Lead a Small Group
Our goal is to equip you (yes, YOU) to lead a Christ in Our Neighborhood small group as easily as possible. This program thrives when groups are hosted in a neighborhood home, rather than in a room at the parish. You don’t need any extra training or special knowledge. All you need is a few friends, […]
Initiatives & Resources
The Diocesan Commission fosters communion by leading initiatives of prayer, catechesis, dialogue, and collaboration throughout the diocese.
In Search of Unity
The Church in Phoenix is called to vibrantly live out the identity and mission that it has received from Christ: to be “a sign and instrument of communion with God and of unity among all men” (CCC 775).
Donate to Merciful Heart Hermitage
While we do not charge a fee for the use of our facilities we do depend on freewill offerings from retreatants for our continued operation. Gifts from benefactors are also vital in helping us carry out our mission.
Days of Desert Solitude Request
Catholic priests who feel called to come for a Desert Solitude Retreat may fill out our Retreat Request Form.
Travel Information for Merciful Heart Hermitage
Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX). From there, one may rent a car or call a taxi or ride sharing service such as Uber or Lyft.
Hiking
There are some wonderful hiking trails that can be accessed right off the Merciful Heart Hermitage property.
Mother of Mercy Chapel
The recently renovated Mother of Mercy Chapel is available throughout the day or night for personal prayer, Mass, and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
History
Merciful Heart Hermitage, founded in 1984 as Our Lady of Solitude, offers priests spiritual retreats in Black Canyon City. Led by Fr. Eugene Mary, a diocesan hermit, it fosters prayer and renewal in the Carmelite tradition.
Accommodations
Forty miles north of Phoenix, surrounded by mountains and Sonoran desert, the Merciful Heart Hermitage: A House of Prayer for Priests is situated on a desert mesa overlooking Black Canyon City.