As we bid farewell to January and reflect on the moments that made it special, one event stands out among the rest: our January 2024 marriage preparation retreat at the picturesque Vallombrosa Retreat Center in Menlo Park, CA. This weekend was not just about preparing for a wedding day—it was about laying the groundwork for a lifetime of love and partnership. Let’s delve into the highlights and insights from this unforgettable retreat.
A Sold-Out Success
The buzz surrounding our January marriage prep retreat was palpable, with all spots selling out a month in advance. This overwhelming demand underscores the importance that engaged couples place on investing in the foundation of their relationship. It’s a testament to their commitment to building a marriage that stands the test of time.
Embracing Diversity and Community
One of the most enriching aspects of our retreat was the diverse community of couples it brought together. Hailing from various backgrounds and regions—including the San Francisco Bay Area, Tri-Valley, and Central Valley—each couple contributed a unique perspective to our discussions. This diversity fostered understanding, empathy, and connection among participants.
Volunteer Couples Make The Weekends Possible
At the heart of our retreats are our dedicated volunteers, whose passion and commitment fuel our mission. We extend our deepest gratitude to The Hayes, The Meyers, The Tepmans, and the Escalantes for their invaluable contributions to the success of our January retreat. Their selflessness and generosity exemplify the spirit of service that defines our community.
Returning Home to Vallombrosa
After a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, returning to Vallombrosa Retreat Center in Menlo Park, CA felt like a homecoming. The serene surroundings provided the perfect backdrop for reflection, introspection, and growth. Being immersed in nature allowed couples to disconnect from the distractions of daily life and focus on strengthening their bond.
Rave Reviews Speak Volumes
Among the many highlights of our January 2024 marriage preparation retreat at Vallombrosa Retreat Center were the heartfelt testimonials from participants, whose words underscored the profound impact of the experience. Franklin T., one of our attendees, shared his sentiments, stating, “The most amazing weekend me and my fiancée could have asked for. It definitely deepened our love for each other and exceeded all expectations.” His words echo the sentiments of many others who found the retreat to be transformative and enriching.
Alexandra V., another participant, expressed, “My fiance and I just got back from the January 2024 Catholic Engaged Encounter Retreat and it was a life-changing experience for the both of us.” Alexandra’s testimonial encapsulates the essence of our retreat, highlighting its ability to foster growth, understanding, and connection within relationships. These rave reviews serve as a testament to the dedication of our volunteers, the effectiveness of our program, and the transformative power of love when nurtured in a supportive and nurturing environment. We are deeply grateful to all our participants for their kind words and for allowing us to be a part of their journey towards a lifetime of love and happiness.
Beyond the Wedding Day: Preparing for a Lifetime of Love
While the wedding day is undoubtedly a momentous occasion, our retreats emphasize the importance of preparing for the journey that follows. Marriage is a lifelong commitment that requires dedication, communication, and compromise. Our retreats equip couples with practical tools and insights to navigate the joys and challenges of married life.
Not Just for Catholics: Welcoming All Couples
While rooted in the Catholic faith, our retreats welcome couples of all faiths and backgrounds. The focus is not on religious doctrine, but rather on fostering open communication, strengthening emotional bonds, and nurturing a healthy partnership. Love knows no bounds, and neither do our retreats.
A Journey of Love and Growth
As we look ahead to future retreats, we are filled with gratitude for the couples who joined us on this journey. Your commitment to love, growth, and partnership inspires us every day. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and happily ever afters. Our upcoming marriage prep retreat weekends in 2024 are: March 16-17th, May 25-26th, and October 19-20th.
If you’re ready to embark on your own journey to a thriving marriage, we invite you to reserve your spot at one of our upcoming retreats. Visit our registration page (https://sanfrancisco.engagedencounter.com/reservations/) to learn more and take the first step toward building a love that lasts a lifetime.