"Be still and know."
— Psalm 46:10The West Virginia Institute for Spirituality (WVIS) is dedicated to providing space and opportunities for deepening mindfulness, prayer practice, interior peace, and for integrating moral and ethical values.
WVIS is rooted and growing in the light of God’s love.
The WVIS Retreat House is located in Charleston, West Virginia. Retreatants have the opportunity to step away from their busy lives into the safe (Covid protocols remain in place) and nurturing atmosphere of both the Retreat House and if desired, the Hermitage. While here, you can relax and spend time in silence and be companioned on your spiritual journey with dedicated Spiritual Directors.
Can’t get away? Let WVIS and our dedicated spiritual directors journey with you either in person (see our list of Associate Spiritual Directors to find a spiritual director near you) or via Zoom.
Satellite Locations
The mission of WVIS is fueled by the charism of spiritual direction. Individuals called to be associate ministry directors serve as satellites of WVIS in a relationship of mutual support with the mission of WVIS at their center.
Offerings & Information
Spiritual Direction
Spiritual directors journey with individuals as they discern the invitations of the Holy Spirit.
Certified Supervisors
Supervisors provide a safe space for spiritual directors to reflect on their practice.
Programs
WVIS offers a variety of programs (many of which include CEU credits) aligned with our mission.
Training
Training programs include spiritual direction, supervision, and the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises.
Retreats
WVIS offers weekend retreats and individual silent Ignatian directed retreats.
Resources
WVIS resources for ongoing spiritual growth and prayerful meditation.
News
The Pause that Refreshes Your Soul
Dr. Shannon Lenet, spiritual director and one of WVIS Contemplative Prayer leaders shares, "this title, inspired by the Coca Cola ad campaign is a perfect description for the WVIS Contemplative Prayer Community, which meets weeknights from 7 p.m. to 7:20 p.m., Monday...
Sacred Grief – Journeying through the Five Gates of Grief
Grief is a natural and normal emotion that is the result of us opening ourselves up to being vulnerable in an impermanent world. It is caused by the end or change in a familiar pattern in our lives and our attachment to the familiar. The loss of anyone (or thing) we...
On the road to Almost Heaven Retreat
I dread the drive north. So close to Christmas, I will encounter challenging road conditions, and although former Buffalonians never lose their mad snow driving skills, I do not want to put those skills to the test my last weekend of spiritual direction training. Two...
Stay in touch
Thank you for visiting our site. If you would like to be notified of programs and opportunities available through the West Virginia Institute for Spirituality (WVIS) email list, please use the Contact Form below.
WVIS programs are available both in-person and on Zoom. Please know that we respect your Inbox so unless you request additional specific information, you will receive no more than two emails from us each month and you can opt-out at any time.
WVIS is a 501 (c)(3).
Contact
1601 Virginia Street East
Charleston, West Virginia 25311
304.345.0926 (main)
304.345.8206 (fax)
Information contained on this site is for the sole use of members of The West Virginia Institute for Spirituality community and may not be used for commercial purposes. All content, unless otherwise specified, is the property of The West Virginia Institute for Spirituality and may only be used with permission. © 2025 The West Virginia Institute for Spirituality.