Philip Cote Testimonial, continued...

I had been thinking about (not praying about it) attending another spiritual retreat when the announcement was made for the St. Andrew retreat. (Not only does God hear our prayers, He also reads minds.) So, ok; sign me up!

Many, retreat participants talk about how nervous or reluctant they were about attending the CRHP retreat. I was excited and looking forward to it. I wanted and needed an uplift in my relationship with God. I was not disappointed! As I arrived with my weekend luggage, I was greeted at the doors by a couple of guys I had never seen before. I found later they were not from St. Andrew church. Anyway, they took my belongings and escorted my to the parish hall where there were more men, and a buffet table set up with a great breakfast feed. You know how we Catholics like to eat. We had great meals all weekend. But, not only that, we were entertained with great music, talks and stories from real men, courageous men, inspiring men. We had fun activities that both challenged and educated us. We had mass. And there were several surprises I cannot reveal to you.

The CRHP retreat exceeded my expectations. For me it was not a sacrifice. It was like a special event I would have paid big bucks to attend, better than a super bowl or a world series game (although there was no Budweiser). I had a great time. I ate good food, met some great guys, heard some good music and great stories, and was challenged intellectually, artistically, and spiritually.

Did it change my life? Yeah, somewhat. I've felt easier about meeting new people, I've found that getting out of my comfort zone and helping others has its own special feel- good rewards, I know why I exist; I know my purpose in life. But, most of all, I think, God and I have a new relationship. This Guy really loves me. Ain't that something!

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