ROCK ISLAND — Sister Phyllis McMurray, OSB, prioress of St. Mary Monastery, will present a day of reflection, “Practicing Gratitude: The Spirituality of Everyday Thanksgiving,” on Thursday, Nov. 19, at Benet House Retreat Center.

Starting at 9 a.m. and running through 3 p.m., the program is designed to help participants “cultivate gratitude as a state of heart and a way of life through prayer and reflection.”

The Benedictines will also offer an Advent day of prayer, “They Shall Name Him Emmanuel: God With Us,” on Thursday, Dec. 10, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The facilitator will be Sister Catherine Cleary, OSB, a spiritual and retreat director based at Benet House.

This program invites people to spend the day reflecting on the Child “who comes anew to bring us gifts of light, peace, hope and love. Prepare for Christmas with reflection, quiet and discussion on the birth of Christ.”

The cost for each day is $30, which includes lunch. For more information or to reserve a place at one of these programs, call (309) 283-2108 or send e-mail to retreats@smmsisters.org.

Benet House is located on the grounds of St. Mary Monastery, 2200 88th Avenue West.