They came seeking the fullness of Christ’s joy

Sr. Sara Kowal, SCJTM
Director of Pastoral Ministries

Joy. It sometimes seems like an elusive commodity these days. But yet, how much we all long for it. During our most recent Vita Christi Retreat on Oct. 27-29, participants came seeking the fullness of joy with the retreat theme: “That your joy may be full” (Jn 15:11). During the retreat, they were able to open their hearts to the joy that can only come from Jesus Christ, and they were not disappointed.

Participants heard from multiple talks throughout the weekend about how we can discover the peace and joy of Christ more fully: through prayer, through Scriptures, through growth in virtue and human formation, through self-giving love (even when it hurts), and through suffering (yes, even through suffering). They came to understand more deeply that having joy does not mean that life is easy. Joy does not come or go based on the circumstances of my life in any given moment. It is, instead, found in my union with Jesus, and it is possible to have even in life’s hardest moments.

It was clear that many of the retreatants came bearing heavy burdens upon their hearts. It was also clear that the Lord gave them many graces to lift and bear these burdens during their time of retreat. It was clear that He offered them clarity of vision, a greater understanding and trust of his plans, and many graces to carry them peacefully and with joy.

One of the most beautiful moments of the weekend was our time of adoration on Saturday evening. Hearts were open to praise and adore God, to let Him be the Lord — it was deeply moving to see the freedom and openness in the hearts of all the retreatants; and to see how the Lord rewarded this by pouring many graces into their hearts.

The retreat team would like to share some testimonies of our retreat attendees that weekend. “I’ve been on a big healing journey this year … I’ve had highs and lows, times of extreme desolation, and glimmers of hope and joy. I have looked for all the answers, and this past October, I came to a place of complete desolation. I questioned why it was so hard and why it wasn’t getting better. I was so grateful that I had signed up for the Vita Christi retreat, but I was extremely tired and weary coming to it … The Lord used the entire weekend: the people present and an abundance of His grace and mercy. I loved that there was a silent element, it gave me permission to be present and tell my family I would be turning off my phone. The sisters gave beautiful talks, and I felt the feminine perspective in all of it. I heard of the goodness of suffering and what it does for us as God’s beloved. It was so reaffirming to hear them say: it is good, it is for a purpose, and yes, it is hard. Really hard at times. The beautiful music, the healing prayer, and just an abundance of joy. I left the weekend tired but lifted up.” (Angelica W.)

“I didn’t have expectations going into the weekend. I thought I would learn more about my Catholic faith and take some time for myself. I did do those things but it ended up being so much more. Everyone that spoke, spoke from their heart. They shared what they know about our faith and how it has worked in their lives and changed their lives. I felt their joy and love. Then I felt God’s joy and love for me. It has been a long time since I felt that way. The weekend left me with so many graces and a better understanding of God’s plan for me. It was a retreat I’ll never forget. I’m so glad I took the time to attend and I definitely encourage others to do the same.” (Shannon G.)

The next Vita Christi retreat is scheduled for April 26-28, 2024. Save the date!