The 2008 Diocesan RCIA Retreats at Heartland Center in Great Bend, Jan. 26, and the cathedral in Dodge City, Feb. 2, attracted 139 participants.

With the theme "Journeys To Conversion," activities included reflection on the three RCIA Lenten Scrutiny readings: the Samaritan Woman (John 4:5-42), the Man Born Blind (John 9:1-41); and the Raising of Lazarus (John 11:1-45).

Sister Renee Dreiling, OP and Sister Jolene Geier, OP, from the Dominican Sisters of Great Bend, directed the 70 English-speaking participants, and the 69 Spanish-speaking participants were led by Sister Maria Elena Martinez-Sifuentes, MCMI, from St. Mary Parish in Garden City.

"I became aware of a need for quiet contemplation and reflection in my life, because of the presentation and explanation of Lectio Divino," stated one participant.

Other participants shared the following comments:

"I felt this retreat was very insightful. It was introspective, but still brought me back to what God is doing."

"I have learned to look more into the gospels. One scripture passage can mean different things every time you read it and take time to reflect upon what you read."

"I think this retreat helped me to realize that this will be a life long journey and that I need to certainly be aware of everything around me and my own actions. I enjoyed everything and actually think it was healing."