I’ve been spending yesterday and today tying up some loose ends as I prepare to leave the parish this coming Sunday after my 6:30 and 8:00 a.m. Masses. I don’t know where the time has gone, however, it’s time for me to leave for my a retreat. As a priest, I am required by Canon Law to make a retreat annually, either with a group or by myself. a private retreat seems to work out the best for me.
I am going to be staying at a hotel near Mundelein and will be spending the majority of time next week either at St. Mary of the Lake in their chapel and/or walking their property or next door at the Conventual Franciscan’s place, Marytown.
I have to admit that I am looking forward to the week. But, before I go, I have some things to get done, hence the “tying things up” comment. I have a Pastor’s Page and bulletin cover to complete as well as typing up the daily reflections that will run through next week. I want to have those ready ahead of time in case the internet connection is flaky and I cannot post. Having them finished will be like taking an umbrella with me. We all know that having an umbrella is the best way to ensure that it won’t rain. 🙂
As to what I will do next week, well, the answer is simple: nothing. I won’t “do” anything. I will simply concentrate on “being”. I will get the rest I have been lacking and will spend as much time in quiet so as to give the Lord a chance to speak to me. The grounds at the seminary are beautiful grounds to walk and I can spend a good chunk of time there walking and praying and thinking. Oh yeah. Walking the grounds. That reminds me: take bug spray.