(Above) Benedictine monks harmonized with the huge pipe organ during Lauds and Vespers, to echo musical chants of praise to God throughout the beautiful Abbey church.

(Above) Abbey Church exterior.

(Above) Refreshed retreatants paused briefly at the conclusion of the Nov. 5-7 retreat for individuals and couples at St. Joseph's Abbey in St. Benedict, LA.

First-time retreatant is thankful for every breath

I must admit, I did not know what a retreat was, much less what to expect. After spending three days at St. Benedict I can honestly say that it was a blessing and spiritual experience that I will not forget, everyone should go.

The road leading to the retreat house looked serene, surrounded by trees, I knew I was in for a treat. Immediately I felt peaceful and tranquil. Taken in by the natural beauty and the smell of pine trees embracing the entrance to the Monastery, which stood out like a castle on the countryside, it was a feeling that I will cherish for a long time, foreign to the hustle and bustle of the everyday life that I am accustomed to. It was nice to put everything on hold for moments of peace.

Shortly after my arrival we all met at the retreat house, and it was great to personally welcome all my friends, and other fellow retreatants. Shortly thereafter, we enjoyed the Vespers, which is the chanting of the Monks in the Abbey. I felt in touch with God. Seeing the faith and dedication of the young Seminarians was inspiring, it brought me to my knees to give thanks to God for all the blessings he has bestowed upon us all. We take things for granted, and fail to stop and meditate to give thanks for our blessings, for all that God has created.

Each day we prayed, attended conferences, shared wonderful meals, and said the rosary outdoors. Walking through the grounds, taking in the fresh air, admiring nature, listening to the birds singing and the wind blowing, echoing the sounds of the Hail Mary in my heart, quenching my spiritual thirst.

Throughout the retreat we were reminded that it was silent. I must admit, I was not sure if I was ready to keep that promise, but I thought "If God brings you to it, God will lead you through it." And so it was. With no distractions the Word was absorbed just like water in dry soil. I needed that silence to meditate, to remind me what is important in my life. Which brings to mind Psalm 39:6. "We are merely moving shadows, and all our busy rushing ends in nothing. We heap up wealth for someone else to spend."

We should always be mindful that God gave us breath, and we should be thankful for every breath we take. Make time to give thanks.

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