A Family Gathering

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A few weekends ago, I attended my first Inter-Community Pre-Novitiate (ICPN) Retreat at the Siena Retreat Center in Racine. To be very honest, I did not know what to expect, so I was nervous, self-conscious and yet excited to meet new people and to reflect on my journey thus far.

Our first evening began with a prayer and “get-to-know-you” activity, it was during that time that all of my fears and anxiety melted away. I felt that I was at a family gathering. From Salvatorians to Capuchins, and Viatorians, it was wonderful to meet, “the family.” I was also overjoyed by how beautiful and diverse our group is, with people from all over the world: Brazil, Iraq, South Korea, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Poland.  My spirit felt completely nourished and recharged as I was able to experience bits of the different cultures that were shared whether through stories, dance, or music! 

Our weekend was a time of reflection which allowed us to be open and honest about our transitions into this new journey, a journey that we are all on together.

Megan Graves, Candidate

Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin

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