I spent this past weekend in Villa Maria, Pennsylvania where I was blessed to lead a retreat for deacons and their wives from the Diocese of Youngstown, Ohio. Here are a few random thoughts from the road.
Driving takes its toll!
While driving was far less expensive than flying, there were a ton of tolls as one traveled from Illinois to Pennsylvania and
back again. The term “sticker shock” comes to mind. All I can say is thank goodness for I-PASS!
Hall of Fame
In case you were not aware, Indiana has a Recreational Vehicle and Motor Home Hall of Fame. Who knew? I guess the old saying is true that there is a museum for EVERYTHING!
Voiceless directions
As I was about an hour or so out from my final destination, I put the address in my phone’s map app. However, for whatever reason, it would not speak the directions out loud to me. So I had to keep glancing down at my phone to see where I needed to go. This is very similar in our spiritual life. We are often to pre-occupied with other things that we do not hear when God is speaking to us. We need to remember to always turn our gaze back to the Father so we can find our way. And of course, take the time to listen to what God has to say to us.
Brothers and Sisters in Christ
I had the chance to meet my brother deacons and their wives as I spent the weekend with them on retreat. I can say with
deepest sincerity that the Catholic Churches in Youngstown are in extremely good hands. I met with some the of the most faithful and caring servants of God, willing to do whatever it takes to spread the Gospel. It was an honor and privilege to be in the company of so many who are “on fire” with the faith.
All good things…
As I made the long journey back home, my heart was filled with joy after that powerful weekend. I will always cherish the memories and friendships made and all the wonderful stories and jokes that were shared. As I arrived home, this beautiful quote came to mind:
“You will never be completely at home again, because part of your heart will always be elsewhere. That is the price you pay for the richness of loving and knowing people in more than one place.”
My deepest gratitude for your gracious hospitality. May God continue to bless you in all that you do!
Then the LORD said to Jacob: Return to the land of your ancestors, where you were born, and I will be with you. ~Genesis 31:3
Ah, there’s no place like home. Read why here.
We were so re charged as we left our retreat weekend wiht Deacon Allen. I most certainly highly recomend him if anyone out there is in need of a retreat leader/speaker. His message, humor and most definitely his music along wiht prayer certainly kept us focused on our Ministry of service. God Bless and thank you Deacon Allen.
Thank you, Deacon Michael. It was an honor to spend the weekend with all of you – and so good to finally meet you in person. May God bless you in all that you do in his loving service.
Very proud of you, Allen. I’m sure the Spirit worked through you well to reach the hearts and minds of those attending. Just had a hard time figuring why the deacons from Ohio were making their retreat in Pennsylvania.
Thank you. The reason is that there is a beautiful retreat center right over the Ohio border in Pennsylvania. I cannot blame them for going there, it was outstanding.