I have been MIA the last few days, as my children and I attended our church's family retreat this weekend. (hubby had Army duty and couldn't be with us. :-() And the word "meaningful" is an understatement in trying to describe how amazing our retreat experience truly was.
The theme of the retreat was "refresh, renew, rejoice." It was held at the magnificent Malvern Retreat House in Malvern, PA. What a beautiful location, especially this time of year with the stunning foliage.
We on the committee tried very hard to come up with a weekend that would be prayerful and uplifting, yet have some time for fellowship for ourselves and our children. And it was indeed all of those things.
We had night prayer walks by flashlight.
talks that encouraged our children and called the adults to be living contradictions in the world and have "holy boldness" in all we say and do, even if it means stepping out of our comfort zones. These two things really resonated with us. By living our lives as authentic Christians, we are being contradictions, contradictions of everything that the world tells us we should think, say and do. And to be bold in the truth may be uncomfortable at first, but our faith is not something that is reserved to church on Sundays. A small first step could be the praying of grace in a public restaurant. We should not have to hide or be ashamed. And, who knows? That very act may encourage another or plant a seed, whose yield could be extraordinary.
We had free time where the adults and children alike were able to play and socialize with one another, go for walks on the grounds or just read, relax or pray.
We had so many different opportunities for worship and praise. We also made a family craft. Each family's was unique, but had a central theme-- a tree with the handprints of each family member as its leaves. I put our wedding date on the trunk, as I believe that was the beginning of our tree, with each child adding to the tree's beauty and fullness. (I put each of their birthdates on their "leaves.") The kids loved picking out the fabric for each of their handprints and helping me to arrange photos I had brought along of significant events that had taken place since last year's retreat. I look forward to framing our masterpiece. :-)))
Many of us stayed up well into the wee hours, reflecting upon the sermon or talks we had heard, laughing together and just enjoying each other's company. It was so encouraging to be able to spend the time with like-minded and valued people in a safe and nurturing setting. Our children all played so well together. We were very proud of them. The older ones encouraged and helped the youngers, even volunteering piggy back rides and including each other in their different activities and invented games.
The main chapel in our building had lovely windows behind it with the sun and foliage looking truly like God's masterpiece through them. There was a cross made of wooden branches outside the windows that was just stunning when seen from inside the building.
Not sure if you can see the sculpture inside the altar. It is just so perfect for a family retreat center. St. Joseph is sitting Indian style with Mary, holding baby Jesus, sitting on his lap. His arms are securely wrapped around them both. What an example of family for us all!!!!
The 10 families who participated this year were all very blessed indeed! :-)
Linking up with On, in and around Mondays in addition to Wisdom Wednesday, Living Well Wednesday, Mom's Monday Mingle, Monday Mingle, Modest Mom and Crazy Mama
P.S. If you haven't entered already, I would love for you to check out my
Advent giveaway. An author was gracious enough to give me an autographed copy of her Christian fiction book entitled "Destination: Bethlehem, An Advent Family Adventure." It is a wonderful journey through the Holy Land to be read with your children each day leading up to Christmas Eve. I know you would love it! Thanks! :-)
