To the Editor:
Last weekend at Our Lady of the Prairie Retreat near Wheatland, Carl Koch, retired teacher, program director at Franciscan Spirituality Center in La Crosse, Wis., author of 35 books, past editor of St. Mary’s Press and retired co-director of an ecumenical retreat ranch (among his many accomplishments), directed a weekend retreat entitled “Still Harvesting the Fruits of Vatican II.”
Carl’s experience as a teacher and writer, combined with the comfort of and peaceful atmosphere at Our Lady of the Prairie, provided a special retreat to a small group who attended. In his opening remarks Carl noted that had we really paid attention to Vatican II we may not be in the place we are at the present time in our Church.
However, his presentation and explanation of some of the documents of Vatican II greatly reduced my cynicism, enhanced my spirituality, enlightened my understanding, strengthened my faith and renewed the joy and hope of our Catholic faith.
It would not be a stretch to say that Our Lady of the Prairie Retreat, under the direction of Sister Kathleen Storms, SSND, is a gem in our diocese — a place to reflect, to be enriched and renewed in the pleasant atmosphere of the beauty of an Iowa prairie, and to enjoy the benefits of delicious, locally grown meals added to all the other blessings of a retreat at the Prairie.
Evalee Mickey
St. Thomas More Parish
Coralville
