Divine Retreat Center Chalakudy

Located amidst the picturesque landscape of Muringoor in Chalakudy, Kerala is the world's largest Catholic retreat center. Divine Retreat Center, a part of the Roman Catholic Charismatic Renewal, originally started in 'Potta', a tiny village about 45 km from Cochin - a Kerala coastal town - with 4 Basilicas around it. Started by Fr. Mathew Naickomparampil, a priest from the Vincentian Congregation in 1977, the center has grown to attract millions over the years. Other Vincentian priests like Fr. George Panackal VC and Fr. Augustine Vallooran VC ably minister in the DRC.

Not restricted to Catholic Christians alone, the Divine Center is open to non-Christians as well as other Christians. The participants from diverse background have a sole purpose - that of connecting and strengthening individual relationship with God. It is indeed a twin treat, visual treat and spiritual getaway that beckon millions of people every year to the Divine Retreat Center, now in Muringoor, Chalakudy.

Spiritual renewal at Muringoor Chalakudy

The word 'retreat' in its etymological meaning signifies a withdrawal. And, the Catholic Encyclopedia strongly recommends spiritual retreats. It is meant to take a break from the routine of life and sincerely seek spiritual guidance.

The Divine Retreat format is aimed at spiritual, psychological, physical and emotional well-being of the participants. Everyday and every element of the retreat make this attainable.

• The retreat begins with an introduction.
  
  
• Followed by Sacrament of confession (2 days)
  
  
• Day of Repentance (confession of sins) (1 day)
  
  
• Day of Fast and sessions of inner healing (1 day)
  
  
• Renewal of sacramental vows (1 day)
  
  

Features of the Divine Mercy Retreat

In prayer, we engage in a profound encounter with the divine—a moment where the boundless love of God unfolds. Here, God chooses to communicate through His Word and extends His transformative touch, ushering in healing and restoration through the sacred Sacraments.
This sacred communion with the divine leads to a profound inner healing—a holistic restoration of the mind, body, and spirit, fostering reconciliation in relationships and with our own past. However, this return to the divine is not an isolated occurrence; rather, it initiates a journey of profound healing.
Initially, this journey liberates us from the shackles of our past missteps, breaking the chains of addiction and setting our spirits free. Subsequently, we become vessels of peace, fostering unity within our families and communities. Finally, this transformative experience unveils our unique purpose and calling in life, empowering us to radiate the healing grace we've received to all whom we encounter in the world.

The retreat experience offers a time for reflection and peace as it opens avenues for enhancing spirituality and also ushers in positive and everlasting effects in life. Driven by an intense desire to connect with God, one should take off time, head to the retreat center, soak in the silence, feel the spiritual atmosphere and allow the soul to experience closeness to God. As the retreat draws to a close, the week-long spiritual experience prepares the participant to return to responsibilities of life with a fresh perspective, greater discernment and revitalized energy.

Three important factors contribute and influence a true spiritual endeavor.

• Specific time set aside to fully involve with no interruptions.
  
  
• A safe, quiet place to pray, introspect or reflect within.
  
  
• A spiritual guide.
  

The Divine retreat center in Muringoor Chalakudy supports thereby deepening the desire for developing life of prayer and relationship with God. Muringoor Chalakudy retreat center satisfies those looking for a place where peace and tranquility fill the air, a kind of environment and atmosphere that energizes and inspires to connect with Almighty through the Holy Spirit.

Program - The Divine Retreat Schedules

There are two campuses in Potta Ashram, one for retreat in English and the other in Malayalam. Retreats in other languages like Konkani, Kannada, Tamil, Hindi and Telugu are also held simultaneously every week.

The weekly English retreats start at 10.00 am every Sunday and ends on Friday at 2.00 p.m. Retreats for children and bible nursery for tiny tots are also held every week. Besides the weekly English retreat there are special retreats.

Charges for participants

The retreat fee includes cost towards accommodation and meals provided to the participants during the period.

Cost per adult: Rs.525/- in a Dormitory sharing type

Please note that due to limited availability of separate rooms, it’s advisable to book in advance by contacting them via phone at 8860646764, 9968541296, or 0129-2981924 (available from 9 am to 9 pm) or via email at divineashram@gmail.com. When packing for your retreat, remember to bring your own bedsheet, pillow cover, and a Bible.

Facilities at the Divine Retreat Centre

Besides comfortable and appropriate clothing required for a spiritual retreat, astute participants may like to carry a Bible, notebook, pen, torch, two bed spreads and a Rosary.

The facilities at the center include:

• Food (Vegetarian/Non Vegetarian)
  
  
• Rooms (Only for sponsors)
  
  
• Dormitories (Bunk beds)
  
  
• Laundry service
  
  
• Travel reservation counter
  
  
• Dispensary/Pharmacy
  
  
• Ambulance service
  
  
• Hair-cutting Salon
  
  
• Book/Cassette Store
  
  
• Religious articles' store
  
  
• Library
  
  
• Refreshment/General stores
  
  
• Readymade garment stores
  
  
• Restaurant
  
  
• Taxi bookings
  
  
• Telephone booth
  
  
• Doctor on duty
  
  
• Two/Four-wheeler parking
  
  

How to reach Muringoor

Muringoor is a small village in Chalakudy Taluk in Trichur district in Kerala. It is right on the banks of the river named Chalakudy. Located along the National Highway 47, between Cochin and Thrissur, reaching Chalakudy isn't difficult. It is well connected by Air, Train and Bus services.

By Train: Reach nearby railway stations like Koratti Angadi Railway Station, Divine Nagar Ha Railway Station, Chalakudi Railway Station, Karukkutty Railway Station.

By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport. Distance from the airport is around 22 kms and just 30 minutes drive.

By Road: National Highway 47 passes along the town that connects Cochin and Thrissur. Chalakudy has a KSRTC and private bus stand in the town only.