sainttheresecenter

AIDS Retreat History

The Retreats were started in the winter of 2000, when the first one was held at Lake Mead Lodge. The peaceful serenity of the
Lakeview lodging offers a unique experience while the retreat emphasizes spiritual growth and healing through a variety of
opportunities for reflection, refreshment and renewal.

The first Retreat was overseen by Father Joseph, O.P. and the Retreat Team of volunteers from the community and it centered
on God's Love and the children's story of "the little Soul and the Sun." A simple and powerful story that brings children a very
profound truth: all that we call good is love. The child will discover a God that she or he can love, because God is love, as are all
the Little Souls who are a part of God.

The second Retreat again overseen by Father Joseph, O.P. and Team was on "The Many Faces of God." The attendees were
invited to experience the face of God in all things and people around them, as well as in themselves. A highlight of the Retreat
was a three hour session with the Roman Catholic Bishop of Las Vegas, as he shared how he experienced the Face of God in the
community.

The third Retreat was "Abundant Life - Faith Hope Love" and was led by Musician and Songwriter Jeanne Cotter. The time of
renewal calls us to honor our inner life, the place of longing and wisdom where God speaks. The time of sacred reflection,
awakened dreams, nurtured the creative spirit and re energized all who live life authentically and abundantly.

The fourth Retreat was "No one is alone!" By receiving and accepting God's love, we are able to love one another
unconditionally and realize that no one is alone. The team and Father Joseph, O.P. directed this Retreat and once again Bishop
Joseph Pepe joined us for a portion of the time.

The fifth Retreat was "Living Lives of Wonder - The Magic of Community!" The Retreat Director was Father Daniel Rolland,
O.P. who in a unique type of preaching revealed spiritual truths through the use of magical performance art. The attendees
were dazzled and enlightened through his wisdom, art, talent and gentleness.

The sixth Retreat again under the direction of Father Joseph, O.P. dealt with "Dreams - Love - Faith - Hope - Courage -
Strength." This was a time to escape the hectic City life and the bustle of the pre holiday season and a time for enjoyment of the
natural surroundings of Lake Mead. While contemplating the beauty of God's creation a highlight of the weekend was the
retreat's first cruise on Lake Mead!

The seventh Retreat in planning stages will feature Father Michael Phones, O.P. from the Catherine of Siena Institute who will
lead attendees in being called and gifted while being HIV+ and discovering God's call in their life!