In My Love, Abide: Another Weekend at Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center

Dear Friends,

This weekend, I had the opportunity to “come, and rest awhile” at the Holy Family Passionist Retreat Center in West Hartford for my second themed retreat, titled In My Love, Abide. This theme is inspired by the Gospel of John, where Jesus says, “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love” (John 15:9).

I arrived Friday night a bit later than planned, as I had to stay at work a little longer than expected. Upon arrival, I was warmly greeted by Ted, the retreat center’s registrar, who handed me my room assignment, which turned out to be the same as last year’s. This retreat was particularly special because I was joined by my brother Nicholas, who was attending for the first time.

We started the evening with a delicious dinner, a wonderful way to begin our retreat experience. After dinner, we gathered in the main conference room for the introductory session, where the retreat team introduced themselves, outlined the house rules, and gave an overview of this year’s theme. We also watched a video that set the tone for the weekend. Following the session, we moved in silence to the main chapel for evening prayers. Each of us was given an intention to pray for, left behind by the women’s retreat participants the week before. My intention was to pray for more families to attend church, a cause that resonated deeply with me.

Saturday began early at 7:30 a.m. with morning prayer. We then enjoyed a hearty breakfast before attending our first conference session led by Deb, who guided us through various styles of prayer. Afterward, we broke into small groups for discussion, with Nicholas and me joining Sr. Maryann’s group. This was followed by reconciliation in the chapel, a moment of deep reflection and spiritual renewal.

After lunch, Nicholas and I walked the labyrinth together—a peaceful and meditative experience that helped us unwind. We then returned to the retreat center for a workshop led by Fr. Terry, who delved into the deeper meaning of the Our Father prayer. Later, we attended a promoter’s meeting, where Nicholas joined my team as a new member. The day concluded with Mass in the chapel, followed by dinner and a final talk by Fr. David on the theme of unanswered prayers.

We ended our evening with prayers in the chapel and enjoyed some cookies before calling it a night. 

Sunday morning came quickly. We packed up early since our ride was leaving right after breakfast. We gathered for morning prayer and had a light breakfast before saying our goodbyes, feeling spiritually renewed and uplifted. We also made a few stops at the bookstore and picked up some inspiring materials to take home.

Overall, this retreat was a blessed time of reflection and fellowship, and I’m grateful to have shared it with my brother. I look forward to returning next year to further deepen my faith journey.


God bless,

Anthony









From left to right: Fr. Terry Kristofak, C.P., Nick, Anthony, and Fr. David Cinquegrani, C.P.







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