Back in the mid to late 80s – we were youth group leaders for our Lutheran church in little Portville, N.Y.

One of our trips was to a retreat just outside Clarksville where this man once stayed for reflection – Thomas Merton.

He had a deep connection with the Franciscans at Saint Bonaventure University just outside Olean, N.Y.

At that time we went there – the University was maintaining the retreat – they may still be doing this.

Our pastor Dan – who married Sherry and me – was deeply involved in the youth group – so much so that he and I and a doctor of the congregation – took FOURTEEN YOUTHS – 7 to 12th. grade – canoeing on the Alleghany River as a trail run and later a whole week in the Algonquian Park in the far north of Canada for a week.

We went to the retreat to perform a blessing in each room marking the sign of the cross on the beams and headers of the doorways in charcoal ash.

Our purpose for those kids in the youth group was to teach love for all humans.

Looking back on each and every one of them in their now adult life – I think what we wanted to get across to them was a success.

Thomas Merton spent some of his time in this area reflecting on life and left a lasting impression on all of us that went to perform that blessing.

Thank you for reading Papa’s World – my site: livinglifedoingitmyway.blog

TEACHING LOVE AND RESPECT TO OUR CHILDREN IN THEIR YOUTH!