I realize my last post focused more on discerning reasons we might refuse the invitation to attend a silent retreat. It came to me today that I should add my own personal experience and why I have come to truly value attending these retreats.
Many times I asked myself, “How can I keep my children grounded in their Catholic faith? How can I ensure that my husband and my boys truly feel God’s love?”
Realizing that what helped me to recognize Christ in the Catholic Church was not just the example that my own parents provided, by attending mass weekly, being involved in our Parish community, encouraging family rosary and attending retreats and formative conferences themselves.
My spiritual journey has also been strengthened by the sacrifices I have made in the time I have devoted to attend retreats, formative talks and to participate in adult Catechesis programs. My children are young, and I don’t know for certain what their journey ahead will be, or what choices they will make. I can say without a doubt that if my own parents’ example left an impression on me (good or bad), I know my example will leave an impression on them.
Our children will see right through us, if we are not sincerely living as Catholics that is the example they will take with them. If we are not keeping Christ first in our lives, how can we expect them too? I can preach to my children all day, but we all know, that what I say is drowned out by the example I give them everyday.
If I want a good chance at my children remaining good Catholics, then I have to be a good Catholic myself. If I want my children to feel God’s love, then I have to know God’s love myself.
A weekend away, or a program to help me learn my faith may seem like a sacrifice at first, but this is all part of the example I provide, and while providing the example I take advantage of growing closer to Christ. The example is not a show I put on for my kids; it’s a natural part of growing in friendship with Christ. If you have read my post on “Meditation on Gods Love”
it may clarify the point I am trying to make here.
Again, I understand that sometimes there is a good reason for missing out, but acknowledge that you are missing out. The wonderful gift of “free will” allows us to make this choice. I pray then that you resolve to deal with challenges and look forward to attending future retreats.
