Franciscan Retreats: November Women

November Women

Following are comments from some of the women who attended our November Women's Retreat:

Every year when I come on retreat with my daughters someone tells me what a blessing it is to share the experience with them. That comment is, in itself, a blessing.

The food gets better every year.

How much would I spend on a weekend for hotel, gas, food – without God and spirituality. I’m raising my donation! This is priceless.

I wasn’t so sure I wanted to come this year. It was very touch and go right up to the day of my leaving. I am a caregiver and I had to trust God to take care of the situation. I prayed for that. I feel healed, rested, and transformed, thanks to Him and to all who minister here to us in this sacred place.

I was sitting by the lake early this morning speaking to my Dad who just passed away. Suddenly I heard a noise and I saw a female deer. I said, “Thanks, Mom but I thought Dad would come.” The deer kept moving its head to the right but I didn’t follow it. I just kept talking. The doe finally held its head to the right. As I followed its gaze I saw a large buck with a huge rack. I said, “Hi Did, I’m glad to see you’re having fun.” The doe headed back towards the woods and the buck followed and I knew my day’s long suffering had been replaced with joy. Amen!

This was one of the most peaceful weekends of my life. I will definitely return next year. I’ve learned some new skills and techniques to take with me. God bless you all.

All of the conferences were very good. Discipline struck chords with me, especially. I liked the analogy of pruning and the explanation of what benefits occur and how that relates to our relationship with God. I also enjoyed the talk on Happiness and Holiness, all of the attributes of a natural child.

You have renewed and refreshed my spirit, mind, heart, and body.

It’s always a blessing to come to a quiet place removed from the busyness of life’s routines. I have never attended a women’s retreat so I miss the opportunity to reflect and share the ideas presented in each talk with my spouse. Thanks for your ministry, I hope to return.

Unbelievable. Indescribable. No coincidence; God incidence, over and over.

Thanks to the staff for offering a special weekend to me and helping me on my spiritual journey. It was a great 48 hours. Chris Martin, I would come on retreat if all that was offered was your music.

Father Ken said one can die to the world for a weekend. I am not sure who or what to pray for when I come. All God asks is that I show up. Thank you. Well done.

Every time I come here I get a feeling of renewal. These retreats must become a priority in my life, as they help to put everything in perspective. I leave here with a feeling of peace and know that I don’t have to try to do it all.

I came not knowing anyone but was reacquainted with two friends. I especially found God in the beautiful outdoors.

God blesses me everyday but I believe I am more aware of it at this holy, peaceful retreat home. When I am still, I hear Him. Thank you for all you do.

I am going home with a happy heart and very joy filled. This weekend was needed to help me face some issues that have been troubling me. I have allowed God to take over and I have placed my full trust in him.

This was exactly what I needed. Thank you for helping me to accept that, “The way it is is the way it is.” And that God has no regrets about me. So neither do I have regrets.

This retreat is like coming to my second home. I liked the way Kris welcomes me and takes me to my room.

The retreat made me aware to accept what is and live for today.

As always, I found this retreat so refreshing. The peace and quiet are just what I need. It is gives me an opportunity to reevaluate my life and focus on one area that is of current concern. Each conference and liturgy provided at least one word, phrase, or idea that was particularly helpful. I really enjoyed the morning and evening liturgies; what a wonderful way to begin and end each day. The staff and friars are so welcoming and helpful. I truly feel at home in this sacred space.

I loved the supportive structure of faith and trust in God this retreat gave and encouraged. I pray that God may ever give strength and courage to all who organize this retreat. That it might stay as focused on God’s peace in the beautiful silence.