"One Week A Shepherd" Participant Comments

2008

  • The most significant insight I learned was that once one makes an initiation upon a path, one must continuously choose it - it's not just once but a lifelong feat. This was an awakening for me.
  • Praying time (listening deeply) and the congregation's charisma and spirit are two things that I learned and can use in my vocational discernment.
  • I learned there will be challenges and struggles on your vocational path - but those struggles are there to mold and prune you - God is training us to become better through those times if you open up to him.
  • Nuturing a prayerful life is the foundation and fuel to living a healthy vocation.

2006

  • I feel so blessed to have come to this retreat. I learned so much and I'm happy to know that there are such wonderful women doing God’s work!

  • It was a great experience to talk with the Contemplative sisters and to hear about their part of the mission.

  • In any decision I believe it is important to hear different experiences – I got a sense of continuity from listening to Good Shepherd Sisters from all parts of the United States.

  • I got a real sense of what the religious life of a Good Shepherd Sister is from the talks and the outings.

2005

  • Words cannot begin to describe my experience at the One Week A Shepherd Retreat. What is most memorable is the extraordinary closeness and accessibility of God’s love and an enduring sense of mission. I was also struck by the variety of ways a Good Shepherd Sister can serve God. The most poignant element of this retreat is a heightened sensitivity to the magnitude of suffering in this world. ~ Cathy
  • This experience has led me not only to a deeper understanding of Good Shepherd Sisters, but a deeper knowledge and love for myself. I came away with a clear picture of my life and God’s will. ~ Andrea
  • I gained a whole new vision of God working in the world and living God’s call, especially in the spirit of the Good Shepherd. The week was inspiring, confirming and faith building. The week program was a perfect setting for that to come across to me. ~ Theresa
  • Amid a transcendental environment of nature and serenity, the Good Shepherd Sisters live active lives of service, prayer, community, and faith. Most salient to me was the faith-imbued laughter and pure joy that is evident as the Sisters carry out their daily tasks.
  • An aspect which impressed me deeply was the myriad variety of ways a Good Shepherd Sister can serve God.
  • The most poignant element in this retreat experience is a heightened sensitivity to the magnitude of suffering in this world. Whether a misunderstood teenager, a victim forced to prostitution, or voiceless families whose basic needs are ignored, people are suffering and they are dying. When we turn a deaf ear, we allow them to die. The mission of the Good Shepherd is to alleviate that pain and to bring hope in the image of Jesus.

2004

  • Everyone is so kind, understanding and helpful. I loved it.
  • A very wonderful program and very promising for the future. I will recommend this retreat and the Good Shepherd Sisters to those I see that special "something" in. Much love and prayers, thanks so much for your support and love.
  • The ministry experiences and talks about religious life were very helpful.
  • This retreat has raised many issues for me, but has been a wonderful way of gathering more information and making friendships that are invaluable and perpetual. And who knew half the things I'd learn about nuns and holy life, I feel almost enlightened now!
  • I had no idea what to expect but it was more inspiring & helpful than I ever dreamed of.

2003: What was most helpful to me!

  • Having the time for prayer and Eucharist daily. Having a number of sisters within different "ways".
  • Seeing the ministries of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd was most helpful ~ Collier Services, The United Nations, Center for Family Life, Handcrafting Justice, etc.
  • Sisters' stories and comments. Opportunities to speak with them individually.
  • The entire experience was helpful but probably for me the most helpful was learning and practicing Centering Prayer.
  • This experience has led me not only to a deeper understanding of Good Shepherd Sisters, but a deeper knowledge and love for myself. I came away with a clear picture of my life and God's will.
  • The topic of Good Shepherd mission was of most interest and the reflections and discussions about incorporating the mission of Good Shepherd in everyday life.