The Value of Making Time To Retreat!

Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes
Franciscan Monastery - Kennebunk, Maine

Feast of St. Anthony - June 13-15, 2008

I'd like to begin this writing with a beautiful quote found in my journal of Everyday Blessings...

"As quiet water reflects the sky, a quiet heart reflects the peace of God."

Isn't it sometimes an unbelievable struggle to get away from the rush of routines? I'd say its more of a battle because the evil one will do whatever he can to set up roadblocks to our experiencing any kind of peace that the Lord has to offer us in this beautiful world He created. As a matter of fact, once you even entertain the idea of going on a spiritual retreat, you will find many problems popping up quite unexpectedly! This is where you need to fight the good fight. Pray whole heartedly to confirm that God is calling you, and if so...just go!
When we make time for a retreat we are not just making time for ourselves as most of us think, but we are rather allowing time for God to work in our lives. God speaks to us in the silence of our hearts. He calls to us through scripture ; "Come to Me all you who are burdened and I will give you rest". Once you are on retreat, you will be amazed at the clarity of your thoughts, the depth of your reflections and the renewed hope in your heart and spirit.
Women's Weekend Retreat

Held June 13-15, 2008

It was quite the blessing to be able to run a Women's Weekend Retreat recently held on the Feast of St. Anthony, the miracle worker! Our destination was Kennebunkport, Maine - a lovely ocean resort area which houses The Franciscan Monestary and St. Anthony's Shrine. Oh God sure is good indeed! The focus of this women's retreat was to refresh and renew...and that we did! Each day began & ended with prayer and the gift of holy scripture graced each moment. Upon arrival, each woman was escorted to their private room where they found a welcome gift wrapped in ribbons with dove chocolates delicately placed upon their pillows Also included was a scrolled scripture reading meant for personal reflection & discernment during the retreat. Each person was excited to find that their personal scripture spoke loudly to thier present situations in life...but then again, we know that's how the Holy Spirit works in our lives.

Our retreat opened with dinner by the sea where baked stuffed sole was served filled with crabmeat stuffing! This was followed by fettucini alfredo, a delightful salad with hot crusty bread and a scrumptious dessert. Yum, yum! After dinner, we attended the Franciscan Monastery's Feast Celebration of St. Anthony with rosary, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction. Needless to say...the peace of Christ filled the air and soaked our spirits

On Saturday morning we rose early for a beautiful Mass and returned to the Retreat House for a Victorian Rosary Breakfast. Why is it called a Victorian Breakfast you ask? The answer is because of the time and care taken in preparation of food and making those in attendance feel extra special as we all deserve but seem to forget. Those of you who've attended before can guess what we enjoyed for our meal...Ham & Cheese Strata, French Toast Souffle, Sausage, Hash Browns, Fresh Fruit Salad and delicious muffins! This and the Rosary prepared us for our busiest day of discovering the beautiful gifts all around us provided by our Creator!

First a full tour of the Monastery grounds, indoor chapels, outdoor chapels, history, and the breathtaking stroll through the flowered gardens of the monastery which leads to the peaceful harbor on the ocean. A sure sight for sore and tired eyes!

Next was a box lunch and a nature walk on one of the most beautiful beaches in Maine. After a short rest and some free time, we visited the famous Dock Square filled with shops and various sights. We enjoyed a late dinner, (Chicken Paramgiana with Penne Pasta) and continued on with our spiritual exercises of surrender, trust and faith in God who leads us to the way of peace, love and joy in our lives.

Sunday morning greeted us with more exuberant sunshine and a day full of God's blessings! After a nice breakfast, peaceful mass and final sharing, our retreat was coming to a close. As the women tell me, it was tough to pack up and leave at noon but they assured me that they were leaving full of peace and a renewed sense of hope in their daily lives.

Thanks be to God, His angels & saints for a refreshing retreat! Saint Anthony is the Saint of Miracles who whispers our petitions into the sweet infant ears of Jesus. He was with us and heard our prayers....so expect a miracle!

Hope you can join us next time! Until then...angels all around you!

In Faith, Hope & Love,

Marge