(Be sure to visit our web site at www.capemaymarianists.org for a complete schedule, retreat photos and application)

Greetings and Happy Advent wishes from Cape May Point and all of the Marianists here!

We just completed the first of our three Advent Family Retreats. What a blessing to be able to witness families gathering during this holy season. As is tradition here at the cape – cookie making, fun skits and singing Christmas carols are all part of this experience. Speaking of traditions, this year’s theme for the Advent Retreats is Treasuring Our Advent Family Traditions.

LAST MINUTE OPENING FOR ADVENT
I know this is last minute, but due to illness 3 families had to cancel from Advent Weekends 2 and 3. If you think you might be able to be a last- minute fill-in we would love to have you. Please either call our office 609-884-3829 or email me at afucci@capemaymarianists.org

This year’s Thanksgiving Family Retreat and Men’s Retreat were both very successful and well attended. In fact, for the Men’s Retreat it was our largest since the retreat’s inception in 1999. To see photos from these retreats please click the following link www.capemaymarianists.org/2004PhotoMenu.htm

ANNUAL PHONATHON HELPING US MAKE ENDS MEET
A special thanks to those who responded to this year’s phonathon. Each year several volunteers call a selected portion of our benefactors and those who have attended retreats here recently and each year it is a positive experience. Each and every donation goes to the direct support of this ministry. Whether it’s our operating budget or assisting those who are unable to afford our retreats, each of you is helping us in our mission. I would also like to especially thank our volunteers who participated in making calls on our Center’s behalf.

PLEASE PRAY FOR…

The soul of Father John Mulligan, SM who died December 4, 2004. Fr. John was a past Provincial of the former NY Province. His leadership and support in the early days of this ministry helped us develop into who we are today. Fr. John recently served as Chaplain for our Celebration of Marriage Retreat.

• The soul of Harriet Trautman (formerly of Dayton) mother of Sister Gretchen Trautman (San Antonio, Texas). Mrs. Trautman passed away
  shortly after midnight this morning, December 3rd. Gretchen and her brother Bob were both with their mother when she died. Sister Gretchen served in this ministry in the 1970’s and 80’s.
  
• Peter, Mena and Amanda Coppa who were involved in an auto accident November 20. Also, please pray for Joan Sigafoos (former Secretary here) who was also in an auto accident.
  
• Andrea Hafele– daughter of Andrea, our Food Service Director. Andrea was attacked by a dog (bitten in the face and on the back) a few weeks ago.