By Susan Chase, SCL
Wishing you a blessed and happy New Year 2026 from all of us at Marillac Spirituality and Retreat Center. We are pleased to announce that our new Executive Director, Nic Hermann, is joining us this month.
As the new year begins, many people make resolutions, sometimes dusted off and recycled, to make changes in their lives, to better their lives in some way. Resolutions have never worked for me. As I reflect on this, I realize that by January 15, the resolutions are back sitting on my prayer table collecting dust. I notice that these resolutions have, for the most part, been changes I feel I “should” make. They are not my deepest “desires.” They are the “shoulds.” They are good: get more exercise, lose weight, be better at staying in touch with friends and family, and pray more and pray better.
How do I get in touch with my deepest desires? What have I found that “works better” than resolutions in allowing me to move forward toward the God who always wants what is best for me?
The beginning of the New Year is a great time to take stock, to review the past year in the presence of God. What has brought me joy? When have I felt most alive? As I look back over the year, can I name the blessings I have received in times when my life was going along smoothly, but also in times of challenge, times of confusion, or sorrow?
When I take time to listen, to become aware of God’s presence in my life, I feel drawn to respond. Response from a place of gratitude for all that God is and does can move us to change. Good Conversation: He loves us (January 8), offers a place for conversation and reflection on God’s unconditional love. Also, January 18-25, we invite people to join in the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.
Consider joining us at Marilac Center for one of the following events:
Good Conversations: I have loved you
January 8, 2026
9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Marillac Assembly
Fr. Kevin Cullen
As we conclude this Jubilee of Hope, we reflect by using Synodality on the graces we find in the latest Papal Encyclical Dilexit Te. We know the path with the poor in living the Gospel. Knowing we are loved helps us welcome with charity and grace all in our world – as God reminds us, “I have loved you.”
Register via email here.
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity: One Body and One Spirit, as called to One Hope (Eph 4:4)
January 18 to 25, 2026
Marillac Center Website
Week celebrations at our local Churches
Local churches and ministerial alliances sponsor ecumenical prayer services during this Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. We invite you to pray with us virtually throughout this week. On our website and social media account, we will post short reflections and prayers for each day, highlighting leaders in the ecumenical movement. Also join in communion at one of the many local Churchs’ celebrations.
Good Grief: Darkness to Light: Grief to Renewal
February 7, 2026
9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Marillac Assembly
Sr. Judith Jackson
Persons grieving a loved one are invited to attend a day to explore loss, grief, and the
recovery of hope. Sister Judith will focus on understanding grief and its significance,
the connection of spirituality, and a deepening of faith.
Register via email here.
