On Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018, Brs. Brenden, Leland and I hosted a day of recollection for the adorers at St. Clement Eucharistic Shrine.  Br. Brenden, the lead organizer, arranged things well with talks, prayer time, Confession, Mass and wrapup.  The retreat theme was growing in intimacy with Jesus.

Each of us gave a 30-minute talk.  We discussed much about our talks before the recollection.  But it’s amazing how well they fit together and lead into the next part of the retreat.

Br. Brenden talked about the great love story of Jesus.  He has courted us by picking us out like the disciples, preparing our unique place in the Father’s house and suffering with us like in the Agony in the Garden.  Br. Brenden linked that story with the humorous story of how his parents fell in love.  I was deeply moved by his talk.  That visceral feeling carried me into a fruitful meditation. 

Meanwhile, Br. Leland explained how the Virgin Mary grew intimacy with God from her Immaculate Conception to carrying the Christ Child in her womb to raising Jesus to suffering with him at the Cross and to the pouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.  Br. Leland teased lessons for us to grow closer to Jesus.

My talk focused the story of the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, particular their invitation: “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening and the day is almost over” Luke 24:29 NAB.  I discussed options for the prayer time.  Interiorly, ask Jesus to reveal himself or rest in Jesus.  Exteriorly, ask what mission Jesus is giving us and share the graces we received with others.

I was surprised how quickly the day went.  It was setup to the next series of steps to cleanup.  Br. Leland noted that it was 20 minutes to set up and 15 to clean up.

The participants complimented us on the day of recollection.  During the group sharing, each person was able to share a grace from the retreat.  I found myself talking about my master’s thesis on St. Maximilian Kolbe.  I can’t get seem to keep that far away from me.

I wouldn’t mind hosting another day of recollection for the adorers.  They have prayed for us and everyone.  I can’t thank them enough for their generosity to Jesus.