As you begin your retreat, pause for a few moments. Remove yourself from the cares of the day. Rest in the love of your Church community.

Matthew 16:18

And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.

Jesus entrusted the building of the Church to Peter, not because he was a man of superior intellect, wealth, or power, but because Peter's faith and his love of Jesus were as solid as a rock. This strong foundation of faith and love is manifested today in the Marks of the Church: one, holy, catholic, and apostolic. Today, the Church is led by the successors of the apostles: the pope and the bishops. The Church finds its strength in the faith and love of Jesus.

What can I do to have a deeper faith in Jesus?

How does my life show my love of Jesus?

(Pray to Jesus using these words or your own.)

Loving God, you pour out mercy and grace through water and the Holy Spirit. Cultivate in me a loving and generous heart..