Summer and Fall Update...from Kristin
There is so much to be grateful for! It has indeed been the further dawning of the dream the Lord had placed on my heart to support our priests. Here are a few highlights from this summer and fall... On-going Spiritual Direction: I have been able to serve priests through on-going and retreat spiritual direction, with an average of one new priest a month seeking spiritual direction. Grand Isle has proven to be a restful place, with many priests coming each month for a desert day of prayer and spiritual direction. I have also been available to meet with priests virtually. The 30 day silent retreat: On November 21, 2022 we concluded a 30 day silent retreat for two priests in Grand Isle. The priests had daily spiritual direction, guiding them through the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola. Both priests described the retreat as “life changing”! Sabbatical Program: We currently have our first priest here in Grand Isle as part of a 6 month sabbatical program focusing on renewal of his priesthood and contemplative leadership… learning to lead “with Jesus” not just “for Jesus”. On-going formation for New Pastors and Newly Ordained: This past summer, we spent a week with the newly ordained priests of Houma-Thibodaux and a week with the new pastors, geared towards anchoring them spiritually and in contemplative leadership as well as equipping them for their new assignments. We continue to meet with them on a quarterly basis for ongoing support and further formation. Fr. Joey Lirette said, “I can’t imagine beginning my new assignment as pastor without this week and the ongoing support from Kristin and Fr. Mark. I have not only learned how to remain with my relationship with Christ at the center, but I have also been given the necessary tools to step confidently into my first 90 days as a pastor. While seminary was a gift in many ways, it just does not prepare you in the same way.” Resource Development: We have continued to write resources to aid priests in their ongoing formation and assist them in gaining greater self-awareness. Resources have been used for multiple presbyteral convocations. The MPS Ministry House: By a true miracle of God, we were able to purchase and begin renovation of 194 Ludwig Lane, across from Our Lady of the Isle. This house will serve as the ministry’s “home base”; allowing space for: my office, our day programming, and for the hospitality which is so essential to the ethos of the ministry! I am in awe as I reflect back on so much that has happened and so much that He has done with ease! May God be praised for His goodness! Truly, much has happened and I remain convicted of the need for the ministry. Please continue to pray for our priests and for the ministry! God bless, Kristin
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