St. Michael Parish

Welcome 2.0

Don't let the name fool you:
NOT JUST FOR NEW PARISHIONERS!
It is a weekend experience that will change your life and the life of our parish! 

Upcoming Retreats:
Men’s: April 22-23
Women’s: April 29-30

Most people feel like something is missing in their lives. Welcome Weekends are an incredible experience that help us discover what that something is—and what to do about it. Run by parishioners for parishioners, this program is re-energizing parishes across the country.  We're offering the Welcome Program as a way to help you be the best version of yourself and to help our parish be the best version of the Catholic community you call home.

Men and women of our parish (and some of our neighbors from St. Mary in Newmarket) will meet on separate weekends. They come together to enjoy a time of sharing and fellowship in a comfortable setting, filled with love and respect. As an attendee, you will have the opportunity to hear your fellow parishioners—people you may see in church every week—share personal witnesses of how God has worked and is working in their lives. You will enjoy great food, great conversation, and wonderful fellowship.

The weekend begins on Saturday morning at 8:30am and ends on Sunday afternoon around 2pm. Your body and your soul will be fed in abundance throughout the weekend. Saturday’s activities will culminate with time in peaceful adoration of Our Lord Jesus Christ. There will be an opportunity for reconciliation, and then Holy Mass will be celebrated.

You will enjoy our 5-ish-Star rated sleeping arrangements in Cotter Hall, wake to a delicious breakfast, and then continue hearing beautiful, personal witnesses on Sunday. We will end with more personal witnesses before we part.

Please consider joining us for an upcoming Welcome Weekend, an experience to remember.

For questions, contact Deacon Eric at [email protected] or 603.772.2494 x211. To register, contact the office at [email protected] or 603.772.2494.

Who can attend?

Any registered parishioner of St. Mary or St. Michael Churches.

How much does it cost?
We offer this program to our parishioners at no charge.

Do I have to sleep over Saturday night?
The overnight experience is one of the most rewarding parts of the weekend. Rooms are set up for groups of 5-6 people for more privacy. When we allow others to experience our true selves, we remove the barriers that allow us to grow closer as Christian brothers and sisters. Let us never be ashamed of who God has created us to be. Everyone who was hesitant with this part of the weekend has expressed how happy they were to have been open in this way. 

How is the food?
The food is exceptional. We strive to meet all our participants dietary needs without singling anyone out. We do ask that you make us aware of your needs up front.

Is the environment safe?
Once all the participants and team are settled in Saturday morning, the doors to Cotter Hall are locked and signs posted of an ongoing private retreat, nobody is allowed entry unless they are part of the retreat. The talks and small group discussions and anything said by team members and the attendees is confidential and this is restated regularly throughout the weekend.

Please pray about attending, and register as soon as possible. Consider asking someone join you!