Sacraments
Transformation through the Eucharist: This evening or day of reflection will follow the Jewish tradition of manna
from the desert to the present day reality of Christ’s sacrifice at the mass. We will examine the
deep invitation of love Christ offers to us each day, and how this holy sacrament can serve as our new Spiritual Manna.
Sacraments of Initiation: This retreat, based on the Diocese of Rochester Confirmation program developed by Carol
Pickel, explores the sacraments of initiation through the symbols of the sacraments. We
will look at the scriptural basis of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist as we pray our way to a deeper understanding of these
sacraments and their symbols in our lives.
Sacred Occasions
The Birth of Christ: Over 2000 years ago, Mary was asked to be the bearer of Christ. In this
Advent evening of reflection, Christ once again invites us to open our hearts to Him. We are encouraged
by the Christmas message to experience the birth of Christ in our own lives.
Advent: Retreats (or Parish Missions) based on the Advent role models: Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth and Zachariah who help us see our
own journey toward the coming of the King.
Lent: Exploring the journey to the Cross.
This Lenten retreat explores the symbols and the liturgies of Holy Week. Through exploration of
scripture and symbols rooted in the Celebration of Palm Sunday, Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Vigil, we will journey
in Faith to a deeper understanding of Christ’s Love for us and His call to us.
Not Ordinary, Extraordinary! We
will explore the richness of “Ordinary” time on our liturgical calendar. We will journey through
Scripture to find Jesus present in the “ordinary” of our lives.
Holy Heroes!! This retreat/
workshop explores Saints and other Holy People in our world as messengers of God’s unfailing Love. We
look to them as guides, where-ever we are on our journey. We will meet St. Catherine of Siena, St.
Teresa of Avila, St. Francis of Assisi, Brother Lawrence, Mother Teresa and more. We can focus on individuals
of your choosing.
Saints
Mysticism for Dummies?? We will explore Saints who are often portrayed as so “deep”
and “distant” that we feel they cannot be modeled. We will look at Catherine of Siena, Theresa
of Avila, John of the Cross and Julian of Norwich as concrete models of intimacy with Christ. We will see
that it was their very simplicity that made them holy.
What’s with the Saints?? We will journey with others to a deeper understanding
of what a saint is, and how we are all called to that same holiness. We will explore myths about Catholic
beliefs in saints and we will talk about the reality of models from medieval to modern-day holy people.
