This week I will be making my annual retreat, as I will be
spending five days at Pacem in Terris,
a retreat center in Isanti, MN.
It’s a cool place where retreatants stay in their own hermitage in the
woods—in silence. (Yes, I’ll be
silent for five days. No, that
will not be easy!)
One
of the perks of being a priest is that we
are required to make an annual retreat. Canon Law mandates it!
The Church sees how important it is for a priest to get away, pray, rest
and be rejuvenated in spirit. I
have made such a retreat for several years now, and I am always blessed by what
God has in store.
Each
of us longs for such periods of rest and refreshment. That’s why the cabin, deer stand, fishing boat, shopping
trips or vacations are so exciting.
In our chaotic world we need such breaks! Always remember what St. Augustine once said: “Our hearts
are restless until they rest in thee.”
As much as we yearn for a physical break, our souls are made for
spiritual breaks. Bring God with
you on your down time.
If
you ever have the chance to go on a retreat (whether for a day, weekend or
week), please do. While this may
not be possible for many of you, I encourage you to find times of mini retreats
throughout your day and week. Take
five minutes a day in silence…enjoy a cup of coffee while reading a spiritual
book…dedicate yourself to quiet prayer each day.
We
have two wonderful mini retreat experiences at our parishes—Mass and
Eucharistic Adoration. Both are
available daily. Both provide you
with a chance to step out of the world and spend time with God. Both put you in the presence of
Jesus. Soak in the quiet, peace,
mercy and nourishment of Mass and Adoration!
Know
of my prayers for you all this week.
In a special way I will continue to pray that you and your families are
happy, healthy and holy and that our parishes may grow in joy and unity. Please pray for me as well!
God
Bless!
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