Marianist Family Retreat Center’s Rooted in Hope Retreat

Admin
2 days ago
2 min read

A recent "Rooted in Hope" weekend refugee retreat at the Marianist Family Retreat Center provided over thirty Haitian participants with a much-needed opportunity for rest, prayer, and uplifting community connection.

There is a Haitian Creole saying, “Lespwa fe viv (Hope is Life),” and this sentiment was evident at the recent family retreat for refugees at the Marianist Family Retreat Center. Over 30 Haitian participants joined our team of volunteers (some of whom are part of the MSJC Immigration Team) for a weekend filled with prayer, sessions, activities, and free time to explore the beauty of the beach. We offered this retreat in collaboration with InterfaithRISE, an organization in Central New Jersey. Bro. Jean Dossous, SM, also lent a hand and translated key parts of the program in advance.

The theme of the retreat was “Rooted in Hope,” which resonated with the retreatants as they considered how hope sustains them even in truly difficult times. We celebrated their hopes, expressed gratitude for the way God strengthens hope, honored those who give them hope, and considered how they can share their hope with others. We also had plenty of fun, including a walk to Cape May Point State Park, the chance to climb the lighthouse, and a rousing sing-along with Bro. Stan Zubek, SM, and friends.

As the retreat came to a close, what the retreatants shared about their experience echoed the sentiments of so many families who come here, though, in light of the struggles they have encountered, these reflections took on new meaning. They were grateful for the respite, which is hard to come by in their lives; they appreciated the quality time to spend together with their family, and they were grateful for the community that was built. The retreat team also expressed how they were inspired by the resilience and faithfulness of the retreatants.

The theme of “Rooted in Hope” was more than a program title; it was brought to life in the shared experiences of this very special retreat weekend.