Eastern Point Retreat House

Shannon Cardinal

I called Father Campbell to ask for his permission to spread my father's ashes on the property. I am not Catholic; so I don't know the rules. My dad was. The Father called me back and without any kindness- no I'm sorry for your loss or any offer of what others who have called him do instead- he said Catholic policy doesn't allow the body to be spread; it must be interred. I can respect that his rules and beliefs are different from mine... But when someone calls with a dead parent looking for help to put that parent at rest, maybe the first response of a religious leader should be one of compassion before you throw the rule book at them. No wonder young people want nothing to do with the church. Also the ban on spreading rather than interring seems like a strange rule to enforce considering all the body parts and blood of multiple saints that the Catholic Church holds as relics- shouldn't the Father and his colleagues start interring those with the saints bodies in that case? Anyway it's a tax free vacation house for Catholics with 32 rooms in the wealthiest part of town. End of a Gated community with a security guard. Stays at the house cost upwards of 3000. Meanwhile in downtown Gloucester there is an overfull homeless shelter struggling to help everyone, and as far as I know the retreat center does little for those folks. Between that and the constant Priest abusing children problem in the church, I would say if you are a true believer find a better place to spend your time and your money- one that actually serves your God and his children. Pretty sure Jesus would flip the tables at this place.

Mambo Vipi

A perfect place to spend in silence and reflection. It is beautiful in unique ways in every season. During the Spring, it comes to life exceptionally, and there are plenty of places to spend outdoors: by the beach, walking the maze, or wandering down the road through the beautiful countryside. You will not regret coming here for retreat.

Thomas Kenny

Wonderfully prayer filled place with outstanding natural beauty.

K

I stayed here twice on an 8 day directed retreat. The place was welcoming and the scenery beautiful. They are currently remodeling and plan to reopen in 2016.