Being a new pastor, Bishop Steven asked if I’d attend a pastor’s training workshop near the twin cities in Minnesota. Recognizing the goodness of ongoing formation, I gladly agreed.
So early last Sunday morning, White Horse and I hit the trail. Flying was an option. But that would’ve entailed traveling to a close airport, switching planes in Denver and renting a car to finish the trip. Simpler and more reliable to drive. Besides, diving allows you to see the beautiful countryside.
12 hours later we arrived at Christ the King retreat center in Buffalo Lake MN.
And true to Minnesota’s claim of 10,000 lakes, we sat right on the shore of the lake itself.
Beautiful, prayerful grounds, with trees changing colors.
It was a pretty intense five days. We engaged in about six hours of classroom discussion a day. A bit tough, as I’m out of practice. But very relevant information. The program itself was ran by the Institute for Ongoing Clergy Formation, which is part of St. Paul’s Seminary.
There was about 20 of us young pastors there. We’d start the morning off with a Holy Hour and celebrate Mass together around noon.
Midday Friday is when all the fun came to a close and White Horse and I headed back west. 1600 miles in total.
The reality is, we are all heading back into the fire. But that doesn’t mean we have to be consumed by it. Whether it’s the spiritual life in general, or pastoral administration in particular, with the right tools we can all remain peaceful and joyful in our relationship with the Father, no matter what our mission in life is or what the circumstances that surround us are. Special thanks to all involved in the IOCF for helping us be happy, holy, and healthy Catholic priests.
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