PREACHED RETREATS

There are two preached retreats this year:

1. Franciscan Turtle Retreat:  Lessons Learned From Brother Turtle?
May 29 – June 5, 2013
Jude Michael Krill, OFM Conv.

Turtles are excellent teachers.  In almost every culture, turtles carry rich symbolism and meaning.  Whether they live in grasslands, forests, swamps, or deserts, when a turtle gets flipped over, as we sometimes do, it will use its strong neck and legs to right itself, and if it cannot, the turtle will accept the help of a friend to turn its life back around.  turtles intuitively know when to “retreat” within their shell.  Afterwards, when they have taken time for self-care, they come out more clear, stable and wise.  It is I:  be not afraid.(Mk 6:50) and then, Jesus went up into the boat, and the wind ceased.  It’s when we feel most separated from God that God is teaching us the most.  The wilderness is part of the landscape of faith, and every bit as essential as the mountaintop in our turtle lives.  Come and learn from brother turtle.

2. Transforming Our Image of God and Ourselves
June 15-22, 2013
Fr. Joseph Breighner

We are created in the image and likeness of God and called to participate in the life of God becoming partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4).  Incarnation lies at the heart of the human vocation as Anthanasius’ classic statement recalls:  He, indeed, assumed humanity that we might become God.  Too often humanity becomes an excuse for not becoming more like God.  Humanity is not an impediment to divinity.  Our lack of awareness is the real problem.  This retreat invites us to become aware of the transforming power and presence of God within us, allowing God to work through us.