With the fires raging at home in Chino Hills and the surrounding areas, many of us were worried for the safety of our families and friends back home. Looking at the sky in Riverside, you wouldn't have known that any fires were going on -- the air was crisp, the sky was blue, and the weather was beautiful. Personally, for me, it was an exercise in faith as I felt helpless while getting phone calls from home. My family and the families of several Cross+Trainers were evacuated, and all we could really do was pray for their safety and for those of the firefighters. By the grace of God, no structures were damaged in Chino Hills even though the fires came close to many homes. Our hearts and prayers are with those who lost their homes in Corona, Anaheim, Yorba Linda, Brea, and other areas... and also with the firefighters who have been courageously risking their lives to protect our lives and property throughout Southern California.
The retreat was physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually exhausting for many of us who staffed it, including myself. In my moments of anxiety and tiredness, I remembered the words of inspiration of many saints who've gone before us -- to offer up our struggles out of love, on behalf of others. The thought of possibly going home to nothing made me really think about what I valued in life. Material things can be replaced, and yes, I trust that if our houses were taken away the Lord would provide... but the thought of our families in danger was what truly scared me. I thank the Lord for giving me peace and strength... prayer truly helped us on retreat!
Here are some photos from retreat courtesy of Jeremy "Jibbs" Janairo.... more to follow as soon as more people submit them :)
Martin is very passionate about drumming.
Early crew -- Jason, John-John, Rachel, Tiffany, and Joshie enjoy the calm before the retreat teens arrive.
Admiring the beauty of God's creation at the foot of the Divine Word cross.
In God's peace,
Richelle
