Parakletos Retreat
An ecumenical Christian retreat ministry serving residents of Mary’s Village and Mary’s Haven in San Bernardino, California — created by spiritual leaders from Kairos, a prison Deacon/Chaplain, and a Cursillo Spiritual Director/Deacon.
Serving Mary’s Village and Mary’s Haven in San Bernardino.
The Parakletos Retreat is an ecumenical Christian retreat held onsite at Mary’s Village and Mary’s Haven — two transitional living programs operated by Mary’s Mercy Center in San Bernardino, California.
Mary’s Village
A 12–24 month transitional living program for homeless men, providing a therapeutic community to help residents develop the personal, social, and emotional skills needed to rebuild their lives.
Mary’s Haven
A 12–24 month transitional living program for displaced women with young children, offering safe and stable housing for mothers and families facing homelessness, domestic violence, or addiction.
Supporting residents with the Holy Spirit.
The Parakletos Retreat aims to benefit residents by supporting them with the Holy Spirit — the Paraclete — helping men and women reintegrate as responsible citizens and Christians. The retreat also strengthens volunteers through team formation focused on self-reflection, honesty, sharing, and community.
A personal relationship with Christ at the center.
The retreat includes talks by lay people and clergy, personal testimonies, meditations, prayers, music, and community activities — all designed to foster a personal relationship with Christ and encourage transformation. Residents confront their challenges and history, with Christ presented as the complete solution, though only each resident can undertake that journey themselves.
We act under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, responding to Jesus’ call in Matthew 25:36 to care for those in need. Ongoing reunions and group meetings after the retreat help participants stay connected, accountable, and authentic — central to Christian life and lasting personal change.
Talks & Testimonies
Lay people and clergy share talks, testimonies, and meditations to foster a personal relationship with Christ.
Prayer & Music
Prayer and music create a sacred space where residents can open themselves to the movement of the Holy Spirit.
Ongoing Reunions
Monthly group meetings following the retreat help participants stay connected, accountable, and authentic.
A 3-day introductory course on Christianity — held onsite in San Bernardino.
A trained team of laypeople, mostly from Cursillo and Kairos, along with Catholic Deacons from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and the Diocese of San Bernardino, leads a 3-day introductory course in Christianity, faith, reflection, and compassion — held directly at Mary’s Village or Mary’s Haven in San Bernardino. The weekend concludes with a Catholic Mass on Sunday.
Ongoing support for lasting change.
Residents receive ongoing support through monthly reunions to help them process their lives and situations. It is vital to follow through and remain available to offer guidance and encouragement.
Feel called to serve?
If you feel called to volunteer with the Parakletos Retreat team, we invite you to join our community of volunteers serving San Bernardino.
Register to Serve