Catholic Transcript Online

WEST HARTFORD – Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center will sponsor a daytime retreat focusing on St. Teresa of Avila on Jan. 27 that will be repeated that evening. "A Contemplative in Action: the Extraordinary Gift of St. Teresa of Avila," will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and again from 6-9 p.m. by Sister Sally Hodgdon, superior general of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Chambery.

St. Teresa, a 16th century mystic who founded the Discalced Carmelites, described her personal prayer as a conversation with Je-sus, similar to conversations one might have with a friend. The retreat will explore how her form of contemplative or mystical prayer continues to be viable. The offering of $30 includes lunch or dinner. Registration may be done online at www.holyfamilyretetreat.org or by sending the offering to HFPRC, 303 Tunxis Road, West Hartford, CT 06107. Information also is available online or by calling (860) 521-0440.