I had the pleasure of spending the weekend with 30 or so religious formation directors and youth ministers from the diocese of Lake Charles this weekend. It was an adventure getting there because of some transportation issues. I got there about 20 minutes before we were about to begin.

It is always good to be “back home.” While I am not from Lake Charles, it is awesome to be among people from south Louisiana.

I had never been to the St. Charles Center north of Moss Bluff; it’s very nice and the staff was wonderful.

Our theme for the weekend was Sabbath. I “stepped on some toes” as we talked about the issues of overwork, family resentment, and healthy tensions.

I got an e-mail from a person on the weekend thanking me for my talks but more so for the “informal” chats that happened along the weekend. That is always the best part—when the Spirit shows up among us as we share.

I also had my first taste of yoga stretching on this retreat; it was a positive experience for me.

Our hosts, Caroline D., Denise D. and Sandy G. were wonderful…especially providing me with CRACKERS.

I really enjoyed the deep and funny conversations of Saturday night, with one of my favorite get-to-know-you games, “either/or.” I learned so much about people then. The laughter was therapeutic I think for many of us.

I look forward to being back there in February 2006 for their youth conference.