The journey to Canaan continues all of our lives until we are united with Jesus and our children in heaven.
In the Entering Canaan Ministry, once each year, a “Mercy Retreat” takes place. It is a time for deeper healing, to refresh and renew ourselves in the Lord. Each years retreat carries with it a different theme, and is open to all those who have gone through healing from Entering Canaan as well as other ministries. The retreat is an opportunity to spend time with Our Lord, and deepen our faith through conferences, adoration, and the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.
While abortion continues to be addressed, the focus is on growing spiritually in a relationship with God, not only in regard to abortion, but in all areas of our lives. A new retreat is written each year, and women from the ministry share in giving the conferences along with the priest who is the Spiritual Director for the weekend.
The following is a reflection from a participant in this years "Entering Canaan" Mercy Retreat the weekend of November 7th in the Diocese of Arlington VA
Open Wide the Door to Christ
I recently attended a yearly renewal retreat which I have been doing since my first abortion healing retreat several years ago. I realize that healing is ongoing and to continue to grow in my faith is essential in that process. Each retreat has not only helped me discover who I am (a beloved daughter) but where I long to be.
My journey is one of stumbling and falling, opening some doors and closing others, learning to trust and abandon myself completely to God's will, and to discover our Mother and falling in love with her Son. This year the theme of our "Entering Canaan" Mercy Renewal Retreat was "Open Wide the door to Christ."
During this silent retreat we were called to entrust our life and healing to Him. Silence being the most critical component as it gives the opportunity to turn off the noise and distractions of the world. The silence then allows me to enter into the mystery that is God and to hear His voice. During the weekend I was reminded that I am dependent o God and being dependent, I become open to His love and mercy. Bringing my heart to Christ, I invite Him to help me. I reach for His hand and allow Him to walk with me in my journey.
Yes, I will stumble and fall along the way, but I cannot give in to discouragement and despair. The enemy is always lurking around the corner waiting to whisper in my ear that I am not worthy, he likes when I struggle in my sinfulness and abandon the thought of mercy. But it is in that moment of acknowledgment of my sins that I open myself to God's mercy and allow Him to look upon me with His love.
I walked in to the retreat with my mind cluttered with the craziness of life, and walked out refreshed and rejuvenated alive in the Spirit and love of God! -Andre Pearson Mev
