Before you begin your retreat, pause for a few moments to turn your focus inward. Take a few deep breaths, relax, and recognize that you are in the loving presence of God, as you continue this journey of love.

1 Corinthians 12:27

Now you are Christ's body, and individually parts of it.

When staying in an unfamiliar city over the weekend, we may find ourselves looking for a church so that we can celebrate Sunday Mass. Our search is not to find a building as much as it is to find a community of believers with whom we can pray and worship. The life of the Church is found in the people who listen to and act on the prompting of the Holy Spirit. The Church-defined by being one, holy, catholic, and apostolic-is a living sign of God's presence, and we as members are too.

In my prayer how can I include a greater awareness of the universal Church?

How can I include a greater awareness of other people?

(Pray to Jesus, using these words or those of your own choice.)

Lord, help me to be a sign of your presence.