Christ Renews Us, formerly Christ Renews His Parish (CRHP), is a retreat for the men and women of St. Matthew. The parishioner-led experience is designed to foster a sense of community that will make this very large parish smaller and more manageable for you. Your faith will grow stronger; you will make new friends; and, your spirit will be renewed by attending a Christ Renews Us Men’s or Women’s Retreat.
We are excited to announce the dates for the next Christ Renews Us!
Men: Mar. 14 and 15, 2025
Women: Mar. 21 and 22, 2025
Why Should You Attend?
Parishioners of all ages (18 and older) should attend Christ Renews Us retreat. Whether you are looking to deepen your spiritual life, become a better version of yourself, make lasting friendships, or just be better connected to the community life at St. Matthew; a Christ Renews Us is for you!
Separate retreats take place for men and women and include participants of all ages – moms, dads, singles, seniors, and young adults … There is something for everyone at Christ Renews Us. If you have attended a Christ Renews Us retreat at St. Matthew before or at another parish, we invite you to attend again and bring a friend!
What Will Happen at Christ Renews Us?
Christ Renews Us is an adult retreat hosted and facilitated by parishioners, that takes place over a Friday evening and Saturday at the St. Matthew main campus. While historically a sleepover retreat, we have adapted our format to accommodate those who wish to participate but who do not want to spend the night. A powerful part of the experience includes unplugging and completely removing the distractions of everyday life, but we do not want this to discourage attendance. While we hope you will choose to spend the night, sleeping over is optional. Comfortable sleeping arrangements will be provided at St. Matthew Catholic School. Details and a packing list will be provided upon registration. All programming and activities will take place in the New Life Center, Church, and Parish Center gymnasium. Join us for a spiritual renewal that brings parishioners together through faith sharing, fellowship, and community building. The retreat consists of inspirational talks, small group discussions, quiet reflection time, prayer, Mass, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Schedule at a Glance:
Friday Evening: 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Our opening session begins at 6:00. Upon arrival and check-in, join us for a welcome reception to meet the Christ Renews Us team, mingle with fellow attendees, and enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres before you settle in for an inspirational evening. Our Friday night session will conclude by 10:00 pm.
Saturday: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Return renewed after a good night’s sleep. Our retreat resumes promptly at 7:45 am but a delicious breakfast will be served beginning at 7:00 am.
Saturday features inspirational talks, small group sharing, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, lunch, time for prayer and personal reflection, community-building activities, and time to foster new friendships and to grow in Catholic Christian fellowship. We conclude the retreat with Saturday Mass at 5:30 pm followed by a reception in the Banquet room. We encourage you to invite friends and family members to join us for Mass and the closing reception.
Healthy meals and snacks will be provided throughout the weekend.
*Please let us know if any special accommodations are needed.
Interested in attending Christ Renews Us?
Have a question or need more info? Contact Christ Renews Us ministry leaders, Bill O’Brien and Chrissy Wilson.