On retreat: Jersey boys

I’m here in scenic Easton, Pennsylvania, not far from Allentown and Bethlehem, leading a retreat for the deacons of the Diocese of Metuchen. It’s a great group, and a lovely spot—although very very warm. (At last report, 95 degrees, not counting the heat index). We’re about half-way through the retreat—titled “Believe, Teach, Practice: the Deacon as New Evangelist”—and we have a nice break this sunny Saturday afternoon, so I thought I’d post a few pictures.

Here’s the Saint Francis Retreat House.

Stroll around the grounds until you feel at home…

There’s a gorgeous chapel.

The mosaic of St. Francis is something to behold.

So are the stained glass windows, depicting key moments in the life of Francis.

This beauty is over the choir loft.

Outside, there’s a lovely garden with the Stations of the Cross. The centerpiece is St. Francis, turned at what seems to be an odd angle—until you realize he’s facing the rising sun.

Yes, he’s ad orientem.

This statue of the Holy Family was outside my guest room window.

Since it’s so hot, we haven’t ventured outside much. Let’s go back inside.

Here’s the main lobby.

And there’s also a gift shop.

Statues. (St. Stephen!!)

And something I’ve never seen before: a Divine Mercy baby Jesus.

And this. Flavored popcorn.

The center recently hosted a retreat for icon writers, and some of their material is on display, too.

Including some works-in-progress.

All in all, we’re having a nice, restful time. More to come. Wherever you are, I hope you’re cool. The deacons of Metuchen sure are!