On May 16-18, the Young Adults had their annual retreat at the beautiful Camp Saint Joseph in the Russian River Valley.  Here is the last of four reflections from our retreat guests.

Holy Father Dominic, pray for us!

Maria

When I first heard that the Young Adult group was having a retreat I was very interested because I had many positive experiences attending retreats in college and beyond. I was even more excited when I heard that the theme of the retreat was “How am I learning to stop worrying and love myself.”  In today’s fast-paced world, we are inundated with an ocean of stress and pressure related to jobs, relationships, finances and vocational decisions. These worries can preoccupy our hearts and minds, causing us to lose focus on our Faith—the one thing that can bring us lasting solace and peace. A retreat can help center our lives.

The St. Joseph’s Retreat Center is perched above the Russian River and is surrounded by the tranquil beauty of towering redwoods and verdant hills. In this peaceful setting we had the opportunity to participate in adoration, confession, silent reflection, small group discussions and joyful fellowship. Talented and passionate young adult speakers shared their personal experiences of challenge, growth and faith. I was particularly moved by the testimonies of two Dominican Sisters whose beautiful presence emanated a profound peace and joy. Their powerful stories of struggle, discernment, devotion and great love inspired in me a desire to know and love Christ on a deeper level.

I highly recommend this retreat not only because it inspired me to grow in my faith but also because I formed friendships and became part of a supportive Catholic young adult community.