Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

Our Lady of Good Counsel Retreat House in Waverly will host a 24-hour couples retreat titled “Family, Become What You Are” from November 14 to 15. The event is aimed at married couples who wish to reflect on their vocation and strengthen their family life.

The retreat will be led by Father Benjamin Holdren, who serves as the spiritual guide for the Missionaries of the Holy Spirit in the Family (MHSF). Father Holdren was ordained for the Diocese of Lincoln in 2007 and currently directs the Propaedeutic Year for new seminarians at St. Gregory the Great Seminary in Seward. He has previously served as pastor at St. Peter and St. Joseph parishes in Bellwood and as chaplain and religion teacher at Aquinas High School in David City.

The program begins with check-in at 5 p.m. on Friday, followed by supper at 6 p.m., and concludes Saturday at 4:30 p.m. Activities include Eucharistic adoration, confession, Mass, talks, time for silence and reflection, as well as opportunities for fellowship among participants.

Organizers describe the retreat as an opportunity for couples to gather with others seeking “joyful holiness in the domestic church.” According to organizers, “Fueled by Scripture and the wisdom of the saints, couples will be guided through practical ways to deepen their prayer life and strengthen their family as a community of faith.”

The Missionaries of the Holy Spirit in the Family is a Catholic apostolate focused on strengthening marriages through formation, community building, and encounters with God. Their vision is inspired by St. John Paul II’s call: “Family, become who you are.” The group aims to support marriages rooted in sacramental life and dedicated to sanctifying everyday family experiences.

Both overnight accommodations and commuter options are available for attendees. Commuter couples will have access to private rooms during breaks. Transportation can be arranged from Lincoln or Omaha airports if needed. Organizers encourage those facing financial difficulties to inquire about scholarships or parish assistance so that all interested couples may attend.

More information about registration can be found at www.goodcounselretreat.org or by contacting Our Lady of Good Counsel Retreat House directly.