The Santiago Retreat Center is deeply rooted in its mission to facilitate personal and communal spiritual growth. It aims to enable guests, whether they're attendees of retreats, conferences, and events, or employees, volunteers, and benefactors, to realize their fullest potential in achieving happiness and a closer relationship with God. This mission encapsulates the center's dedication to fostering environments where individuals can extend God’s love and concern to others in their own communities. Their vision further elaborates on this commitment, aspiring to rejuvenate parish and family life through a diverse array of programs including retreats, marriage encounters, summer and science camps, and a missionary discipleship program, all under the guidance of the Holy Spirit​​.

Situated in a serene wilderness setting on 500 acres in the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains, the Santiago Retreat Center is designed to support both small and large groups with its rustic yet accommodating venue. It features an array of activities and facilities including a swimming pool, hiking trails, a Whiffle Ball field, low ropes, a game room, chapels, picnic areas, and both indoor and outdoor meeting spaces. The center places Jesus Christ at the core of all activities, leading with the natural beauty of God’s creation, supporting Catholic parishes, schools, and ministries, and grounding its work in the Eucharist with celebrations of daily Mass and monthly Adoration​​.

Furthermore, the Santiago Retreat Center is recognized for its efforts to address the spiritual needs of its community, providing a platform for individuals to engage in spiritual retreats aimed at deepening their relationship with God and enhancing their capacity to care for others​​.