Comments from guest priests

“A priest in my community recommended this place for a retreat, and I am glad I listened.  St. John Vianney hermitage is an oasis of peace in the midst of a busy world that is in great need of Christ.  It is comforting to know that you pray for us retreatants who come to rest in the Lord.  I thank you for your outstanding hospitality.  You have been very accommodating.” (a priest from Toronto).

“Dear Sisters, Peace to you!  What a joy it’s been to spend my yearly retreat in such a grace-filled, welcoming and God-filled place.  Thank you for saying Yes to a hermitage for priests.  This time, with your prayers, the God-filled spirit of love that I experienced and being able to praise Jesus through the beauty of His creation, has been a blessing. May many priests find His peace and refreshment for years to come!” (a priest from the Archdiocese of Baltimore)

“Thank you for a beautiful time with the Lord, a beautiful place, beautiful weather and warm hospitality of the Servants of God’s Love.  Thank you for your prayers and sacrifices for priests!” (a priest from the diocese of Saginaw, MI)

“Thank you for a wonderful stay.  I love the cottage and woods.  Your chapel is also very nice.  Thank you for stocking the cottage so well!” (priest from the diocese of Lansing, MI)

“Thank you for the week.  It is a blessing to be able to come here to enjoy the quiet and to pray.  I really appreciate the use of your chapel during the day.  It is nice to be able to go and sit with Him.”  (a priest from the diocese of Lansing, MI)

“It was a great joy and gift to spend my first days as a priest with you and in the hermitage.  I am so grateful for your generosity and hospitality on such late notice, as well as simply your presence in the diocese.  Let us keep each other in prayer, and I hope to see you soon.”  (newly ordained priest from the diocese of Lansing, MI)

and a year later:

“Coming up on my first year anniversary as a priest I am reminded of the time I spent here the days after ordination.  It was then what it is now–a great gift of peace and refreshment to my vocation.  I thank God for this beautiful house and you all for your prayers which without doubt have surrounded me this week.  God bless.”

“Thank you, dear Sisters, for this beautiful and welcome expression of your love and support of the priesthood.  My time here and with you has renewed my spirit to serve as our ‘eldest brother’ [Jesus].  This first stay won’t be my last.”  (priest from the diocese of Lansing, MI)