BY TOM LAVIS
TLAVIS@TRIBDEM.COM
—
The parish renewal team of St. John Gualbert Cathedral is conducting a mid-Lenten retreat titled “The Gathering: Responding to God’s Call” to assist the faithful in strengthening their spiritual lives.
The public is invited to attend the retreat, which is described as a Lenten journey with Jesus, from 7 to 8:15 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday at the cathedral, 117 Clinton St., downtown Johnstown.
“It encompasses four nights where people can come to reflect and experience God’s compassion, healing and forgiveness,” said the Very Rev. James F. Crookston, rector of St. John’s.
Leading the team are Sister Ann Marie Grasso, Sister of St. Mary of Namur, and the Rev. Stephen Vasek of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate.
Several parishioners will assist the team during each of the four sessions.
Each session is based on Scripture.
“This is a unique program where attendees will get a male and female perspective on each encounter,” Crookston said.
“It is a witness of the disciples of Jesus and people can share what they learn with others.”
Crookston was quick to point out that everyone is welcome to the sessions.
“People can come and be a part of a faith community even if they have never been a part of one before,” he said.
“It is a renewal and affirmation of God’s love and a call to be a witness to the world as Jesus instructed.”
Each evening will be a separate program. People are invited to attend any or all of the sessions.
The following topics will be the focus of the retreat: Sunday, “God Really Loves Me”; Monday, “Is Life Worth Living”; Tuesday, “A Story of Homecoming”; and Wednesday, “An Awareness That Moves Us.”
There will be special children’s programming each evening from 6:45 to 8:15 for school-age youngsters at the cathedral’s activity center to accommodate those desiring to attend.
Activities will be conducted by teachers from Cathedral Catholic Academy and St. Clare of Assisi CCD program.
Free baby-sitting services also will be available for infants to prekindergartners.
Preregister: 536-1470 or email stemtrio@hotmail.com
“While there is no cost, there will be offerings taken to help support the work of the ministries of the associated leaders,” Crookston said.
Transportation is available for those parishioners needing a ride to and from the sessions.
Transportation: 659-9449 or 539-7010.
Information: 536-0117.
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