Bishop Soens to lead retreat for elder persons
Posted April 11, 2002

As a means to give back to parishioners who have contributed so much to their parish communities, the Office of Faith Formation will sponsor retreat reflections this spring in every deanery of the diocese.

Bishop Lawrence D. Soens, retired  bishop of the diocese, will present "The Vocation of Elder...People of Wisdom."

This retreat will be set up similar to the "Blessings of Age" that the retired bishop facilitated last year. He agreed to lead another series of retreats for elder persons after the success of the earlier reflections.

The two-hour gatherings will feature reflections by the bishop with time for small group discussion and/or private reflection.

"We wanted to say to them that we know spiritual support and nourishment is needed lifelong," said Kay Morrissey, director of the Office of Faith Formation.

The format and length of the retreat is the same in both locations. The starting time may vary. Persons may opt to attend the retreat that is closest to them or can select either date that works best.

The first retreat will be offered on April 18 at St. Anthony's in Hospers. Bishop Soens will preside at 9 a.m. Mass with refreshments to follow. The reflection is expected to conclude at 11:30 a.m.

St. Thomas in Manson is the site of the second elder retreat. Father Dale George, pastor, will celebrate the regularly scheduled daily Mass at 8:30 a.m. with the reflection to start around 9 a.m.

Persons should call the Office of Faith Formation, 712-233-7530, to register for either site. Approximate numbers are needed so that adequate materials and food can be prepared.

There is no cost to attend the retreats. Other dates and sites may be scheduled in May.