Over the past four years, the Welcome program has helped our parishes grow into more than places where we gather for Mass. It has helped us become communities where people are truly known, welcomed, and connected. Through shared experiences, conversations, and opportunities to come together, we have begun to move beyond simply recognizing familiar faces to building meaningful relationships with one another.
One of the greatest gifts of this program has been the reminder that community is built when we take the time to truly know one another – to hear each other’s stories, share our faith, celebrate our joys, and support one another through life’s challenges. It has created opportunities for people who might not otherwise connect to form friendships and discover the many gifts each person brings to our parish family.
As we look ahead, we recognize that it is time to take a pause from our current formation and retreat offerings for a while.
This pause is not an end to our commitment to building community, but an opportunity to reflect, listen, and discern where God is calling us next. We are working on something more for our parish communities, with the hope of continuing to bring people together in meaningful ways and creating even more opportunities to build relationships, deepen our faith, and strengthen our sense of belonging. We look forward to sharing more as these plans take shape.
Most importantly, we want to point out, that as we look back on these four years, we can be grateful for the ways God has worked through this program to strengthen our relationships and deepen our sense of belonging. Building authentic community takes time, intention, and a willingness to open our hearts to others. While there is always more room to grow, we have taken important steps toward becoming parishes where no one feels like a stranger and everyone has the opportunity to belong. May we continue to build on this foundation, remembering that the Church is not just a building we enter each week, but a family of faith that walks together, grows together, and shares Christ’s love with one another and the world.
Are you thriving or just surviving?
We all have an insatiable desire for happiness. We all want to feel like we belong. And we all want to find friends who will walk with us through life’s challenges.
Four Parishes, One Faith is always looking for ways to help our parish become the-best-version-of-itself and for ways to help you become the-best-version-of-yourself. And one of those ways is through a new ministry called Welcome.
Welcome is a renewal weekend at the parish that helps parishioners discover what is missing in their lives and what to do about it. The Welcome Weekend will inspire you to:
- Find clarity and purpose in your life
- Form meaningful relationships
- Approach your life with renewed energy and a fresh perspective
FAQs
What is Welcome? Welcome is a weekend retreat designed to bring parish members together in Christ and emphasizes continued growth in Christian life. It is found throughout the United States. During the weekend you will find love and laughter, great food and friendship, and a renewed sense of belonging to your parish.
When and where do the weekends take place? Separate retreat weekends for men and women are held at Our Lady of Lourdes. Opportunities to attend the retreat are available every 6 months in Spring and Fall. See registration information above for specific weekends.
What happens during the weekend? The weekend will be an enjoyable experience for you. It will include some group activities and interactions, some prayer together, and reflections shared by members of the presenting team. You may expect an opportunity, in a relaxed setting, to hear Christ’s call to you and to respond to a deeper and closer relationship with Him.
Who may attend? Each weekend is open to 24 participants, who are over the age of 18.
Who conducts the weekend? 10-20 fellow parishioners that have been preparing for four to six months will conduct the weekend.
How long will it last? The Welcome weekend begins with breakfast, Saturday at 8 a.m., and ends no later than 4 p.m. on Sunday.
What should I wear? The weekends are casual, so bring your most comfortable clothing—jeans, sweats, etc. Layers are recommended.
How do I sign up? You may register by filling out the online link on our website at https://4parishes1faith.org/welcome/ or complete the form available at the parishes. Please note any special needs on this form.
Where do I sleep? We will be staying on-site at the retreat location (Our Lady of Lourdes). Accommodations for Saturday are simple and adequate. You should bring your own bedding (such as a sleeping bag or blanket), cot or air mattress, pillow, and earplugs. If you have any concerns or questions about the sleeping accommodations, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Don’t let the sleeping accommodations prohibit you from experiencing the Welcome Weekend.
What about my meals? Delicious hot meals, as well as coffee, cold drinks, and snacks, will be provided throughout the weekend. Special dietary needs can be accommodated.
What is the cost? There is no cost to you to attend the Welcome weekend.
If I have special needs or health issues, may I still attend? Certainly! Please note any special needs on your registration form.
Will I have to get up and talk in front of people? No one is required to get up and speak, although you may share your thoughts with a small group.
How can I be contacted in an emergency? An emergency number will be given to you before the weekend, which will be answered by one of the weekend team members. To avoid interruptions, please plan to give family members this contact number instead of your personal cell phone.
For other questions, feel free to contact: Roland Flasch at 715-736-3106