FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Who is Koinonia for? Koinonia
is open to adults 21 and over. Younger adults, 16 to 20, are encouraged
to make a "Teens
Encounter Christ" weekend (TEC). A candidate must be willing
to cooperate. Persons with disabilities are most welcome, but must be
able to handle a moderately demanding schedule. More severely handicapped
individuals may better enjoy a "Handicapped Encounter Christ"
weekend (HEC).
When are Koinonia held?
Koinonia of Springfield, IL is usually scheduled the first weekend of
each month. Please see the Koinonia of Springfield Calendar
for a list of the next scheduled weekends. Occasionally there are also
parishes that hold Koinonia. Check the announcement page for that information.
The program begins on a Friday evening and continues through Sunday
evening. You are required to commit to the entire weekend and not break
community unless there is an emergency.
Where are they held?
Weekends are currently held at Villa Maria Catholic Life Center, 1903
East Lake Drive, Springfield, IL 62707 (see map) which is located on
Lake Springfield. Villa Maria is an impressive home-like setting, ideal
for meditation and reflection. The facility features a large chapel;
dining room; communal living room; conference room; and 22 rooms, each
with two single beds and a private bath.
Is there a cost? Yes.
A weekend is $70. A refundable deposit of at least $10 is requested
with the application. The total fee is expected to be paid in full at
the time of the retreat. The fee includes 6 meals, lodging and all your
retreat materials. Expenses are kept down by the generosity of our members.
Finances should never prevent anyone from attending a weekend; if you
need any help, please call a contact person, who can assist in making
arrangements for you.
What should I bring?
The weekend on the whole is very casual, with only one nice outfit necessary
for the Eucharistic celebration. Other than your personal items, you
need only take a snack and six-pack of soda to share with the others
on the weekend. Once you choose the weekend which works best with your
schedule, the Lay Director will contact you with a letter, describing
in more full detail what you need to bring, and answering other questions
you may have.
What if I am not Catholic?
Although uniquely Catholic in Sacramental and Liturgical celebrations,
it is open to all denominations. A goal of Koinonia is to celebrate
the common foundations and similarities of the various Christian Faiths,
rather than convert non-Catholics to Catholicism.
