Tips for First-Timers

White House Retreat is a Jesuit Retreat House based on The Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius.

Your retreat is a silent retreat. Each retreatant makes himself totally available to the Lord and refrains from all conversation with fellow retreatants (except during the opening and closing meals and the optional Fellowship Period following dinner in the evening).

The directions to White House are on the map on your confirmation. When you get to the main entrance of White House follow these directions:

• Upon arrival you may drop off your luggage and passengers at the registration area of Snyder Hall. (see map)
• Park your car in the lot below. For those unable to walk up the hill there will be someone to provide a ride.
• Register in Snyder Hall. You will receive your room assignment, daily schedule, book of prayers, etc.
• Take your luggage to your room.
• The Jesuits give First Timers a description of the facilities after the first meal to make you feel at home. They will answer any questions you might have.
• Conferences, Scripture services and Mass are held in the chapel.
• Meals are served in Monaghan Hall Dining Room.
• Leader #1 is in Room 200 of Snyder Hall, Leader #2 is in Room 133 of Snyder Hall and Leader #3 is in Room 309 of Monaghan Hall. If you need something for your room or are having a problem, please contact one of these Leaders. They will be happy to help you with any of your needs.
• Please, no electronic devices, i.e., cell phones, radios, or anything that might distract you or a fellow retreatant. In the event of an emergency a telephone is available.
• White House provides towels, bed linens and soap. With a very few exceptions, each person has a private room with lavatory/shower. There is a Bible in each room.
• You'll want to be prepared for outside weather -- walking between buildings as well as around the grounds. Bring walking shoes. Also bring your rosary and a pen/pencil to take notes.
• Items you may have forgotten (comb, toothpaste, etc.) are available for purchase in the bookstore.
• Dress is generally casual (no tank tops or short shorts).
• The wake-up bell rings 30 minutes before morning prayer. There are no clocks in the rooms, so you may wish to bring an alarm clock for your own personal use.
• Please be prompt to all conferences and meals.