St. Francis of Assisi: An Enduring Model of Peace

Tiskilwa, IL – In the early 13th Century, St. Francis of Assisi lived his life in harmony with the Gospels of Jesus Christ and promoted a message of peace, forgiveness, and harmony. Francis’ teachings are as relevant today as they were in his lifetime, and appeal to all Christian believers regardless of denomination.

All are invited to the Willow Springs Mennonite Church Retreat, Saturday, 6:00 pm and Sunday, April 28 at 9:30 am to reflect on St. Francis and our lives.

In three sessions, we will learn about the life and times of St. Francis, the environment and events that inspired his message; we will look at the values and virtues that Francis preached to his followers; and explore together what Francis’ vision means for us in the 21st century.

Your guide in these conversations is Sister Glenna Czachor, OSF, a Wheaton Franciscan Sister with more than 25 years experience in group facilitation and retreat leadership, specializing in contemplative prayer and worship, scripture study, and creative spirituality. She holds a Masters of Pastoral Studies from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, and is a graduate of the Hesychia School of Spiritual Direction of Tuscon, AZ.

The retreat starts with a carry-in meal at 6:00 pm on Saturday.  Bring a dish to pass.  For more information contact wsmenno@juno.com or Cal Zehr 815-646-4819.  Willow Springs Mennonite Church is located at 16621 Kentville Road, Tiskilwa.

Retreat…it does a soul good!

Flower from the woods at Camp Friedenswald

On Monday, May 8, I (Michael) gathered with the conference ministers from Indiana-Michigan, Central District, and Ohio Mennonite Conferences for a time of retreat. We spent time dwelling in Word, walking silently in nature, eating together, sharing about our work, praying together and observing communion together.

This is an important time for me. When I was starting as CEM, I learned to know and trust conference ministers from neighboring conferences.  Leading well in the midst of shifting realities within MC USA and IMC today takes discernment. I am always refreshed and encouraged by my colleagues in ministry. I leave these times with hope and trust that God is indeed at work in and through God’s church.

Please keep our conferences – and all MC USA conferences and conference ministers – in your prayers.

AND, most importantly, make sure you set aside time to retreat. A week, a day, or just a few hours of intentionally entering into silence, prayer, discernment, and listening will do your soul good.