OCT 24TH-26TH | Hidden Acres Retreat Center

36 spots | $38 registration | all accommodations included

To request a scholarship, simply email Alexandros at apandazis@ocf.net and he will send you a coupon code that will waive your registration fee.

In the Scriptures, the Greek word “Eremos” (ἔρημος) refers to the “solitary” / “wilderness” places to which the prophets & saints often retreated in order to encounter the Lord (1 Kingdoms 19:4; Exodus 19:2-3, Matthew 3:3).

In the New Testament, Christ Himself often retreats to the “eremos” to pray, fast, and reconnect with His Father (Luke 5:16, Mark 1:35).

In the midst of the busy pressures of the world, we look to emulate these Scriptural examples in our annual two-day/two-night fall EREMOS Retreat, where we put aside our electronic devices and engage in 48 hours of prayer, stillness, and outdoor activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

The retreat takes place at Hidden Acres Retreat Center in Kauffman, TX and includes a visit to nearby Nativity of Our Lord Monastery in Kemp for Divine Liturgy on Sunday morning.

We’ll be carpooling from College Station to the retreat center. If you have a car and space to drive others, please indicate so in the registration form. If not, no worries! We’ll give you a ride.

Additionally, you’re welcome to drive yourself to the retreat if that’s best for you.

Friday and Saturday of the retreat are made up of edifying talks and discussions, sports, boating, a (silent) monastic style meal, a bonfire, outdoor prayer services, and more.

Sunday morning begins with Divine Liturgy at the nearby Nativity of Our Lord Monastery followed by lunch with the nuns and silent time on the monastery grounds before departing for College Station.

Throughout the weekend, participants will divide into groups that will share the responsibility of preparing meals for the group.

Carpools will depart from College Station on Friday between 2-3:30pm and arrive back on Sunday around 6:30pm.

The retreat will include ample free time that you will have the freedom to use as you wish.

If needed, you can request the temporary use of your phone/laptop and access to a building with Wifi during these periods for homework.

A packing list will be provided a few days before the retreat. General items will include bedding/sleeping bag, a pillow, toiletries (& towel), and any games, activities, instruments, and spiritual items you think would contribute to an enjoyable retreat.

When we first arrive at the retreat center, each participant will turn in any electronic devices they have (phone, smart watch, laptop, etc), allowing us all to detach ourselves from the fast paced digital world we find ourselves in every day.

During the allotted periods of free time scattered throughout the weekend, participants will be able to check-out their electronic devices for homework/work use ONLY in the building on campus where wifi is accessible.

What if I really need my phone/computer?

If you feel like you’ll need access to your electronic devices beyond the several hours that they will be available for check-out, reach out to Alexandros at apandazis@ocf.net before registering

Nope! Non-Orthodox Christians are welcome to attend in any capacity as long as you are open to enjoying the weekend in the Christian spirit.

Carpool accommodations cannot be guaranteed for participants that want to arrive late/leave early from the retreat. If you are comfortable arranging your own transportation to the retreat AND you let us know about your plans ahead of time, you are welcome to arrive/depart as your schedule requires.