"Be Still And Know That I Am God"
This is the theme at Jesus Our Hope Hermitage that is nestled in the Jefferson County
mountain land southwest of metro Denver. At an elevation of 6,800 feet, it is situated
on 62 acres of rugged, wooded land that is dedicated to God. The Hermitage provides
sanctuary not only for people of all faiths but also for a wonderful selection of
birds and animals.
The climate is typical for the Colorado Mountains with mild temperatures spring
through fall and more than enough snow during the winter. The main house named "Francis
House" is spacious and is supplied with a full kitchen, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms,
and a chapel.
The Francis House is a dwelling that includes all the comforts of a home, without
the distractions and schedules of televisions and cell phones. In the spirit of
Saint Francis of Assisi, this house is surrounded by tall pines and aspens that
allow one to reach out to the heavens and touch the ear of Our Lord. A prayer garden
and oratory are just a couple of the quiet settings that will lead one to spiritual
contemplation and meditation.
In addition to overnight stays at the facility, Francis House is an ideal location
for one day spiritual renewals for church groups, parish staffs, and small organizations
that want to meet God in an uninterrupted setting. This house can sleep up to eight
people and can hold a meeting for a group of 20 people comfortably.
Some retreatants come to the Hermitage for time alone; others come in groups for
prayer, reflection and discernment. Whether you walk the trails, sit quietly in
the gazebo, or find a spot yet undiscovered, the solitude and loveliness of nature
is a constant reminder of the love God has for this earth and for each of us.
History
The dream of Father Roger was to provide a safe place, away from the distractions
of day-to-day life, where people could find the peace that he knew God wanted for
all His children. Beginning with the "Upper Land", Father Roger and his friends
built poustinias (prayer huts). Neighboring property was added to the hermitage
grounds and in 1992, began welcoming guests to Jesus Our Hope Hermitage.
Francis House, which was acquired with the "Lower Land", became the primary retreat
house, with the poutinias being used during the summer months. In 1997, an additional
40 acres with residence, to be christened Clare House, became a part of the hermitage
property. The Brothers of St. John purchased the upper Land during the summer of
2002 and have worked diligently to complete the dome house that was started by Father
Roger.
This ministry and facilities are available to all of God's children regardless of
denomination. In true ecumenism, we welcome all who come seeking a place of peace,
a refuge for reflection and prayer.