Rates

Individual Stays and Retreats

The standard Guest House rate for an individual retreat or private stay is $115 per night for a regular room with shared amenities or $130 for a private room with an ensuite. A detailed fee schedule is available by contacting the Guest House office.

Rates include meals. Prices are subject to change.

Please enquire with the Guest House manager for additional information on rates, including discounts

The Guest House requires at least one week’s notice for individual stays. Private rooms are limited. We encourage you to book early to avoid disappointment.

Group Stays and Retreats

For day or overnight group retreats, the Guest House requires at least six weeks of notice. Please contact the Guest House manager for rates and availability. 

Refund and Cancellation Policy

1) Quiet Days and Retreats

30 days before event:    Full refund
15 days before event:    50% refund
7 days before event:      25% refund

2) Courses

Full refund before 2nd class.

Please note: SSJD reserves the right to cancel retreats/quiet days without a minimum of 10 registrants.

Full refunds will be made in the event of a cancellation due to low enrolment, at the Convent’s discretion.

Please note, deposits are non-transferrable.

General FAQs

Who can stay at the convent Guest House?

All are welcome at St. John’s Convent and Guest House, regardless of gender identity, ability, or religious affiliation.

The Guest House is designed for those seeking spiritual renewal, restful contemplation, and deeper connection with God. In this way it is different from a hotel, hostel, or other form of temporary lodging. It is a place of companionable peace and quiet with opportunities for private time away or participation in various retreats and programs offered in the “Food for the Soul” program.

Teenagers over the age of 16 are welcome when accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

Can I book an individual retreat?

Yes! We welcome both groups and individual guests. Spiritual direction is available. Please contact the Guest House Manager to inquire about an individual retreat.

Basic rates are posted above.

Do you offer retreats that I can attend?

Yes! Please view our events calendar.

What should I bring to the Guest House?

Please bring indoor shoes or slippers during your stay. We kindly ask that you do not wear outdoor shoes inside the Guest House or Convent. Some knitted slippers are available for guests.

All linens are supplied. Most people make their own beds upon arrival, though the Guest House team is available to help those who are not able to do so.

The Convent is a scent free environment. We kindly ask that you refrain from using fragrances or scented products during your stay.

Can I attend chapel services?

Yes! Guests are encouraged to attend any or all of the chapel services in the convent during their stay. St. John’s Convent follows a traditional Benedictine monastic order for services, three times a day, in addition to the daily Eucharist. with prayer and other services taking place at least four times daily.

The chapel schedule is posted outside of the chapel entrance and available in all guest rooms.

What can I expect during mealtimes?

Good homecooked meals! If you have special dietary requirements, it is essential to let the Guest House Manager know when you book a personal or group retreat.

Breakfast, dinner, and supper are served in the Refectory and are usually taken in silence. Mealtimes and menus are posted on a weekly basis outside of the refectory, and meal schedules can be found in all Guest House rooms.

Mealtimes are taken in silence unless otherwise stated. 

Pantries are available throughout the Guest House with light refreshments including coffee and biscuits. St. Peter’s on the main floor has light breakfast and snack items available for guests. 

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Vegetarian alternatives are provided at all meals. Gluten-free meals can be provided for those with celiac, but cross-contamination may occur. 

Please inform the Guest House at the time of booking if you have food allergies, are vegan, or require further accommodations for mealtimes. In the event we are unable to suitably accommodate any dietary restrictions, guests may need to bring their own food. Fridges are available in the Guest House pantries on both main and second levels.

What is a 'spirit of silence'?

Following monastic tradition, guests and sisters try to embrace the stillness of God in the convent and on the grounds. Shared public areas in the Guest House are designated for quiet conversation. Mealtimes are taken in silence unless otherwise stated. We ask guests to refrain from the use of cellphones in the bedroom areas.

What is the masking policy for the Guest House?

To ensure that sisters and staff are safe while continuing to serve, we ask that you do not stay at Guest House if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

  • Rash
  • Cough
  • Runny/stuffy nose
  • Fever
  • Sore throat
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Conjunctivitis

In the event of illness, you may cancel up to the date of arrival. Please let us know as soon as possible if you require a cancellation due to illness. 

Due to vulnerability of community you will be asked to leave if you 

We ask that day visitors to the Convent or Guest House wear a mask if experiencing any of the above symptoms. 

Does the Guest House have any restrictions on what I can bring?

Smoking and drinking on-site are prohibited. For group retreats, arrangements may be made in advance for retreats if alcohol is to be consumed. 

The consumption of nicotine, cannabis, and drugs is strictly prohibited.

Please do not bring drugs, weapons, or fire hazards into the Guest House or onto Convent property.

contact

To book or for questions not answered on this page, please contact the Guest House Manager.

By email: guesthouse@ssjd.ca

By phone: 416-226-2201 ext. 305