The Beacon.Com

Marianist Family Retreat Center E-News – October 2007
(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
• Welcome Ben Pollicino – Our 2007-2008 Marianist Volunteer
• New addresses for Brother Ray McQuade & Fr. Rich Kuhn
• A Celebration of Marriage Retreat – Recap & Photos
• Spiritual “Getaway” Days – October & Novemeber
• A Look Ahead to 2008
• Marriage Moments & Parenting Pointers

Dear Friends,

As some of you may know, my wife Erin has multiple sclerosis (MS). She was diagnosed back in 1999. Over these years she has been on special medications and has been doing really well considering how debilitating this disease can be. As she describes it, she feels blessed in that her symptoms have been somewhat mild to this point in her life. Since she is physically able to do most things that she likes to do (walking, running, aerobics, etc.) she has decided to complete a 30 mile walk over two days to benefit those who live with and endure this disease on a daily basis, especially those who cannot walk anymore. As you can imagine, I am very proud of Erin – watching her train (even though it has meant a lot more babysitting for me!) has been a joy.

As a member of our Marianist Family Retreat Center family, I ask you all to pray for Erin as she continues her training and especially on October 13-14, the days of the walk. You can email Erin at efucci@comcast.net.

Welcome Ben Pollicino, Our 2007-2008 Marianist Volunteer

If Ben’s name sounds familiar, it is because he has been coming to Mary’s House with his family for nineteen years and he has volunteered here for various retreats for the last six of those years. Ben is originally from Long Island. His experience with retreat ministry includes a year as a Youth Minister for NET Ministries and another year as Retreat Staff & Music Leader for St. Gabriel’s Retreat Center for Youth. Most recently, Ben attended St. Mary’s University in Minnesota where he studied Theater and Youth Ministry. In addition, he is involved in the Marianist contact program.

We are so fortunate to have Ben as he brings with him experience in retreat ministry, musical talent and deep faith. In addition, as anyone who knows Ben can attest to, he brings his abundant energy and good humor. In turn, Ben hopes to gain a greater understanding of what it means to be a Marianist, to develop his relationship with God and gain insight into the family ministry work we do here at the retreat house. Ben also confided in us that he hopes to learn Andrea’s secret recipe for chocolate chip cake.

We are delighted to welcome Ben and we look forward to a mutually beneficial year together filled with God’s blessings.

New Addresses for Brother Ray McQuade & Fr. Rich Kuhn

Recently Brother Ray and Fr. Rich both moved from their community in North Carolina and many of you have been asking for their new addresses. Fr. Rich has moved to the new Marianist Community in Baltimore. He will be a visiting Chaplain for various entities in the area where he lives. His new address and phone are Fr. Rich Kuhn Marianist Community 317 So. Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231. (410)522-1568

Brother Ray McQuade has moved to a Marianist Assisted Living Center on the campus of St. Mary’s University in San Antonio. Jessica and I recently spent time in Texas and were able to visit and have lunch with Brother Ray. He is doing very well and is living in a supportive loving community. He does show some signs of memory loss and some continued physical ailments (hip, walking, etc.). He was in good spirits and asked for your prayers. If you decide to write to Brother Ray it would be good to include some photos. His address and phone are Brother Ray McQuade Marianist Residence, St. Mary’s University 520 Fordham Lane San Antonio, TX 78228-4821. (210)436-3246

A Celebration of Marriage Retreat

On the weekend of September 14-16 seventeen retreat couples and four team couples gathered for our annual Celebration of Marriage Retreat. This year’s lead couple, Chris & Joanie Roe, was supported by Liz & Larry Lang, Tony & Sharon Bellitto and Joel & Joanne Martin. By the atmosphere that was present here on Sunday afternoon when I arrived for mass, I could tell that this was a very special weekend. Just read some of the comments from the evaluations:

“I appreciate the (team) couples willingness to share their lives with us. I could identify with and find strength in their stories…Perfect! This was the right balance of sessions and free time…Thanks…The pace and style of the weekend was just what I was hoping for to reenergize our marriage commitment…I believe we are a changed couple…I told my husband things I have only felt, but never had the courage to share before.” To see photos from the retreat click here.

THANK YOU! Each year the team couples donate a special gift to our Center. This year they donated the four new outside benches that will be primarily used for our evening Rosary on the Summer Family Retreats.

Autumn Spiritual “Getaway” Days

Give yourself a special gift by "re"-treating with an autumn getaway from your hectic schedule. There is no required program to follow. You’re invited to join in the Eucharist, morning and evening prayer, and meals with the Marianist Community members. Sacrament of Reconciliation and/or spiritual direction are usually available. You may also want to stroll the nearly empty beaches, read a book, or reflect on Scripture.
October 9-11, 23-25, November 6-8 – Cost is $100 per person.

A Look Ahead to 2008!

January 4-6 – College-Age (18-22) Retreat. Led by Brother Charles Johnson, Jessica & Fooch

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

On Marriage…
Love is an ongoing process of learning to let go of having something "my way." Most of us have at least a little stubborn streak in us. The scripture, "Be subject to one another" (Ephesians 5:21) calls us to grow up and give in - at least some of the time

On Parenting…
When your child makes a mistake, fails at something, or simply has some bad luck, teach him or her the skill of "recovery." This is more valuable in life than just being lucky. Recovery means you figure out how to make amends and what to do prevent the problem in the future.

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