Thomas Merton tells us that, “…contact with God is something we all need: and one of the ways in which it has been decreed that we should arrive at it is by hearing one another talk about God.”
At the Parish Retreat we take the time to step back and remember how passionately God loves us and who He created us to be. Like the prophet Samuel, we say, "Speak, Lord. Your servant is listening." We hear and contemplate God's word; we pray; we discuss; we become community; we laugh; we cry; we break bread together. We recall the Father's love for us; we welcome his Son into our hearts; we open ourselves to the work of the Spirit.
After the retreat, attendees are invited to grow and persevere. This process is enhanced by joining Small Faith Communities, modeling Christian spiritual growth through prayer, edification, and study. While the initial impact of the retreat can produce profound results, it is often the witness of the on-going growth, which the participants experience, that speaks loudest in their lives.
Comments of Retreat participants:
"As a new resident in Fallbrook, the parish retreat allowed me to integrate more fully into St Peter's parish life and opened up a whole new family for me."
"The Retreat was the loving vehicle that emerged me into my Parish Family life; affirming my trust that Jesus ALWAYS walks with me."
"Warm, welcoming and loving."
"Attending the Parish Retreat provided a spirit-filled experience that nourished me for a new direction on my life-long faith journey with God."
"An outlet for faith to grow into action."
"The retreat made me think about what am I doing every day to get closer to our Lord? What actions can I take to be a better role model to people I see everyday."
"The retreat for me was a renewal for my spirit and mind and transformed my life in more ways than I can count. "
"The Retreat offered a long overdue opportunity to re-energize my faith and refresh my soul."
The Parish Retreat is held at the Parish and normally takes place during the month of February. For more information please contact Kristine Almada at 760-689-6208 or at kalmada@stpeter-fallbrook.org