The weekend seemed difficult to even start, as my wife and I had not left our 3 young children for a period of time like this for quite a while (if ever). It was probably harder for us than it was for them -- having their grand parents take care of them. It took a little while into the retreat to really let go of some of the worries over them and truly get into the intentions of the retreat.
As I wrote in my Lay Formation application, the journey really is the reward. I am a firm believer in this and this retreat was an awesome beginning to my journey. One of the retreat staff gave a wonderful speech and ended with a bible reading that said "I speak this in the world so that they may share my joy completely." Later that same day all retreat participants randomly selected a rock with a word on the bottom. My rock said: Joy.
The retreat also afforded many moments of prayerful reflection, as well as time to take long walks with my wife to discuss anything and everything. The retreat staff had divided us into small groups as well, to break-out and discuss topics a little more intimately. Everyone in my group is very nice and it was nice to learn about different faith formation journeys that led us to that weekend. As my group has (perhaps now) learned -- I like to write a LOT more than I like to talk. :)
Throughout the retreat we were asked to journal quite a bit. As a technology nut, my hand was cramping just at the thought of doing that much writing. I endured though and am glad to have the computer to continue my journalling. As a close to the reflection paper on the retreat weekend I wrote:
My journey continues today – start a new page, a new chapter ; a new revelation about how I can build my relationship with God, selflessly preach and live His word, and bring joy and love to all.
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