SALT LAKE CITY — Diocesan Administrator Msgr. J. Terrence Fitzgerald announced Dec. 7 that Our Lady of the Mountains Retreat House in Ogden will be closed temporarily. In a letter to pastors, parish administrators, and diocesan leaders, Msgr. Fitzgerald wrote that the Retreat House, which as been without a director since Benedictine Sister Danile Knight, Retreat House director since 1988, was named prioress of Mount Benedict Monastery Aug. 26, 2006. Attempts have been made to hire another director, in fact one was identified and named, but has found it necessary to resign. "For the past two years the Retreat House has apparently seen little use, despite the efforts made by the director, her staff, and volunteers, and by the members of the Retreat House board." Msgr. Fitzgerald wrote. "It seems that the facilities are not considered adequate by those who once made use of them. "After considering various factors, including lack of use, financial realities and the recent resignation of the director, the diocesan consultors advised that we temporarily close the Retreat House. "I think temporary closure is the best course of action at this time," Msgr. Fitzgerald wrote. "In the interim period, study can be given to its future use. It is my intention to find someone to reside on the premises to ensure the safety of the buildings." Our Lady of the Mountains Retreat House was opened and dedicated by Bishop Joseph Lennox Federal in June 1979. A former convent, it was remodeled for retreat use. Accommodations include 16 rooms of 30 beds, a chapel, conference room, and dining room. A staff house was built in 1984. In 1986, a grotto with a statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary was built on the grounds, and outdoor Stations of the Cross were set in by the Knights of Columbus. Our Lady of the Mountains Retreat House has been used for private, directed, and group retreats, including Diocesan Pastoral Council and parish council retreats.
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