Church Sponsors Day of Reflection

SEA ISLE CITY – In the spirit of The World Meeting of Families and in honor of Pope Francis’ visit to the United States, Pastor Rev. Joseph Perreault and the members of St. Joseph Parish Council hosted a Day of Reflection in the parish auditorium Sept. 12 titled “Love Is Our Mission: Make Your Family Fully Alive.” 
The event included an abundance of fellowship highlighted by presentations from six parish families, each followed by roundtable discussions that allowed for a lively exchange of thoughts and personal expression, according to a release.
The day’s topics of discussion were: Created For Joy and The Mission of Love, The Meaning of Human Sexuality, Two Become One and Creating the Future, All Love Bears Fruit and Light in a Dark World, Choosing Life, and A Home For The Wounded Hart and Mother, Teacher, Family: The Nature and Role of The Church.
While adult parishioners were sharing ideas and discussing concepts that affect families worldwide, numerous younger parish members worked on crafts and participated in activities.
The event was yet another example of “the love for family and community that is alive and well at St. Joseph Church, which consists of many active members, including retirees, young parents and their children, single individuals, childless couples, and others who strive to be examples of Jesus Christ’s message of love for all,” according to the release.
“At this point in my life, I really do consider my parish my family, and I am thankful for the chance to spend time journeying with them,” stated Dolly Mount, a parishioner.
“It was a beautiful day and I got a lot out of it,” stated Yeni Herrera, parishioner and local restaurateur. “I wasn’t sure what the day would hold, but it went beyond any expectations I had. What I liked most was hearing families share their experiences, because it reminded me that we all often have similar experiences.  Everyone was impacted differently by what we heard, which was very clear during the round table discussions that followed each presentation.
“The day met all of our expectations,” stated Parish Council President Marie Peltier. “It was an exciting, inspiring, and motivating event that brought the Saint Joseph Community together as the Sea Isle City Meeting of Families.”