Retreat into Sacred Stillness
Just outside Stockton, Illinois, among the rolling hills of the Mississippi Valley, Christ in the Wilderness (CITW) offers hermitage retreats for solitude, reflection, and renewal in nature.
Our Mission
The mission of Christ in the Wilderness is to provide an environment that is conducive to silence, solitude, prayer, and reflection. While rooted in Christian hospitality, we welcome all who seek rest, stillness, or reconnection—with themselves, with nature, or with something greater.
Why Solitude?
In a world of constant stimulation, CITW invites you to slow down. Here, there are no demands—only sacred quiet, gentle trails, wildlife, and open sky. Retreatants often tell us this is where they finally exhale. They rest. They reflect. They remember what matters.
“Time here offers the chance to ask the deeper questions often buried beneath routine. What do I truly want? What is calling me forward?”
What You Can Do Here
- Read, nap, or journal by candlelight
- Walk wooded paths or prairie trails
- Pray or meditate at your own pace
- Reflect and listen—without interruption
Core Values
A sacred welcome for all seekers
We honor diverse paths and create space for belonging, privacy, and reverence.
Less noise, more presence
Silence, solitude, and nature help us reconnect to what matters most.
Care for land and life
We maintain the natural environment and invite gentle, mindful presence.
Our Story
Founded more than 44 years ago, CITW was built on a simple, enduring idea: taking intentional time away from the noise of everyday life is essential to living a meaningful one. We continue this work today by offering a place of quiet, renewal, and courageous listening.
Begin Your Journey
Christ in the Wilderness is more than a destination. It’s a threshold—a pause, a remembering.
Frequently Asked
How long can I stay?
Most guests book 2–7 nights. Longer retreats may be available seasonally.
Is there Wi‑Fi?
No—by design. Many guests find the digital rest to be part of the gift.
Is it accessible?
We strive to accommodate different needs. Contact us ahead to discuss specifics.
