For the Mothers' retreat we could report a full house. Starting on Friday 25th November the Mothers arrived in time for a fundraising auction in the front hall after which those who were staying overnight had time to find their rooms and settle down.
On the Saturday a full programme of talks and was rolled out. The main points were about the up and coming centenary celebrations marking the founding of Schoenstatt in 2014. There was also time for prayer quiet time and an opportunity for confessions when Fr Broderick came along. Some braved the cold November weather and went for a good long walk while others spent time in the house oratory. Sr. Margareta highlighted one centenary project entitled 'Give me you face'. Everyone is invited to send in a photograph of themselves which will be used to make up an image of the MTA. All this can now be done on line via the web.

The group had a chance to also see a DVD on the shrines and centres that have been built worldwide like Milwaukee, Poland England Germany and in many other countries.

The Sunday programme Being near Christmas the Mothers helped to narrate an Christmas story which they found heart warming and very emotional. Afterwards everyone was invited to write out their names on sheets of paper. The idea is that each name would be given to another person and we had to become that person's star by praying for them during advent. All in all it was a wonderful retreat and a fitting way to prepare for Advent and Christmastide.

Jeanette McGougan

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