Unexpected Graces from Retreats

 I never would have expected to have gone on 3 retreats in 3 years. These weren't necessarily planned on my own accord, but rather just came about. 

The first one in 2023 was a spring retreat, after Easter but still during the Easter season. It was in mid-May right around Mother's Day. One of my sisters was helping plan it and invited other women (it was a women's silent retreat). I initially thought I couldn't go due to a lot of assignments and a busy time of year. But later, I felt an inspiration from the Holy Spirit to go, and everything did work out and was able to take some time off work and everything to make it happen. I'm so glad I did. 

I still remember this special and refreshing retreat, one which was so needed to get away from all the noise, and distractions. We were given small notebooks to take our notes in throughout the retreat, and I tried my best to take the notes from the priest's reflections and homily; he was a profound speaker. 

It was nice to be around other catholic women and cultivate this prayerful silence and listening to the reflections from the CFR priest and time spent in adoration, as well as opportunities for confession. My sister asked me to be a lector for one of the readings and though I was somewhat nervous, it was powerful to proclaim the word of God. 

The second retreat was at the end of 2024 for Confirmation. I was helping out with this weekend retreat for the Confirmation Year 2. I didn't realize or anticipate how much I needed to get away, in silence, in nature, beauty, outdoors and to be with the teens and get to know them a little more. There was preparation for this retreat, but I didn't expect that it would feel like a retreat for myself as well- so many graces, consolations, tears, gratitude, prayers. It was a trying time. 

The 3rd retreat was this year, just 2 weeks ago. I heard about it from my sister-in-law. It was the author and speaker, Immaculee Ilibagiza who spoke at a church. And luckily, it wasn't too far away, and I was able to make it work with my schedule. It was so beautiful to meet her in person, after reading her books a number of times. I used that small green notebook I used from the women's retreat to take notes on what she said. I never would have imagined having met her. It was a joyous and grace filled time.