On February 12 a very fervent, inspirational retreat was conducted in the Provincial House by Sister Judith Rojas, D.C. Those who attended were from Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Washington, DC as well as from Maryland. This retreat was organized by the Seton Shrine for the New Millennium. The theme of this retreat was a call to holiness as reflected in the life of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton which was characterized by permanent searching for God in the daily events of life.

Thirty-seven adults participated in this retreat which began at 10:00 a.m. and concluded at 4:00 p.m. Mass was celebrated in Spanish in the basilica and an opportunity was presented for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Seventeen children were cared for during that time so their parents could peacefully participate in the retreat.  

The retreat ended with the Jubilee celebration and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. 

Mutual reconciliation was an integral part of the Mass. Each participant left with the mission to return home, grow in faith, live the pardon and serve Christ in all who suffer.

The above group picture shows the retreatants who attended the Retreat given in Spanish. Sister Judith Rojas, D.C. who conducted the retreat is standing fourth from the right in the second row from the back.  

From a personal standpoint, my earliest Dutch/American ancestors date back to 1651 in New Utrecht, New York. In 1697, Garret Stoffles Van Zandt moved to Bucks County, PA, bought property and became one of the original settlers of Bensalem. To be able to go there, with my sister who visited me, and read documents in the archives of Bucks County is especially gratifying. I'll never have this chance again.

Do I miss anything? Yes, like pickup trucks in abundance, cowboy boots, cattle ranches, desert scenes, rocky mountains, vast stretches of sagebrush, and azure skies. But there is so much else here that I don't have time to sit and pine.

I have nothing but gratitude for the welcoming spirit that I have experienced here in Emmitsburg... in Maryland... in the EAST!!!

Sister Ellen Van Zandt, D.C.
Province of the West
Los Altos Hills, California

Docent from the West Central Province

Greetings! My name is Sister Virginia Dunker. I come from the Midwest part of the country with St. Louis, MO being provincial headquarters. I arrived here last August and will be working as a shrine docent for a year. Personally, it has been a very enjoyable time for me. I am constantly impressed with so many aspects of working here. I find it gratifying to meet visitors who come from all parts of the country including myriad ethnic groups, and young people who take advantage of this center to grow in their love of God and understanding of the saints.

I am amazed at the many repeated visits by the "regular" visitors who often bring their friends and family members in an endeavor to spread devotion to St. Elizabeth Ann.

The students at the National Emergency Training Center, who come from all over the country, take advantage of being in Emmitsburg to visit the shrine. 

Many of whom later return with their families.

Many visitors are surprised by the depth of their response to their visit - God does have a way of surprising us sometimes. Also, sharing the spiritual journeys of those who wish to talk about their experiences-some heart rendering and many quite joyous these are memories which I will keep with me long after I have returned to my province.

It is evident that this shrine is a spiritual oasis and center for many people whether men, women, families, young people or the elderly who are looking for ways to grow spiritually. To be of assistance in any way as a shrine docent in facilitating this growth is indeed a privilege. Added to this is the enjoyment I have derived from living in such a beautiful natural setting with the Blue Ridge Mountains nearby and getting to see snow again after many years of living in Texas.

Sister Virginia Dunker, D.C.
West Central Province
St. Louis, MO