The Saskatchewan Colonies were established in 1978 to provide a place where writers could work free from distractions. The colonies were soon expanded to include visual artists. Not only is the uninterrupted working time invaluable, but conversation after working hours and at mealtimes also provides a stimulating exchange of ideas. Individual retreats make the program more flexible in response to the needs of writers and artists.

The colonies and individual retreats are not teaching situations, but places where practicing writers and artists are expected to work independently.

Colonies are offered for two weeks in the winter and a total of eight weeks in the summer. Writers and artists may apply for a minimum of one week and a maximum of four weeks each calendar year. Because of the different facilities and environments at our two locations, individuals may prefer one working situation to the other. Silent working hours are in place between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Colonists' first and last days are Fridays at St. Peter's and Wednesdays at Christopher Lake. Normally, up to eight participants per week in the summer and twelve in the winter can be accommodated at the St. Peter's colony; up to twenty-five participants per week can be accommodated at the Christopher Lake colony.

Once again, individual retreats are being offered almost year-round at St.Peter's Abbey. These retreats allow individuals to choose a  period of time to work on their own. Individual retreats are limited to Saskatchewan residents and to one week per person annually. It is possible to apply for a shorter period; in that case, the weekly fee will be prorated. No more than three individuals can be accommodated at one time.