Being apart of this parish and leading adult ministry has been an amazing opportunity for me. I’ve been blessed to see people be transformed by God’s love. I’ve witness people receive freedom and healing. I’ve been able to watch people leave retreats on fire for the Lord, and experience a new excitement about their faith. It has been such a blessing and humbling experience to walk this journey of faith with so many adults at our parish! I would like to share with you some short reflections from previous retreat attendees as to how the adult retreats has impacted them.
“I thought the retreat was absolutely amazing! It is so hard to describe an experience that powerful. It was the most amazing, powerful, healing experience that I have ever had. The Lord always shows up in such a powerful way. It is truly an experience that I can't get anywhere else.”
- Karen Bengal
"In attending the parish retreat for the first time, I found a group of people who organize activities within the parish. I felt their love for all members of the parish. They are truly living the two greatest commands of Jesus to love God and neighbor as yourself."
- Bill Armbrustmacher
“I attended my first retreat last Fall and look forward to every upcoming retreat. It’s always a really nice time to get away and spend time with the Lord. We are all so busy that we forget to pause and spend time in fellowship with other members of the parish, spend alone time in prayer or participate in small groups, which is part of what the retreats offer. It’s such a welcoming atmosphere throughout the weekend. It’s not always serious, we actually laugh a lot! I was able to spend time getting to know many people that I would otherwise not have a chance to connect with. I’ve become good friends with several people I have met on retreat. Because of my participation in the retreats, I feel more connected to the parish community and want to go deeper in my faith. I’m no longer afraid to go out on a limb and attend Adoration or the healing services because I know I am becoming closer to Jesus. If I had not taken the leap of faith I did when I was invited on retreat last Fall, I wouldn’t have been able to experience all the wonderful things that the Lord has brought to me. I personally invite you to take the leap and attend the retreat. You will not be sorry you did.”
- Cindy Braun
“What I enjoy most about the retreats is an open atmosphere to actually discuss faith. How often in your daily life do you get that opportunity? The retreats feature many individuals who share their faith journey, "witnessing". It is surprising to hear they share the same challenges that I do. As a bonus, where 2 or 3 are gathered in my name, I am there in your midst. Right from scripture, God himself promises to be present. After about 6 retreats we can safely every attendee has felt His presence.”
- Vern Thelen
"My husband and I decided to attend the retreat after moving to the area only 1 year prior. While we were a little apprehensive about knowing very few people prior to the retreat, everyone was welcoming and open. We not only were able to spend time with God, but He also blessed us with several new friends. We are so glad we went!"
- Kate Davis
“I’ve been on the last 3 retreats and they have been such a stepping stone for my faith, to the point I consider them essential for my spiritual growth. Each retreat brings something new to the table and I’m always amazed with what I take away from them. I have yet to walk away disappointed and I always leave wanting more. I was hooked after the first one and my calendar has been planned around them since! If you’re looking for a great start to take that next step in your faith, these retreats are a definite must!”
-Stephanie Kirvan
Our next adult retreat is September 28-30 at the St. Francis Retreat Center in DeWitt. I want to encourage you pray about coming on the next retreat. I know people have busy schedules, and there is always something we could be doing, but is that where the Lord is calling you to be? These retreats have so much to offer and something I look forward to every year. I’m always getting something new from them and always leave feeling recharged. Registration is available online!
God Bless
Andrea