No doubt you are signed in and waiting for your retreat to begin. “What have I gotten myself into? you may wonder. You are here because of the determination of one woman.

In 2004, a widow of 3 years was wondering why she was still struggling and yearning for a sense of peace. While visiting her son, she attended Mass where she noted an announcement for Joyful Again!. She returned the next weekend and attended the retreat. When she came home, her friends noticed a change in her. She was peaceful, settled, focused and spiritual. She began a relentless campaign. Enlisting the help of a friend, this woman contacted the Chicago Joyful Again Organization. Armed with material, they began the process of “selling” Joyful Again!

It was obvious what needed to be done, however, to convince others was the huge challenge. Questions arose, what makes this program different?

The Diocese of Orlando had an extensive program for the widowed. Would this program replace that one? How did this program start? Where should it be held? Finally, it was decided that San Pedro Spirituality Center would be the location for the Joyful Again! Orlando retreats.

To answer your question, you are here because of the hard work and dedication of many men and women. This program is a response to our universal call to holiness. Each of us are called to live the message of the Gospel through our individual uniqueness.

Jesus asked his disciples to care for the poor, the orphaned and the widowed. The Church has always welcomed widows and widowers since the early days of Christianity. Many became heroic servants of God. St Paula, the patron saint of widowed people, helped St. Jerome translate the Vulgate Bible.