If we can rely on the feedback from the various attendees, the CPST retreat at the St. Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista was a complete success. Of all the people who made this retreat, no one seemed dissatisfied, and everyone was blessed.
Beginning on Friday evening, we assembled in the Fireside Lounge. This conference area and the main chapel are in the lower part of the retreat center, surrounded by our rooms. Therefore, no one had to climb to climb a flight of stairs or walk very far to attend the liturgies or conferences. This was from the Lord. We would not have had this part of the retreat center except for a group canceling at the last minute. Praise God!
The music ministry, Frank Zuniga, Theresa Huether, and group, were just great. They were sensitive to the Spirit and the needs of the retreat at all times. Thank you. Thank you.
At mealtimes, many people changed tables so they could sit with different people at every meal. Due to this practice, a bonding seemed to develop. Healing was prayed for and received on many levels. It came slowly and subtly, but it was there. One person told us her arm was healed. The problem had begun over a year ago, and had steadily grown worse. She was recently widowed and had never attended a retreat before, Charismatic or otherwise. No particular prayers were said for the condition, but slowly, throughout the weekend, Jesus healed her. Needless to say, she was thrilled.
Relationships that had been broken over many years were also healed. Jesus simply stepped in and did it. These and other stories of were shared with me. God certainly did great and wonderful things. No doubt in response to all the prayers that were offered and all of the petitions in the Prayer Basket. These were all brought to the Lord at each Mass. We also acknowledge the aid of our Blessed Mother and the other intercessors who prayed for us prior to and during the retreat.
Father Tony made sure that nobody was put under any pressure. He brought everything that could possibly be required by anyone for prayer, meditation, or study. Music, videos, books, and his personality and manner. He put people at ease from the beginning and kept reminding them to "relax".
Originally, we intended to have Fr. Chuck, Fr. Dave, Fr. Tony, and Dc. Joe conduct the retreat. Unfortunately, Fr. Chuck was transferred, but the others surely contributed with their special gifts. Fr. Dave explained about the process involve in discernment. Dc. Joe supplied the homilies and helped out during the question and answer period. His homilies were carefully thought out and, I believe, spoke to all there.
Since the retreat, CPST has received several thank you notes and cards, particularly for the scholarship plan. It allowed some to attend who otherwise would not have been able to do so. God will surely bless CPST for this. One thank-you note said they felt that they were privileged to be there. Another told of how grateful they were for the teachings, surroundings, and general good feelings of being with so many of God’s people.
Next year the retreat will be August 18, 19, and 20, 1995 at the St. Francis Retreat Center. The plan allowing you to send a small amount each month for the retreat worked well for several. By the time of the retreat their costs were all payed for. There will be more information about next year’s retreat in the future. God bless you all and thank you for all of the cooperation you have given us.
Printed in the October 1994 issue of the "Living Water." Published for the Charismatic Renewal in the Diocese of San Jose, California. Permission to copy is granted, as long as proper credit is given.
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