Immaculate Conception

Dear Parishioners of Immaculate Conception:

     In January 2001, I began traveling to Grand Coteau for 26 weeks in order to celebrate the Spiritual Exercises in Daily Life, commonly known as the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola. Last year, I stated that if I ever had a priest join me at Immaculate Conception I would celebrate the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola for 30 consecutive days at a retreat center. With the arrival of Father Whitney, this dream is becoming a reality.

     Beginning June 14, 2021, I will be residing at Saint Charles College in Grand Coteau in order to begin a 30 day silent retreat. Some have asked me how can someone remain silent for 30 days. Actually, I will be meeting with my spiritual director once a day and attending Mass daily. It will not be totally silent; however, silence is crucial in order to receive the fruits of the Holy Spirit.
I am looking forward with excitement as I prepare to celebrate the love and mercy of God. I wish to renew my commitment to Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, and renew my commitment to those He is calling me to serve, especially the sick, the poor, and the bereaved.

    During my absence, Father Whitney Miller will be celebrating the majority of the Masses. Father Aubrey Guilbeau will be available for funerals. Father Eddie Richard will be available for emergencies.

     I will be praying for you all and I look forward to returning in late July.

God Bless,


Father Tim


“Spiritual Exercises in Daily Life Frequently Asked Questions

What are the purposes of the Spiritual Exercises?
Ignatius offered this analogy: just as physical exercise has definite purposes, so do the Spiritual Exercises. Physical exercises are good for tuning up muscles, improving circulation and overall good health. Spiritual exercises are good for increasing openness to the movement of the Holy Spirit, for helping to bring to light the darkness of sinful tendencies within ourselves, and for strengthening and supporting us in the effort to respond ever more faithfully to the love of God.

What is the structure of the Exercises?
The makeup of the Exercises is rather simple. There are four basic phases, called “weeks,” although there is no fixed number of days for any of these “weeks.” The first week is set in the context of God’s creative love, its rejection by each of us through sin and God’s reconciling mercy in Jesus. The second week centers on the life of Jesus, from its beginnings through his public ministry. The third week fixes upon that very special time in Jesus’ life — his passion and death. The fourth week considers the risen Christ and the world which has been renewed in his victory.

What do I need to make the Spiritual Exercises?
– Openness, generosity and courage.
– A willingness to share with and listen to a director.
– A director who will help to guide the process.
– A Bible and a notebook or journal

Why is a director necessary to the retreat?
The director’s role is to be a helper and guide during retreat. You receive help by the director’s explaining the different ways of praying. The director helps by suggesting the matter to be considered in a prayer period and does not hinder God’s movements in you by imposing interpretations of Scripture or theology. The Exercises are, above all, a time for intimate contact between God and a retreatant.”

https://www.manresa-sj.org/spiritual-exercises-in-daily-life
 

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Together, we have weathered all kinds of storms over the past year and it’s time to for a new year!  We are thrilled to be making plans for the 2021-2022 PREP year!  Register online today by clicking on the picture above.

For more information or if you have questions, please call the
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