Getting to Know Flannery O’Connor and Her Sacramental Art

with Father Damian Ference

Registration Coming Soon

Friday, September 10 - Sunday, September 12, 2027

The Retreat at Heritage

Discover how the fiction of Flannery O’Connor invites us to recognize God’s grace in unexpected places. Join Father Damian Ference at Heritage for a retreat exploring O’Connor’s life, Catholic faith, and distinctive approach to storytelling. Her ancestors are buried in Locust Grove Cemetery, offering a meaningful connection between her family’s story and the Catholic heritage of this sacred place.

Beginning with an opening talk on Friday evening, the retreat continues Saturday with two morning talks and an afternoon presentation. Together, we’ll explore how O’Connor’s vivid characters and surprising stories reveal the mystery of God at work in a broken world—and how her sacramental vision can deepen our awareness of His presence in everyday life.

Saturday evening features a screening of WILDCAT, followed by a discussion connecting the film with the retreat’s themes.

Whether you’re a longtime reader or encountering O’Connor for the first time, come with curiosity and enjoy time for conversation, prayer, and quiet reflection in Heritage’s peaceful setting.

Fr. Damian Ference Bio

Father Damian Ference is a priest of the Diocese of Cleveland, where he serves as Vicar for Evangelization. Ordained in 2003, he holds a doctorate in philosophy from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome. A writer and retreat leader, he explores the intersection of faith, literature, and culture. He is the author of Understanding the Hillbilly Thomist: The Philosophical Foundations of Flannery O’Connor’s Narrative Art and a lifetime member of the Flannery O’Connor Society.

Prepare for this retreat by reading the following short stories by Flannery O'Connor:

Good Man Is Hard to Find, The Life Your Save May Be Your Own, The River, Good Country People, The Enduring Chill, Parker’s Back, Everything That Rises Must Converge, and Revelation

‍

Hide

Your Itinerary

Friday, April 30

3:00 PM Check-In

6:00 PM Dinner

7:00 PM Session 1

8:00 PM Reception

9:00 PM Quiet Hours

Saturday, May 1

9:00am Mass

10:00am Session 2

11:30am Lunch

1:30pm Session 3

2:30pm Free Time

3:00pm Confessions

6:00pm Dinner

7:00pm Screening of Wildcat - 2023 biographical drama on Flannery O'Connor directed by Ethan Hawke

9:00pm Quiet Hours

‍

Sunday, May 2

11:00am Check-out

11:30am Mass at the Church of the Purification

‍

Included In Your Retreat

Talks with retreat leader, Father Daman Ference

All meals

Lodging for 2 Nights

Registration Cost

Registration Coming Soon

Getting to Know Flannery O’Connor and Her Sacramental Art

Our Past Retreat Experiences

5 Stars in all areas, especially hospitality. The staff is incredible and the grounds are peaceful and prayerful means to walk a little closer with God. When you leave you’re already thinking, when can I get back...

Mary O.

What an experience! I loved spending time at Heritage. It’s a beautiful, peaceful environment. What an opportunity to leave the over-stressful life. I had a chance to grow closer to God. Plan to return!

Maria S.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the retreat price?

The retreat includes Dr. Hunt's program and talks, all meals (Friday dinner through Sunday breakfast), lodging, and full access to the Heritage grounds.

What are the check-in and check-out times?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM on Friday, and check-out is at 11:00 AM on Sunday.

Who is leading the retreat?

The retreat is led by Dr. John Bergsma.

Is this retreat open to all ages?

Yes, the program is open to guests 18 years and older.

Are accessible accommodations available?

ADA-compliant cottages are available. Please call 706-417-8305 to inquire about specific options.

Is there an opportunity for personal time and reflection?

Yes — the schedule includes free time for prayer, walks around the retreat grounds and personal reflection time.