Regnum Christi Retreat

I went to a Regnum Christi retreat this past weekend. I have facilitated many youth retreats and directed camps for various churches but I have never gone to a retreat myself.
I do not know what I expected -- I truly went with total openness and hope for, at the very least, personal time with God. I could hardly wait to have almost 2 whole days away from worldly worries and responsibilities to just be with God.

It was everything I hoped for and ..... much more. Surprising to me, it was hard! I did so much spiritual work that I felt exhausted... at times I felt afraid of my own sinfulness .... but mostly so very safe and loved by Jesus.

I felt the love of my parents (both have died), I felt the miles of road behind me and the path they set for me and I praise God for all the obstacles and for all the suffering.

I felt Jesus and Mary right there with me. I think they felt so present and tangible because I was paying attention. Maybe because I was allowing time to listen more in my prayer. Did I mention this was a silent retreat?

During Mass today the Sisters at The Carmelite Prayer House Convent sang from their pews (no fancy choir) and their voices sounded to me like angels. I was in this midst of a community of women who live to serve God . . . . Of course I knew that but I don't think I really understood before.

If you have not gone on a Catholic retreat I humbly but fervently encourage you to do so.