Dear Friends of the Marianist Family Ministry,

I am currently reading a book entitled “Growing in the Virtues of Jesus” by Quentin Hakenwerth, S.M. and it takes one on a spiritual journey sharing a process that leads to “a new awareness of yourself, of others and of God”.  Chapter Three reflects on “Words” and the enormous power, even ordinary words have on others. “They can enlighten, inspire, encourage. They can heal offenses and soothe griefs. They can lift someone’s spirits and inspire creativity…. On the other hand, words can also confuse and discourage; they can hurt and arouse anger. They can dampen spirits and cause division….The difference depends on where the words come from inside of us: from the ego-centered habits of our ego self, or from the virtues of our new self in Jesus.” Father Hakenwerth’s challenge to us is to use” life-giving words” that are “born out of listening with a caring heart.” 

Each and every person who has served or supported the Christian Family Ministry program in Topsail has a caring heart. On Saturday, October 25, 2008, many of us will come together at the Catholic Center in Raleigh , NC , to share information about the retreat center and the Marianist Family Ministry. We will listen attentively and turn to God in prayer asking for His guidance. The MFM Inc. Board of Directors will then pray, discuss and discern next steps.

The schedule for the weekend is as follows:

Saturday (10/25/08)

·         9am-Prayer Service, Father Richard Kuhn, S.M.

·         10am-Business Board Meeting to include the town hall meeting.

·         Noon-Lunch (we will ask everyone to contribute to a pizza and beverage meal).

·         1pm- Board Meeting (Executive Session).

·         4pm-Board Meeting-(open) to provide feedback regarding proposals.

·         6pm- Dinner at a local restaurant TBA.

Sunday (10/26/08)

·         9am-Board Meeting (Executive Session).

·         Noon-Mass with Father Rich and departure.

Please email me at tinab220@yahoo.com and confirm your desire to speak at the town hall meeting.

I ask all those not attending this meeting to keep us in prayer.   

Appreciatively,

Tina Bauman  

“I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do, and will do greater ones than these, because I am going to the Father” (Jn 14:12).