EMMAUS: 2006 A Retreat for Gay & Lesbian Catholics and the Parents of Gay & Lesbian Catholics
This weekend is a time to encounter Christ and to share “our journey” together.
EMMAUS: 2006 is the seventh annual retreat weekend for gay & lesbian Catholics at the Jesuit Retreat House in Parma. The retreat environment is one of acceptance that allows participants to be open and honest about who they are. A highlight for many is breaking into small groups where people can share their thoughts and concerns regarding personal, family and faith issues.
This year the Emmaus planning committee wants to invite parents of Gay & lesbian Catholics to participate in this healing, supportive weekend of prayer and sharing.
The annual Emmaus retreat is being presented by Fr. Stephen Krupa, S.J., Sr. Marian Durkin, C.S.A., and a planning committee of gay and lesbian Catholics. Fr. Steve is a professor of theology at John Carroll University. Sr. Marian is on the Leadership Team of her order, the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine.
This retreat has been designed as a celebration and deepening of Catholic Faith and sharing among the retreatants.
Emmaus 2006 is an extension of the programs offered for gay and lesbian Catholics by the Diocese of Cleveland. The diocese’s Gay and Lesbian Family Ministry states, “Baptized members of the church who are gay or lesbian remain full members of the Catholic Church and are encouraged, as are all Catholics, to live life faithful to the Gospel and to participate in the life of a parish community.”
As a result of attending previous retreats, many participants have become more involved in parish ministries. One past retreatant comments, “This retreat is a unique experience where I can share and strengthen my Catholic faith with other gay Catholics. I’ve learned a lot about my faith, my church and myself. I’ve also ended up with a great group of friends.”
Emmaus 2006 will begin on Friday, October 6th at 6:30pm and conclude on Sunday, October 8th after 10:00am mass. The cost for the retreat weekend is $145 per person and includes a single, private room and 5 meals. Scholarships are available. To register or for more information people should call 440-884-9300 or fill in the general registration form located on this website. REGISTER HERE