About Viriditas Byways
Welcome to Viriditas Byways! Retreat from the noise, demands, and distractions of everyday life and step into a sacred journey to deepen your faith and revive your soul. Return nourished by the Lord and inspired by the beauty of creation, the wisdom of St. Hildegard of Bingen, the adventurous spirit of St. John Paul II, and your fellow sisters in Christ.
What is ‘Viriditas' and Why ‘Byways'?
Viriditas — the “greening power” of God — comes from the writings of St. Hildegard. She writes of the life-giving energy in nature: where the soul is nurtured, healed, and refreshed. In each retreat, we encounter this creative power of God, finding renewal in Creation.
Byways are paths less traveled: a road that leads to something extraordinary and meaningful, often hidden in nature’s quiet corners. A byway is a “side road” or “secondary route.” It is not a diversion, but a deliberate and scenic path into deeper connection with God, our faith, and each other.
Our Mission
At Viriditas Byways, our mission is simple: to provide women with a sacred space to disconnect from the noise of the world and reconnect with God through nature, prayer, and sisterhood. We believe that the wilderness — whether a mountain summit, a quiet stream, or a forest trail — offers an ideal environment for encountering God’s presence and experience spiritual renewal.
Each of our retreats is crafted to guide you into a deeper relationship with God, challenge you physically and spiritually, and allow you to form lasting bonds with fellow Catholic women who share the same journey.
Why Choose Viriditas Byways?
Our retreats are designed for women seeking more than just a getaway. They are a chance to grow spiritually, find peace, and step into the adventure of a lifetime. We blend physical challenge, spiritual reflection, and authentic community into every retreat experience. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, every retreat is tailored to meet you where you are.
Join Us on the Journey
Every woman deserves the opportunity to experience the transformative power of nature and prayer. At Viriditas Byways, we offer a safe, welcoming, and enriching environment where you can step into a deeper adventure with God.
If you're ready to leave the ordinary behind and step into the extraordinary, we invite you to join us on this sacred byway.
Meet the Founder
Cassady Giefer
Hi friends! I’m Cassady Giefer — founder of Viriditas Byways and co-host of Vitae: Seeking Holistic Holiness.
I grew up as an Air Force kid, which means adventure was part of my life from the beginning. Moving gave me countless opportunities to travel, hike, and camp in incredible places — and along the way, I fell in love with the way God speaks through His creation.
I went on to Benedictine College, where I studied Strength & Conditioning and Evangelization & Catechesis. While there, I discipled other women and led small groups, mentoring women in their faith journeys — an experience that helped deepen my passion for building strong, faith-filled communities.
The idea for Viriditas Byways grew from a simple desire: to create spaces where women can step away from the busyness of life and reconnect with God through prayer, nature, and sisterhood. Inspired by St. Hildegard of Bingen’s beautiful concept of viriditas and by St. John Paul II’s tradition of leading young people into the mountains to encounter Christ through adventure, conversation, and quiet reflection.
When I’m not leading retreats or recording podcasts, you can usually find me out on with my dog Pippin (named after my favorite hobbit from The Lord of the Rings), baking sourdough bread, playing boardgames and sports with friends and family, or curled up with a good book… or three.
I’m passionate about living simply, walking closely with Christ, and helping women find restoration and joy in both the wilderness and everyday life.
I’m excited to walk the byways with you!
Meet the Team
Sydney Crnkovich
Joseph Crnkovich
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