The Tree of Life: Esoteric Christianity and the Perennial Mystical Tradition
CCE - Annual Day of Reflection
Saturday, June 6, 2026
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (ET)
The Rt. Rev. Br. Mark D’Alessio
Esoteric Christianity delves into the hidden, mystical dimensions of Christian teachings, emphasizing personal spiritual experience over doctrine. It deeply explores divine wisdom, inner transformation, and powerful, energizing symbols. The Perennial Mystical Tradition explores the fundamental and universal truths of spirituality. It emphasizes direct, personal encounters with the Divine and transcendent experiences, suggesting that at their core, all spiritual paths lead to the same ultimate reality. Together, they offer a profound, unifying spiritual perspective. Fr. Michael expertly guides us through this day of learning and experience.
This program will be offered both in-person and online via Zoom. Information on how to access the program on Zoom will be sent to participants in advance.
This program will include a morning and an afternoon session of Centering Prayer.
Offering: $65, includes lunch
Scholarships are available, please contact Mike Smoolca at cce@holyfamilyretreat.org for more information.
Presenter Profile
Fr. Michael K. Holleran
Fr. Michael K. Holleran is a Catholic priest, Zen Master (Roshi), and former Carthusian monk. He was a Jesuit for five years, then a Carthusian for 22 years in the U.S., France, and England, and a priest of the Archdiocese of New York for 30 years (now retired). He is a member of the White Plum Asanga through his mentor, Fr. Robert Kennedy S.J., and has studied Kabbalah and Arhatic Yoga with Master Choa Kok Sui.
Dietary restrictions? Holy Family is committed to making your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, and to that end, we can accommodate most dietary needs. Please email Ted, our registrar, at tjastrzebski@holyfamilyretreat.org, if you have any dietary restrictions or food allergies, so that we may make preparations in advance of your retreat.