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It was said, by Christ himself, “Where two or more are gathered in My name, there am I with them.” (Matthew 18:20)  In our retreats, and throughout this summer, we have surely felt His presence among us!  After a lively June retreat with every room accounted for, we gathered for our 5th Diocesan Wide Supper and Substance in a whole new, hip and happening venue!  Although the heavens opened up with buckets of rain, couples matching up to about 230 or more people paddled their way out to Rock n’ Bowl to mingle, bowl, dance to the tunes of Peace of Cake band, and listen to an inspiring, humorous and convicting presentation from Saints Coach Joe Lombardi and lovely wife, Molly.   You could feel the enthusiasm of couples enjoying one another on their date night out, having fellowship with other couples,  kicking back in their jeans and bowling/dancing shoes, and just letting loose!  Equally contagious was the desire set on our hearts to move in our faith after hearing the “never give up” “go-getter” words from the Lombardis along with  their hunger for truth and commitment to Catholicism in their hearts for their family and their marriage.  Needless to say the night was a success and we look forward to repeating a night like this in the future.

    In the spirit of Matthew 18:20, we’d like to continue to gather and feel His presence among us in new ways, and broaden the horizon of our ministry set out to bring Christ into our marriages, our families and our lives.  Remember that Jesus didn’t  merely offer His presence when two were gathered, but He left the invitation for more.  This fall, we invite families to gather with us while we team up with Dumb Ox Productions’ teen ministry for a NEW adventure for retreats entitled, “A Family That Prays”. This will be a powerful weekend getaway designed to enrich marriages, faith and family.  Spouses will be able to grow closer in their sacrament while their teens explore a deeper understanding and encounter with God.  After each group of teens and married couples have been grouped in their respective retreats on Saturday,  families return together on Sunday for a memorable family experience led by Archbishop Gregory Aymond!

Through God’s grace, each family may walk away with a renewed strength and deeper commitment to each other and to God.  This can only be achieved through your support  in both presence and prayer.  Lord, may your will be done.  Thank you for this most blessed opportunity!