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

Greetings and Happy New Year from Cape May Point and all of the Marianists here!

I hope that you had wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year. We are very excited for the new year here at the Cape. Our 2005 program schedule is set and we are looking forward to another Spirit-filled year. I want to thank so many who sent us notes, cards and pictures over the Christmas holidays – our office wall is full!

A few reminders – the earliest POST MARK date to sign up for a SUMMER FAMILY WEEK or the MAY TEEN RETREAT is February 1. Also, our April Women’s Retreat is just about full and the October one is about half full. If you are interested in this retreat please send in an application soon.

CAPE MAY POINT BEACHES RESTORED
Thanks to massive federal funding, the Army Corps of Engineers was able to complete significant beach replenishment in Cape May Point – so much so you will not recognize the beaches. Just by way of example, stairs are no longer needed to get down to the sand – the sand was pumped that high! Click here to see some photos www.capemaymarianists.org/2004_beach.htm

HAPPY 80TH BROTHER ED!
That’s right! Our own Brother Ed turned 80 years old this past December 24. While Ed may physically be 80, he contributes to this ministry and our local community at an age decades younger than that.. We had a surprise luncheon and invited many of our neighbors to wish Ed well. The afternoon was highlighted by several attendees giving personal witness as to the impact Ed’s life has had on them and the community. Click here to see photos from the party - www.capemaymarianists.org/Brother%20Ed_80.htm

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE WEEKEND A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE
Once again this year we asked folks to come and help clean, paint and fix! Believe it or not we actually had a waiting list of people wanting to help. Over 30 volunteered their time, talent and humor. What a blessing to have so many willing lend a hand.

FIRE SAFETY TO BE INCREASED GREATLY AT THE CENTER
In June 2004 our Center was subjected to a fire safety inspection by the State of NJ. During this inspection it was noted that due to the fact we have an exposed internal stairwell in the Main House, we are in violation of NJ State fire code. Our two options included enclosing the stairwell or installing a fire suppression system (sprinkler). Due mainly to functionality and aesthetics we chose not to close in the stairwell. With great technical help from John Bowie (Retreatant, Board Member and Architect) and a generous funding from the Marianist Province, we are in the process of having a sprinkler system installed. While this comes at a significant expense we feel that it does not compare with the increased the safety of our guests. The work has begun and should be completed by the middle of February.

FEATURED 2005 RETREATS:

HOLY WEEK TRIDUUM – MARCH 24 – 27
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 and end with an Easter Breakfast. Our time will be filled with the Holy Week liturgies, quiet time and community building. Note: We ask that participants who attend two consecutive years attend every other year thereafter. The retreat is 4 days and 3 nights. The cost for this retreat is $135/pp ages 8-adult, $75 ages 2-7; Maximum per family is $550.

SPRING FAMILY WEEKEND – APRIL 1 – 3 (THIS RETREAT IS HALF FULL) Come and join other families forming a Christ-centered community for the weekend. Skits, presentations, prayer, Eucharist, free-time and lots of fun are all a part of this retreat.

Click here to print an application www.capemaymarianists.org/Applicationmenu.htm

Please pray for…

Jean Canning who is ill and in the hospital.