Before you start your retreat, pause for a moment. Take several deep breaths, and allow yourself to grow still. Be aware of God's loving presence within you.

Acts of the Apostles 2:42

They devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles and to the communal life, to the breaking of the bread and to the prayers.

Christianity can be a demanding way of life. The early Christians understood the conversion it required. It was necessary to listen, to learn, to think, and to act beyond their small circle of family members. Emphasis was placed on the communal life. The good of the whole was the lens through which they were to live their personal lives. The way we are called to live our discipleship is no different than that of the early Christians. It is a life in community, in service, and in prayer.

How does the good of the whole give meaning to the personal choices I make?

In what ways does my discipleship resemble that of the early Christians?

(Speak to God using these words or your own.)

Faithful God, thank you for calling me to follow your Son, and for the example of all those disciples who have gone before me. Grant me the grace to live my life as a clear sign of my love for you.