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DCCW retreat asks women to embrace call

By WYNN TOUNEY
DCCW

Then suddenly a woman who had been suffering from hemorrhages for 12 years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his cloak, for she said to herself, “If I only touch his cloak, I will be made well.” Jesus turned and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter, your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well. – Matthew 9:20-22

This is the faith that many of us will take to the retreat, “Embracing Our Call, Dignity and Vocation of Women,” which is the second session of Pope John Paul II’s apostolic letter, Muliens Dignitatem. Each woman who was able to experience the first part held last August has the faith that God will bless each of us in a special way. Each woman also has the faith that Gina Bauer of St. Paul, Minn., will direct this second session as she did the first part with such energy and enlightenment that we will continue in our challenge to more fully understand our vocation, our call, the dignity and blessing from God.

This second session is open to all, women and men. If you were not able to attend the first session, Gina will complete a review to help us all continue on the same page.

The retreat will be held at the Holy Trinity Parish, Corpus Christi site, 408 North 8th St., in Fort Dodge on Aug. 6, 7 and 8. Registration of $30 for each person should be sent to Julie Storr, 1104 First St. NW, Pocahontas, IA 50574, by July 31. Registration after that date is $45.

Overnight accommodations can be found at www. fortdodgechamber.com, which will give a good listing of motels. Or you are welcome to stay at the retreat site, bringing your own sleeping bag and air mattress. Showers are available on site. If you have any questions, please call Julie Storr at (712) 358-2065.

When asked why she is planning to attend this second session, Mary Ann Ruether of Le Mars stated, “I want to more fully understand the role each of us have as single or married, our role in the church and in the community. Gina did such a great job in helping us discern our role as women to discover that God has a special job for each of us.”

Rosemary Paulsen of Coon Rapids who attended last year commented on Gina’s energy, her insightfulness, her enthusiasm. Rosemary was inspired by Gina’s spirit-filled presentations and prayerful focus. The Mass with Bishop Nickless was also a wonderful closing.

Christina Roach of Fort Dodge stated that she really enjoyed Gina’s heart-warming stories to show how each of us can use our talents in our family, our church, the community and especially to help each other. Christina noted that Gina used this letter of Pope John Paul II to encourage all women to make important changes in their world.
Aug. 6, 7 and 8 are just around the corner. July 31 is the $30 registration deadline. Take this time for yourself. You deserve it. Have faith! Reach for his fridge. Invite your friends and join many other wonderful women as you discern God’s continuous wonderful plan for you.

Our Lady of Good Counsel, prayer for us as we pray for all planning to attend the retreat.