Emmaus 2023

In-Person

A Retreat For LGBTQ+ Christians and For Family & Friends of LGBTQ+ Christians.

EMMAUS: 2023 is the twenty-fourth annual retreat for LGBTQ+ Christians at Jesuit Retreat Center.

LUKE 24: 13-35 tells us that two of Jesus’ disciples met Him on the road to the village of Emmaus. The encounter renewed their hopes and sense of mission. LGBTQ+ Christians continue to meet Jesus as they journey to the Kingdom. The Emmaus retreat is a time to encounter Christ and to share the journey together.

Come and meet other LGBTQ+ men and women, supportive and knowledgeable religious and parents of gay children. Mingle with a friendly group in a structured and non-structured setting knowing that your privacy is important. Feel comfortable to celebrate and share your journey and outlook or listen to others in a fun, reflective and prayerful atmosphere.

The Emmaus retreat will be facilitated by Sister Marian Durkin, C.S.A. and a planning team.

Marian Durkin, C.S.A., one of the founders of the Emmaus Retreat, is a member of the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine and has recently retired from ministry in her congregation. She still enjoys volunteering in a number of settings.

Why Make the Emmaus Retreat?

Comments from former participants…

"I am thankful and grateful for being able to experience the Emmaus retreat and I hope to visit again".

"Strong community feelings and bonds”

"The prayer times were beautiful and brought me closer to God..."

We are so happy to have as our guest speaker this year, Fr. Philip Bernier.

Sister Marian has known Fr. Phil since he was a child at St. Luke Parish in Lakewood and is very proud of his accomplishments as a Franciscan Friar.

Fr. Phil Bernier grew up in Lakewood and belonged to St. Luke Parish where he served on two separate occasions as a parish Music Minister. Fr. Phil was ordained a priest in 2001 as a Capuchin Franciscan Friar. From July 2016 until July 2020, Fr. Phil served on the Formation Staff of the Capuchin Novitiate in Santa Ines, California. Returning to Cleveland in October 2020, Fr. Phil now serves as the Pastor of Historic St. Peter Parish downtown, Parochial Vicar of St. Malachi Parish on W. 25th St. and as the Catholic Chaplain at Cleveland State University. Those team members from St. Malachi are thrilled that he is with us for Emmaus, 2023.

The cost of $150 includes a private, single room and four meals.

Registration