A Weekend of Joy, Prayer, and Deep Connection at Camp Weed

A reflection by Father Andreis

From May 30th to June 1st, twenty-six members of our Spanish-language congregation embarked on a very special retreat at Camp Weed—a weekend that turned out to be far more than a getaway. For many of us, Sunday mornings are our only time together. Several travel long distances each week just to worship side by side. This retreat was a rare and beautiful opportunity: three days dedicated not just to learning and prayer, but to truly being with one another.

As we settled into the peaceful rhythm of camp life, we quickly felt the presence of God in the simplicity of shared meals, spontaneous laughter, and the gentle hush of nature. We prayed Evening Prayer while watching the sun dip below the trees—a glowing reminder that God meets us in the quiet, in the golden hour of the day, and in community.

Our time together included rich Bible study, where we explored the structure of both the Old and New Testaments and received practical tips for reading Scripture with new eyes and deeper understanding. We also reflected on how to share the Gospel in our everyday lives, not just with words but through relationship, joy, and authenticity.

But this wasn’t all study and no fun. We walked the trails, swam under the warm sun, and even sang karaoke (some of us with more confidence than pitch—but that’s the Spirit at work too!). The best moments were often the simplest ones: sitting together on a bench, talking one-on-one, discovering new stories, and weaving stronger bonds as a faith family.

On Sunday morning, we gathered at Mandy’s Chapel for Holy Eucharist. With a breathtaking view as our backdrop and music led by the ever-talented Amy and Ian, our final worship felt like the culmination of every blessing from the weekend—beauty, grace, unity, and the unmistakable joy of being together in Christ.

We returned home filled with gratitude for Camp Weed and its generous hospitality, for our church support of this retreat, for Marcela, Pedro, and Carol’s leadership, and one another.

These three days reminded us that we are more than just a group who gathers on Sundays—we are a living, breathing, joyful community in Christ.

May this be the first of many weekends to come. ¡Gracias a Dios!