Denise Walsh

How can Denise be contacted?

Please call the Parsih Office at 651-784-3015 or through email.

Retreat Registration Checklist for Parents:

• Letter of Affirmation (see instruction below)
• Permission form
• Code of Conduct Form
• Check or cash

Dear Parents,

Happy New Year!  If you are coming to this site you are needing information on our upcoming retreat.  In some ways we treat the long winter very much like a retreat; We draw ourselves in and things seem quieter in the dead of winter.  Many of our teens have an anticipation and a little anxiety about what a retreat entails.  It is a time to get away, reflect and think about our relationship to God and Jesus.  To think about the change Christ brought to the world and how we can best follow that example in our own lives.  A retreat has a certain magic all its own because it is a chance for our teens to slow down, something that’s hard for all of us to do.  This time away allows us to reflect on the impact Christ can have in their lives. So just as Christ chose to ‘retreat’ to the mountains or desert, we know this is good for teens to take this time before confirmation.  Of course, it is not all serious business and there is plenty of time for a few laughs, music, games, etc.  Teens need to be aware before they go on a retreat that we’ll follow the example of Jesus and for one 24 hour period not bring our cell phones, ipods, electronic devices to our mountain top experience.  We’ve found that God’s voice is much clearer without earplugs inserted in ears or eyes fixed on DVD players or fingers texting others.  I expect parents to please enforce that with your teen.  In this letter you will find pertinent information for your son/daughter who will be attending the Year II Confirmation Retreat.  Our Peer Ministers are preparing and are anticipating a great experience for our 10th graders!

Another important aspect of this retreat is our affirmation letters.  We are asking that all parents write a letter to your child to be given to him/her on the retreat, brothers, sisters, grandparents, Aunts, Uncles or other important people can also be invited to participate.  Their Confirmation Sponsor would be especially appropriate. THESE LETTERS ARE SUPPOSED TO BE A SURPRISE – PLEASE TRY TO KEEP IT SECRET!  In this letter simply affirm your child and let him/her know you love them.  You could enclose pictures from their growing up or a favorite memory or quality of your child.  These letters are a very powerful part of the retreat weekend, so please write one!  Letters can be dropped off in the office or sent by mail but please make sure at least one of them reaches us two weeks prior to the retreat (Feb. 14) if you are assigned the February retreat.

To give you an idea of the importance of this retreat, most confirmands listed this retreat as the hi-lite of their 2-year confirmation process!  Please make sure to have your permission slip and code of conduct form turned in to the office with $60 and a letter of affirmation due now.  No one will be turned away if payment is a struggle.  Just indicate this on your registration or payment installments are fine too.   

Finally, if you are a parent who would like to attend this retreat as a chaperone for all or part of the retreat please let Denise know as we are required to have background checks on all those attending.     If you have any questions please feel free to call me at (651) 784-3015.  Until then,
          
God’s Peace Denise Walsh
Director of Confirmation and Youth Ministries