Theresians to hold retreat at Villa Maria in Springfield
By DIANE SCHLINDWEIN
Managing editor

Theresians from Illinois and Iowa are hosting a retreat at Villa Maria Catholic Life Center on Lake Springfield from July 13-16.  This retreat for women is hosted by Theresians International, a global ministry for women with members in eight countries, said Vicki Schmidt, former executive director of Theresians International. 

The theme of the retreat is “The Little Way: A Journey Along St. Thérèse’s Path of Confidence and Love.” The main presenter at the event is Theresian Robin Hebert from Lafayette, La. She is a mother, grandmother, author, retreat leader, and spiritual director who brings to her talks a lifetime of love for St. Thérèse of Lisieux. Father Paul Chetcuti, SJ, from Malta will serve as chaplain. 

There will be an opening dinner at 5:30 p.m. before the first speaker talk begins at 7 p.m. on the evening of Thursday, July 13. Mass at 7:30 a.m. will start the days on Friday, July 14 and Saturday, July 15. Each of these two days includes three talks and three meals. On Sunday, July 16, there will be breakfast, one morning session, and a Mass at 11:15 to wrap up the retreat. 

The depth and breadth of St. Thérèse’s “Little Way” continues to have relevance for us today, according to Schmidt.  It is a simple, yet profound path to encountering Jesus. That’s why it is relevant that Hebert’s talks will be on the following subjects: A New Message; The Terrible Fault; Fisher of Souls; A Little Grain of Sand; The Way of Trust and Love; The Little Way of Spiritual Childhood; The Passion of Thérèse/The Passion of Christ; and I Will Spend My Heaven. 

The cost for those traveling from out of town and taking eight meals and lodging for the event is $380. Local commuters who will need registration and meals only will pay $260. To register go to http//:www.theresians.org and click on Events Midwest Regional Gathering.