Chi Center. However, PRI will offer an optional shuttle service from the Albuquerque and Santa Fe airports for an additional fee. Details regarding shuttle times and pricing will be provided soon.

Spaces are limited. Registration opens May 23, 2025.

*A portion of the cost supports the ministry of Pastoral Reflections Institute and is tax-deductible