Light Of The World Retreat
One of the most energizing programs offered through Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church is the Light of the World retreat. Geared toward Catholics interested in renewing their faith, Light of the World truly rekindles Christ’s flame inside each and every one of us. You’re invited to join us for the next parish Light of the World retreat!
Light of the World Evangelization Ministries
Light of the World Evangelization Ministries is the National Organization that allows the Light of the World retreat to be spread through out the United States, Canada and beyond. Light of the World Parish Evangelization Process (LOTW) is a powerful plan for evangelization and renewal within an individual parish.
Embracing the profound words of Pope Paul VI that evangelism is the “essential mission” and “deepest identity” of the Church, Light Of the World answers the call of Pope John Paul II for a “new evangelization” by empowering the laity of a parish to be evangelized and to evangelize others. The program reaches out to every member of a parish, no matter where they are in their faith journey, inviting them to a deeper relationship with our Lord and a greater knowledge of their faith, supporting them in their renewed commitment. The heart of evangelization is a living encounter with our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Light of the World Kerygmatic Retreat facilitates this heart-felt encounter through:
1. A fundamental proclamation of the profound Gospel message; and
2. Providing for a renewal of the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist).
As a necessary step in renewing these sacraments and facilitating a closer relationship with our Lord, special attention is paid to personal healing through Confession and Reconciliation.
Light of the World is not merely a renewal retreat. Rather, the process provides the opportunity for the retreatants to enter into Small Faith Sharing Communities that promote adult faith formation through prayer, spiritual edification and study of our faith. Light Of the World also provides a vehicle for reaching out to members of the parish who have limited or no involvement in their Church.
Facts About Light of the World
- In 2009, there were over 100 Light of the World Parishes throughout the USA, Canada & Australia.
- Over 6000 Volunteers served on LOTW retreats in 2009, giving talks, leading small groups, helping retreatants feel welcome with great food and hospitality, and supporting the retreats with prayer in the Adoration Chapels. Both laity and ordained have volunteered.
- Light of the World regularly receives calls from new parishes that want to learn more about this unique pastoral evangelization process.
- Light of the World must raise over $100,000 in 2010 to meet all of the parishes’ needs.
Click Here to Visit the Official Light of the World site
Small Group Communities
After attending the Light of The World weekend retreat, all participants are invited to join a small community group. Groups meet weekly for shared prayer, study, support and service.
The structure of the meeting is:
- Prayer and Praise (20 minutes)
- Sharing where we’ve seen Christ this past week (45 minutes)
- Study (45 minutes)
- Pray for each others’ needs (10 minutes)
The entire meeting lasts approximately 2 hours.
Currently, Blessed Sacrament has 5 active Light of the World small groups here in our parish.
Frequent Questions About Light of the World Retreats
Do I have to be there for all three days?
Yes, it is preferred that you attend the entire retreat as each talk builds upon the talk before it. Unless you can set aside the entire weekend, just wait until the next retreat is offered again.
Can I go with my spouse?
Yes, both men and women go together, so spouses are certainly welcome. However, if your spouse is unable to come, don’t worry, both singles and couples attend together.
Will I be able to go to Mass?
Yes, we will have Mass before the retreat starts on Saturday morning and again Sunday morning to fulfill your Sunday obligation. Your families will be invited to sit with you during the Sunday morning mass.
What do I need to bring?
Nothing but your “open” self. No need to take notes, no test given! Bring a pillow to sit on or anything that will make you more comfortable. Clothing is casual and comfortable.
Testimonials
“The retreat was the best thing that has happened in my life”
“Renewing the sacraments was great. I was an infant, a second grader and a fifth grader when I received the sacraments. So doing this now was very meaningful. This time it was truly MY choice and pleasure”
“The retreat strengthened me and I found inner peace”
“I have been forever changed by this experience”
“I really felt the love and sincerity and power of the Holy Spirit”
