Approximately 150 women from 21 parishes renewed their faith in “God’s Healing Mercies” at the annual Lenten Day of Reflection sponsored by our Cluster Parishes (St. Bridget of Kildare, Parma; Mary Queen of the Apostles, Brook Park; and St. John Bosco, Parma Heights) on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the St. John Bosco Bell Tower beginning with Mass in Church at 8:30 AM and concluding at 3:30 PM.
Presenters from Peter’s Shadow and the Immaculate Heart of Mary Healing Ministry shared insights from scripture into physical healing (Mike Ragon), emotional healing (John Smith), and spiritual healing (Mar Beth Gavin).
After the first presentation, participants shared their reflections on God’s love and healing by decorating their blank journal cover with artistic elements provided at their tables. They enjoyed each other’s creations and the opportunity to get to know each other better.
After the second presentation, the participants were directed to a series of 30-minute rotating opportunities based on their table number: lunch, confession, quiet prayer time.
When the women returned to the conference area, they found tea service and cookies at their tables. The afternoon consisted of the third presentation and a personal witness. The day concluded with “Everyone’s Way of the Cross.”
Many little “touches” made the conference room, the lunch area and the various prayer spaces conducive to prayer and peace throughout the day.
The attendees were grateful to the many people who made this day possible: the Cluster parishes who make this annual event possible; Father Matt Byrne, SJB Pastor who celebrated the morning Mass and welcomed the participants; the presenters; the SJB Spiritual Development Committee members, who served as planners and hosts; and the SJB Special Events Ministry team members, who provided breakfast and lunch, the six confessors, and Wendy Andino (guitarist/vocalist) and Melissa Barber-Tarolla (Vocalist and SJB Director of Discipleship) who lead the music.
We praise and thank God for this beautiful day!
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