‘One with the Saints’

St. Pius X parishioners acclaim third annual retreat

The glow of the luminaries symbolized the retreatants’ deepening faith and their striving for holiness during the Feb. 7-8 retreat at St. Pius X during Parish in Coeur d’Alene. (Courtesy Photos/St. Pius X)

By Mary Stewart

For the ICR

The lighting was subdued, evoking a sense of quiet and anticipation in the parish hall of St. Pius X Catholic Church, where more than 160 parishioners gathered for the third annual parish retreat.

Deacon Chris and Mary Stewart carefully made their way to the front of the large room and announced, “Now that you’re all here, it’s time to welcome the saints to join us!”

With these joyful words, 200 handcrafted luminaries were lit, brightening the room with candlelight. Each luminary recalled the light of a saint’s life and the retreatant’s own desire to deepen in faith as they strive to become like the saints in light.

The Feb 7-8 retreat theme was “One with the Saints,” and all were invited to deepen their understanding and solidarity with the holy ones who have preceded us into heaven.

Saints Illuminate the Faith

The opening session began with a moving testimony by Father Len MacMillan, who shared his lifelong connection to St. Martin de Porres. His story resonated deeply, encouraging all to open their hearts to the retreat’s purpose: becoming one with the saints.

Father Len’s series of reflections on Saturday was a highlight of the retreat. His topics, “Call of the Twelve,” “Saints are Counter-cultural,” and “Pilgrims of Hope” were tied into the Jubilee Year of Hope.

Through storytelling and theological insight, he explored how all disciples can become “companions of Christ” by drawing inspiration from the saints.

Using historical examples, Father Len emphasized the relevance of their struggles, perseverance and unwavering faith. He reminded attendees that holiness is not reserved for a select few but is an invitation for all.

“We are called to be companions on the journey with one another,” he said, adding, “Church (“ecclesia”) means ‘people called together,’ Catholic means ‘universal.’ As a Catholic Church, we are a universal people being called together.”

The retreat also featured testimonials from two parishioners who shared personal struggles and faith journeys, reinforcing how suffering and perseverance can deepen faith and are nurtured by a loving community.

Parishioners Kara Michael, a young mother whose husband died suddenly in early January, and Chris Gummeson, a recent convert to the faith who struggled with addiction, both courageously spoke about the family and friends—living saints—who helped carry them in their sorrow and struggles.

Throughout the weekend, participants engaged in small group discussions that strengthened their shared faith experience. Aside from discussions, retreatants also had opportunities for silent prayer, allowing them to absorb the wisdom shared and listen for God’s quiet voice.

Some found themselves drawn to particular saints whose stories spoke to their personal struggles, providing them with newfound devotion. This year’s retreat was praised for its depth and inspiration, with one participant exclaiming, “The talks and reflection questions were very relevant and thought-provoking, and I now have a ‘special saint’ I can ask to pray for me in my daily life.”

A candlelit procession to Mass

As the retreat neared its conclusion, participants gathered for a solemn procession holding the saint luminaries. The glow of the luminaries symbolized their deepened faith and striving for holiness on their shared “pilgrimage of hope” accompanied by the saints.

For many, it served as a spiritual reset, allowing them to return to daily life with renewed faith. The impact of the retreat extended beyond the weekend, as attendees left inspired to integrate their experiences into their daily routines.

One retreatant expressed gratitude and said, “Thank you for helping us along our journey to heaven with our saint friends—and reminding us we are not of this world!”

The annual retreat at St. Pius X has become a cherished tradition, growing in both attendance and spiritual impact each year.

“This retreat was so well organized, spiritual, and moving. Looking back on our first one, themed ‘A Pilgrimage of Unity,’ I see how each year has been a continuation of that journey,” shared one participant.

“One with the Saints” is now a treasured memory, and many are looking forward to next year’s retreat.

One participant summed up the experience beautifully: “It felt like a two-day spa treatment for the mind and heart.”