Precious Blood Companions
Companions Retreat at Marillac Center
Retreat Reflection
by Kansas City Companion Becky McDonnell
As I entered the property on which the Marillac
Center in Leavenworth is located, I felt the secular
world fade away. I smiled and remembered that even
before I had thought about becoming a Catholic, I
had experienced this same feeling as I had visited the
Sisters of St. Francis convent near my home. I thought
about the contrast, having just driven past the Lansing
state prison, which looks like a medieval dungeon, and
the beautiful grounds on which I now was. As I drove
into the visitor’s parking lot, I thought, “Wow—cov-
ered parking!”
The first two people I encountered inside the
Marillac center were Vicki Otto and Fr. Joe Nassal,
who greeted me with smiles and big hugs. I knew I was
with family who loved me. I thanked God again for
the privilege of being a part of this group.
Marillac center is absolutely beautiful! My room
was so welcoming and inviting. The food was very
good, with a wide variety. And of course, right across
the hall was a room full of snacks and drinks—leave it
to this group to always provide an abundance of food
and fellowship!
I really enjoyed the worship services. The liturgy
and music flowed together and I experienced some
new hymns—always a plus for a church musician.
And I had the privilege of reading the Old Testament
reading at our Sunday Mass—a first for me, since I’m
usually at the organ during Mass on weekends.
The vision and dreams which Fr. Joe shared with
us were beyond words. I sensed the power and direc-
tion of God for and with us. He has called us to make
a difference in this world. Yet, change is most difficult
for us all—especially when it comes at God’s direc-
tion—because so much of our environment works in
opposition to our goals and dreams.
The service of reconciliation was a special blessing
for me. Even after being a Catholic for over ten years,
I was still uncomfortable with the process. I did not
have a problem with the fact that I was a sinner—after
all, I was raised as a Baptist! But what to say and how
to say it to a priest. I always felt I stumbled over words
and thoughts and never conveyed what I really wanted
to say.
While I waited my turn to confess, I was nervous,
but comforted by the thought, “It will be all right.” As
I sat across from Fr. John Wolf, I felt only love and ac-
ceptance. I shared with him my feelings and thoughts
continued on page 13
November 2017 • The New Wine Press • 9