Women's Commission holds retreat

By Elaine Ford
President Commission for Women  

SHREWSBURY – The diocesan Commission for Women held a mini-retreat Oct. 19 at St. Mary’s Parish Hall. Eighty-five women from around the diocese attended. The theme was “Re-entering the Paradise of the Heart: A Spiritual Path for Healing” facilitated by Sister Katherine Hermes, a Daughter of St. Paul. She is the author of many books including her most recent book “Reclaim Regret:  How God Heals Life’s Disappointments.”  
The retreat began with Mass celebrated by Father Javier Julio, associate pastor of St. Mary’s.  The prayers of the faithful recognized several issues women face and prayers for the women attending the retreat.
Sister Katherine’s presentation began with the message:  You are called to be saints.  The Church and the world need you! 
When each of us has a moment of quiet we realize that we carry within ourselves hidden wounds that seem to block our way to generously living and loving those around us, and even ourselves, she told the attendees.
All of us carry wounds from the experiences we have had in our lives.  We may no longer remember what caused this brokenness, but we have the uncomfortable awareness of being pushed and pulled by hidden forces within.  We do or say things we regret, but can’t seem to change, she said.
Today we live in a Church and a world that cries out for the generous and courageous action of wounded healers, the women learned.
Through quiet prayer, guided inner exploration, and Scripture meditation, this retreat helped women to take self-ownership. They learned how to stand at the door of their heart, and to re-enter the paradise of the heart. The women left with prayer guides and life tools to use daily.
Some of the personal reflections of the retreat the women submitted include: “It opened my mind to different ways of reflection,” “I enjoyed the fellowship with other Catholic women from different parishes,” “a delightful presentation with thought provoking issues of faith and a different way of looking at memories,”  and “I am able to face issues that need attention and healing and thank the Commission for Women for a wonderful experience.” (Photos by Pamela Ashmankas)