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Marianist Family Retreat Center E-News – January 2008
(Be sure to visit our web site at www.capemaymarianists.org for a complete schedule, retreat photos and application)

To find out more of what is happening in the greater Marianist Family – click here www.marianist.com/fol for Marianist Family Online - the Province E-Newsletter.

Inside this issue:

  • Director’s Message
  • College-Age Retreat Reflection & Photos
  • Cleaning & Maintenance Reflection & Photos
  • Dining Room Expansion Project Update & Photos
  • Upcoming Retreats & Critical Dates Reminder
  • Marriage Moments & Parenting Pointers

Dear Friends,

First of all I want to wish you and your families a happy, healthy and blessed 2008. Here at the Center 2007 was such a special year in so many ways. Not only did we break all of our attendance records, we raised the most money ever for the Cape Partners Fund (our Annual Appeal). Thanks to all of you who give so much this ministry is thriving.

As 2008 begins we have already had two retreats, the College-Age Retreat and our Cleaning & Maintenance Weekend (see below for reflections and photos). And as I type this letter we are hosting 52 high school seniors on a KAIROS Retreat – so yes, 2008 is underway!

We ask in a special way for your prayers over these next few weeks as we will be planning our Summer Family Retreat Program. And as always we continue to pray for all of you!

Finally, take a quick look below at a list of Upcoming Retreats and Critical Dates reminder.

 

College-Age Retreat

Thirty-one young adults joined us the first weekend in January for our College-Aged Retreat led by Brother Charles Johnson, SM. The retreat theme focused on our choices and how those choices are affected by our past, present and future. Throughout the weekend, the retreatants were engaged in a spiritual journey that was apropos for the promise of a new year. The highlights of the retreat include our trip into town Saturday night to see the Christmas lights and the awesome music ministry led by Ben Pollicino. We hope that every retreat this year is as enjoyable and spiritually fruitful as this first retreat of 2008. To see some photos from this retreat please click here.

 

Cleaning & Maintenance Retreat

It may seem odd to refer to our Cleaning & Maintenance Weekend as a retreat, but in many ways that is exactly what is has become. All of the elements that are part of our other Marianist Retreats are part of this weekend - hospitality, community, fellowship & fun, prayer, and Eucharist. And somehow in the midst of all this we are able to get an enormous amount of work done for the Center. As one of our regulars put it, “The retreat center has become a huge part of my life and coming to this (cleaning) weekend is just part of who I am.” Can’t beat that! To see some photos from this retreat please click here.

 

Dining Room Expansion Progress

We continue to make progress with our Dining Room Expansion Project. We hope to have the project complete by March 30 – with furnishings going in during April. It’s really going to be nice to have the extra space! Click the links below to get an idea of how the projects looks.
Dining Room Photos – Phase 1
Dining Room Photos – Phase 2

 

Upcoming Retreats & Critical Dates

Women’s Spirituality Retreat: February 29 – March 2

Join with other women of faith in a creative exploration of your own story and stories of women in faith. Come alone, or with a relative or friend. A team of Marianist women has prepared this weekend of rest and renewal. Eucharist, other prayer experiences, socials and fun are included.

Cost: $115 per person.
To print an application please click here.

 

Triduum Retreat (Holy Thursday to Easter Sunday)

March 20-23
This weekend, designed for those (families and/or individuals) who are seeking a special way to celebrate the Triduum, will start at supper on Holy Thursday (at 6:00pm) and end with an Easter Breakfast (Departure at 10:00am). Our time will be filled with the Holy Week liturgies, quiet time and community building. This retreat is 4 days and 3 nights.

Cost: $140per person (ages 8yrs+); $85 (ages 2-7); under 2 are free.

Many people have asked me what this retreat is like and all I can say is that before coming to work at the Center I have never experienced these last days of Holy Week all at once. Since experiencing my first Triduum Retreat in 2000 it has become a cherished tradition for our family. I encourage you to try this retreat – it is unlike any other experience offered here at the Center. To view photos from last year’s retreat please click here.

 

Mark your calendars!

February 5th is the earliest postmark date for 2008 Summer Family Retreat applications. Be sure to get your application in early to have a better chance at getting your first choice of weeks.

February 5th is also the earliest postmark date for the Spring Teen Retreat (May 9-11).

 

Marriage Moments and Parenting Pointers
Contributed by Susan Vogt, www.SusanVogt.net

On Marriage…
Listening is not the same as being quiet. After the quiet must come an effort to show your spouse you understand. If you tend to be the less verbal spouse, make an effort to share your feelings and then show your partner that you understand his or her feelings and position.

On Parenting…
Simplifying one's life is not only about reducing expenditures, but also about getting rid of clutter in order to pay attention to what's really important. Are the long long hours you work to buy stuff for your child worth the time stolen from your relationship?

Blessings to All!
The Marianists
Cape May Point

Anthony Fucci
Marianist Family Retreat Center
Center Director
609-884-3829
609-884-0545 (Fax)
www.capemaymarianists.org