Holy Name Society at St. Alfonso Redemptorist Retreat House 2023
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In July, a group of men from the STA Holy Name Society attended the Redemptorist San Alfonso Retreat House in West Long Branch, N.J. This year’s theme was "Seeing our Story in God's Story: Formed by Word and Sacrament."
We heard about the importance of the stories of our lives - our families, our faith, our churches. We learned about seeing ourselves in the Bible's stories and using Lectio Divina to internalize and reflect on scripture: a method of prayer that will be helpful in our Parish Council’s high priority for the foundation of additional STA prayer groups and Bible study. We shared stories of past Holy Name Society Members, celebrating their lives, and various ministries and events at Saint Thomas over the years.
It is important to share stories - we find a connection in stories. We find that we are not all that different from each other, and we find friendship, support, and valuable lessons when we share stories about ourselves and our loved ones. There were over 50 men from other dioceses in N.J. who traded creative practical ways (“stories”) to envision enriching parish life back home.
St. Alfonso’s is an “oasis” for charging a person’s spiritual “batteries” for the challenging work in the parish ministries in the months ahead. That’s why many attendees come back yearly. Charles Collins received an award for participating in 35 retreats at San Alfonso.
The STA Holy Name Society has been in existence since the founding of the parish. The Society promotes prayer, Eucharistic Adoration and collaboration with other parish ministries in performing the Corporal and the Spiritual Works of Mercy, to include practical programming on vulnerable persons and their needs. Click here to visit our ministry page and learn more.
For decades, the HNS has been sponsoring the annual weekend retreat at San Alfonso Retreat House, situated on eight beautiful acres overlooking the ocean. Its outdoor shrines, prayer garden, beautiful chapels, and comfortable accommodations have been “Holy Ground” for laity, religious, and clergy for 98 years.
We know from scripture that Jesus frequently withdrew in prayer for periods of time to remain centered in His public ministry. We need to follow His example. You are called to find a regular special place for that near you: a room, a park, a pew in Eucharistic Adoration. We recommend trying to attend a retreat house if you can, even if it’s only once in a lifetime.
To learn more about the Holy Name Society or inquire about membership, click here to visit their ministry page.
