Lenten retreat inspires at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church

More than 60 people attended a one-day Lenten retreat on Saturday, March 2, at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in West Dundee. It included small group breakouts, Reconciliation, adoration, with lunch and dinner.

The retreat focused on “In His Embrace” which was based on the book “The Return of the Prodigal Son” by Henry Nouwen and Rembrandt’s painting by the same name.

The four speakers, Rev. John McNamara, pastor; Rev. Matthew Camaioni, parochial vicar; along with parish Deacons Hank Schmalen and Bill Whitehead; who each took a character from the book.

“We spoke about how we all can sometimes BE the son, the older brother, an onlooker or even the father and how God the Father always forgives and welcomes us back,” said Deacon Schmalen. “From the time I read this book more than 20 years ago I had thought it was great retreat material and was finally able to see that happen.”

The day included a witness by a parishioner following each speaker. One participant spoke about how for a long time he was just an “onlooker” at Mass, sitting in the back of the church, and thinking God could never forgive him.

“But,” adds Deacon Schmalen, “gradually, through the intervention from fellow parishioners and God, he began to move forward both physically and spiritually. Each of our participants was given a copy of the book as they left. It was a spiritually uplifting day.”

St. Catherine of Siena Church is located at 845 W. Main St. in West Dundee. St. Mary Church is located at Matteson Street and Galligan Road in Gilberts.

For more information, visit www.stcatherinechurch.com, or call the St. Catherine of Siena parish office at (847) 426-2217. Follow facebook.com/StCatherineChurchOfficial.