Jesuit Retreat Center in Atlanta Honored for 50 Years of Ministry

The Jesuit Retreat Center at Ignatius House in Atlanta has now been a staple for Georgians and others for 50 years, providing sacred space for reflection, prayer and spiritual direction.

“Ignatius Retreat House has been serving the community of Georgia as well as people from other states as a center for spiritual growth and a place to relax and enjoy peace and quiet,” said Maria Cressler, executive director of the retreat center, to a crowd gathered in the center’s chapel at the anniversary Mass in December. “Catholics, other Christians and those of other faiths come here to renew or deepen their relationship with God and others.”

The anniversary celebration was attended by long-time friends and newcomers to Ignatius House. Atlanta Auxiliary Bishop Luis Zarama served as the main celebrant for the Mass, which was concelebrated by Jesuits currently serving as retreat directors and the New Orleans Province provincial, Jesuit Father Mark Lewis.

In his homily, Bishop Zarama recalled his first encounters with Jesuits during his time growing up in Colombia, South America. He remembers the Jesuit retreat house located just a few blocks from his childhood home and told the crowd it was there that he first felt a call to the priesthood.

“The Jesuit retreat house was the first place the Lord opened up my heart to the possibility of being a priest,” the bishop said. “The reason why I am here in Atlanta is because of the Jesuits.” [The Georgia Bulletin]