Norbertines of Saint Norbert's Abbey in De Pere, Wisconsin
Norbertines of Saint Norbert's Abbey
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Norbertines of Saint Norbert Abbey

Programs Winter - Spring - Summer 2009

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The Spirituality of Change

Through the use of humor, faith and psychology, this presentation offers spiritual insights and understanding as we face the changes and transitions in our lives. A perfect way to begin the New Year.
January 8 – Thursday 6:30-8:00 pm
Presenters:
Fr. Conrad J. Kratz, O. Praem.
Judy Turba, MSE
Cost: Free will offering

 

 
Water Exercises and the Word of God for Women

Join us in the Abbey pool for gentle water exercise, spiritual music and prayer: nourishment for the body, mind and spirit.
January 13, 20, 27, February 3, 10 - Tuesdays 9-10:00 am Session I
February 24, March 3, 10, 17, 24 - Tuesdays 9-10:00 am Session II
April 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12 - Tuesdays 9-10:00 am Session III

Presenter: Barbara Kratz Certified Lifeguard: Jane Berkovitz
Cost: $9.00 per week - includes class and daily use of pool

 

 
Dreams as a Spiritual Tool

Back by popular demand! Dreams figure prominently in many of the stories of the Bible and in the early days of the Church. Many Christians used their dreams to find God’s will for them and to understand how God was working in their lives. Dreams continue to help many people in their spiritual quest of discovering what is being asked of them in the here and now. It has been stated by Jerome Taylor, a renown dream expert, that “all dreams come in the service of health and wholeness.” This overview is a brief introduction in the art of working with your dreams and is intended for beginners.
January 13 – Tuesday 6:30-8:00 pm
Presenter: Fr. Conrad J. Kratz, O. Praem.
Cost: Free will offering

 

 
Bishop Aloysius Wycislo Series co-sponsored with the Green Bay Diocese (continued)
Re-embracing Vatican II: Its Continued Promise and Hope

For the vast majority of Christians, Vatican II brought much joy and excitement into the church because it was a great sign of hope and unity. Every pope from Blessed John XXIII to Benedict XVI has praised the council as the work of the Holy Spirit. This series, named after our beloved Bishop Wycislo (himself a council father) will examine what the council accomplished and why it is important to remember and celebrate Vatican II but more importantly to live it.
January 17, February 7 & 14 - Saturdays 9-11:00 am
Presenters:
Msgr. Jim Feely - Fear of losing the Spiritual Heart of Vatican II - January 17
Bishop Robert Morneau - Spirituality - February 7
Fr. Conrad J. Kratz, O. Praem. - John XXIII, Ecumenism and the Future - February 14
Cost: Free will offering

 

 
Conversations with Fr. Albin

How I met God: a perspective from a wise and thoughtful Father who has studied philosophy in Budapest, and theology in Rome and Washington D.C.
January 20 - Tuesday 10-11:00 am
Presenter: Fr. Albin Veszelovszky, O. Praem.
Cost: No fee

 

 
Just Write Poetry Corner

Poets Corner is a gathering of people who write poetry and wish to share their compositions with each other in a relaxed, non-threatening atmosphere. Themes are provided and writers have an opportunity to perfect their writing skills. The class is open to anyone who loves to write. If interested contact Fr. Mark Falcone, O. Praem. at 920.337.4352.
January 20, March 24 - Tuesdays 7:00 pm
Presenter: Fr. Mark Falcone, O. Praem.
Cost: No fee

 

 
St. Paul Series (continued)

Pope Benedict XVI declared June 2008 – June 2009 the “Year of St. Paul” with particular attention on the ecumenical dimension of his life and writings. Presenters will use a scriptural approach.
January 22, February 17 - Tuesdays 6:30-8:00 pm
Presenters:
Sr. Diane Bauman - Paul and Women - January 22 Thursday; snowday - January 29
Fr. James Neilson, O. Praem. - Images of Paul - February 17 Tuesday
Cost: Free will offering

 

 
Morning of Spiritual Renewal for Women

This wonderful morning of renewal for your body, mind and spirit will include provocative programs, opportunities for prayer and reflection, use of the Abbey pool/sauna, a delightful lunch and wonderful women--all within beautiful St. Norbert Abbey and Spirituality Center. A perfect way to spend a Saturday morning in January. For itinerary and program descriptions go to www.norbertines.org/day_of_renewal.html
January 24 – Saturday 8:30 am-1:00 pm
Sr. Donna Koch, OSF: Holistic Spirituality
What is Spiritual Direction
Sr. Shawn Madigan, CSJ: Women’s Official and Unofficial Church Roles: Then & Now
Sr. Judy Miller, CSJ: The Spirituality of Power
Fr. James Neilson, O. Praem.: Breathing Scripture: The Windows of St. Norbert Abbey and Christian Imagination
Bonnie Simonar: Understanding Self-esteem
Judy Turba: Rare Beasts and Unique Adventures: A woman’s journey to Zambia
Cost: $20.00 (includes coffee, pastries, and lunch)

 

 
The Shack with Fr. Roman Vanesse, O. Praem.

William P. Young’s book has an intriguing premise. Years ago, a father took his children camping and lost one of them to a man who has kidnapped and killed others. He has grieved since then. His marriage has struggled. Understandably, his relationship with God has suffered. He then receives a note in his mailbox inviting him back to the woods, to the shack in which his daughter’s bloodstains were found. The note, it would seem, is from God. What follows is a long and intimate conversation with the godhead which changes his life.

"The Shack" has never been advertised by its author. It was printed by a small, unknown press, and yet it has sold millions of copies and made it to the New York Times bestseller list--all by word of mouth. The book may not please some theologians, but it speaks to the heart of thousands of believers.

January 27 – Tuesday 6:30-8:00 pm
Presenter: Fr. Roman Vanesse, O. Praem.
Cost: Free will offering

 

 
Wednesdays for Women Series

Women's Embodied Spiritualities: Then and Now
Join us as we come to understand and appreciate a few of the many spirit-led women who helped to change some of the restrictions placed on them by the society or church of their time.
January 28, February 4, 11, 18 - Wednesdays 9:30-10:30 am
Perpetua (2nd century); Women martyrs of Salvador (20th century) – January 28
Gertrude of Helfta; Gabriella Bossis – February 4
Julian of Norwich; Edwina Gately – February 11
Sojourner Truth; Dorothy Day – February 18
Presenter: Sr. Shawn Madigan, CSJ
Cost: Free will offering

Guided Spirituality
Many of us seek to deepen our relationship with God. Join us as we reflect upon spirituality in a guided way and discover different forms of prayer conducive to our personality types.
January 28 February 4, 11, 18 - Wednesdays 10:30-11:30 am OR 6:30-7:30 pm
Personalities and Prayer – January 28
Guided Meditation – February 4
Prayer of the Church: Lectio Divina – February 11
Life as Prayer – February 18
Presenter: Sr. Judy Miller, CSJ
Cost: Free will offering

 

 
Introduction to T'ai Chi

T'ai Chi, often referred to as meditation in motion, is a series of slow, continuous relaxed movements done with care and attention. Movements are without strain and provide exercise and toning for every part of the body. T’ai Chi reduces stress, improves concentration and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. In fact, T’ai Chi has been known to slow the aging process, lower blood pressure, strengthen muscle and reduce anxiety.
January 29 - Thursday 6:30-8:00 pm
Instructor: Eric Peters, Asian Bodywork Therapist
Cost: No fee for this introductory course

 

 
Human Development (please read books prior to program)

Join Fr. Mark Falcone as he discusses the classics of human development: Abraham Maslow’s Toward a Psychology of Being, Lawrence Kohlberg’s Six Stages of Moral Development, and Viktor Frankel’s Man’s Search for Meaning.
February 3 – Tuesday 7:00-9:30 pm
Presenter: Fr. Mark Falcone, O. Praem.
Cost: $20.00

 

 
Dreams II

A continuation of the popular “Introduction to Dreams Workshop” offered in 2008 and again in January 2009, Dreams II will begin with a brief overview of dreams followed by methods of recording, listening, sharing and discerning the hidden messages contained in them. Please come with a dream to share. Participants in the Dreams II workshop should have attended the Dreams I presentation, if at all possible.
February 3 – Tuesday 6:30-8:00 pm
Presenters:
Sr. Donna Koch, OSF
Fr. Conrad J. Kratz, O. Praem.
Cost: Free will offering

 

 
Coffee and Conversation with Norbertines

Join us for an hour of stimulating conversation and coffee with one of the following Norbertines who will discuss the joys and challenges he has encountered in his vocation. The hour will also include time for your questions regarding personal faith, the church and society today.
February 5, April 30, May 21 – Thursdays 10:00-11:00 am
Presenters:
Fr. Gery Meehan, O. Praem. Reflections of Priesthood - February 5
Abbot Jerome Tremel, O. Praem.
What (would, could, should) the Church look like in the 21st century - April 30
Abbot Gary Neville, O. Praem. An Abbot’s Perspective - May 21
Cost: No fee

 

 
Healing Breath

With every breath we take, we have the opportunity to enhance our body’s natural ability to heal itself. By filling our lungs to their full capacity, we can slow down our heart rate and increase the oxygen concentration in our blood. It is with these, and other benefits that make the simple act of breathing so crucial to our bodies’ health and well being.

In this class, you will learn breathing techniques, proper posture and acupressure points used to open the lungs, relax the body and calm the mind.

February 10 – Tuesday 6:30-8:00 pm
Presenter: Eric Peters, Asian Bodywork Therapist
Cost: No fee for this introductory course

 

 
Book Discussions - Please read the books prior to the discussion dates.

The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
This book is a moving memoir of a wandering, poor, destitute girl who came from a family with an eccentric father. With unconditional love, she triumphed against many odds to grow up and find her own successful life.

Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World by Joanna Weaver
The life of women today is not much different from Mary and Martha in the New Testament. Like Mary, we want to spend time with the Lord, but with today’s busy schedules we are more like Martha. Come and see how we can become both Martha and Mary and spend time with God in today’s world.
February 12 – Thursday 10:30-11:30 am The Glass Castle
May 14 – Thursday 10:30-11:30 am Having a Mary’s Heart in a Martha World
Facilitator: Jane Berkovitz
Cost: No fee

 

 
Kindness: What difference does it make?

Based on the book “The Hidden Messages in Water”, Sr. Donna will discuss the studies by Japanese scientist Masaru Emoto and the impact that words have not only on the human spirit but also on the earth and our personal health. Sr. Donna will suggest ways in which we can all be agents of transformation in our “little corner of the world.” Emoto uses the molecular structure of water as the basis for his experiments and teachings and Sr. Donna will demonstrate the impact that words have on water through the formation of crystals. This will be done through the use of music, food, verbal and non-verbal communication.
February 16 – Monday 9:00-10:30 am
Presenter: Sr. Donna Koch, OSF
Cost: Free will offering

 

 
Male Spirituality and Your Life...Explore It, Live It, Give It!

An introductory workshop for men to explore their personal identity as a man, to live consciously in masculine culture and to give of one’s self as a spiritual person. Facilitator Bill Mathias with American Foundation of Counseling Services, will combine his knowledge of psychology, theology and men’s spirituality with life experiences, framed in the Christian context. Bill holds masters degrees in social work and theology with expertise in men’s spirituality.
February 21 – Saturday 8:30 am-1:00 pm
Facilitator: Bill Mathias, MSSW, MTS
Cost: $20.00 - includes refreshments and lunch

 

 
Lenten Series - People at the foot of the cross: the ongoing dying and rising of Christ

Our lenten series begins with Fr. James Neilson’s “Praying the Stations of the Cross” program. Fr. Neilson, St. Norbert College art professor, will blend the traditional images of “The Stations of the Cross” with works of art drawn from both religious and secular cultures, suggesting both the inclusive and compatible nature of recognizing the body of Christ within our world today.

The following four presentations will focus on the people who stood around the cross of Christ on that first Good Friday. The people at the foot of the cross brought their grief and sorrows to be held there by God’s own grief and suffering. They stand for each of us. We walk with Christ as they did and in so doing we are moved more deeply to the passion, death and resurrection of the Lord which changed their lives and subsequently can change ours.

February 28, March 7, 14, 21, 28 - Saturdays 9:00-11:00 am
Presenters:
Fr. James Neilson, O. Praem. February 28
Fr. Tim Shillcox, O. Praem. March 7
Fr. John Bostwick, O. Praem. March 14
Sr. Donna Koch, OSF March 21
Msgr. Jim Feely March 28
Cost: Free will offering

 

 
War Requiem

Benjamin Britton, renown English composer of the 20th century, has taken the liturgy of the Requiem Mass and created a monumental work incorporating the poetry of Alfred Owen, a World War I poet who was killed the day an armistice was reached. Derek Jarman’s War Requiem, a dialogue free film, is a violent, horrifying and ultimately inspiring masterpiece. This is a listening experience never to be forgotten.
March 3 – Tuesday 7:00-9:00 pm
Presenter: Fr. Mark D. Falcone, O. Praem.
Cost: Free will offering

 

 
Soup and the Soul: Spring Series

Faith and Paint: Scripture and Human Experience as seen through the paintings of Vincent van Gogh. A passionate man, first as an evangelical pastor and then as an artist, Van Gogh’s faith - implicit and explicit - is revealed in his art. We will explore ten examples of his “homilies on canvas” over a simple lenten lunch letting Vincent preach the Gospel to us in Lent 2009.
March 4, 11, 18, 25, April 1 - Wednesdays 11:45 am-12:45 pm
Presenter: Fr. Tim Shillcox, O. Praem.
Cost: $7.00 per session - includes lunch

 

 
Just Faith Just Matters

Climate change: Impact and Response
God’s creation cries for justice. This eight week study circle session will help today’s Christian connect
awareness to climate change, Catholic social teaching, and one’s own life. The series is part of
JustFaith, a national Catholic adult faith formation ministry based on the social justice tradition of the
Church.
March 8, 22, 29, April 5, 26, May 3, 10, 24 - Sundays 6:30-9:00 pm
Presenter: Br. Steve Herro, O. Praem.
Cost: $10.00 for materials
Registration deadline: January 25

 

 
Interlace

Join award winning Irish poet Kathy Mallon and accomplished harpist Cheryl Murphy for a wonderful evening that weaves together original contemporary poetry with traditional Irish harp tunes.
March 10 - Tuesday 7:00 pm
Presenters: Kathy Mallon, Cheryl Murphy
Cost: Free will offering

 

 
Option for the Poor Series – with Fr. Brendan McKeough, O. Praem.

Join Fr. Brendan for this provocative series that puts flesh on St. Paul’s words “Have that mind in you that Christ Jesus had; find the heart of Christianity at work in economic and political question.” The sessions also will explore, as G. K. Chesterton wrote, “how material spirituality really is.” Fr. Brendan has served 55 years as a Norbertine Father during which time he taught economics at St. Norbert College for 25 years and spent 13 years in Mexico and Guatemala ministering to the poor and working in retreat centers. He continues to serve in Hispanic ministry at St. Willebrord Parish.
March 12, 19, 26 – Thursdays 6:30-8:00 pm
How to think like a Christian - March 12
Politics and economics as if people mattered - March 19
Religion and spirituality as if people mattered - March 26
Presenter: Fr. Brendan McKeough, O. Praem.
Cost: Free will offering

 

 
Abbey Art Tour and Wine Reception

Within St. Norbert Abbey are beautiful works of art and historical artifacts. Join Abbey artists Fr. Stephen Rossey, O. Praem. and Fr. James Neilson, O. Praem. for a tour of rarely seen sacred treasures that reveal both the history of the Abbey Church as well as the history of the Order in De Pere. Objects from the permanent collection of the Abbey, as well as those items kept in the archives, museum, sacristy, and Abbey library will be examined. Afterwards, please join Fr. Rossey and Fr. Neilson for a wine and cheese reception in the Killeen Room. Limited to 15.
April 28 – Tuesday 6:30 pm
Presenters: Fr. James Neilson, O. Praem., Fr. Stephen Rossey, O. Praem.
Cost: $15.00 includes wine and cheese reception

 

 
Celebrating Your Life’s Work

Celebrate the feast day of St. Joseph the Worker (May 1) by visiting the National Shrine at the Abbey. Learn about the spiritual dimensions and value of your life’s work by examining strategies for discerning your purpose in life, making changes when needed, generating enthusiasm for work and finding peace and joy in your daily labors. Jim Smits, a licensed social worker, has extensive experience working with individuals, teams and companies on job satisfaction, conflict resolution, career development and transition.
April 30 – Thursday 6:30-8:00 pm
Presenter: Jim Smits, CICSW
Cost: Free will offering

 

 
Conversations with Fr. Albin

Tension-free living: a perspective from a wise and thoughtful Father who has studied philosophy in Budapest, and theology in Rome and Washington D.C.
May 12 – Tuesday 10-11:00 am
Presenter: Fr. Albin Veszelovszky, O. Praem.
Cost: No cost

 

 
Wednesdays for Women Series II

Mary in Scripture and Tradition
Mary appears in relatively few New Testament texts, yet her theological importance for the Church has continued to evolve. She is seen as the embodiment of Jewish wisdom and the perfect disciple of Jesus. In this month of Mary, join us as we learn more about this woman of great faith.

May 20 - Wednesday 9:30-10:30 am
May 27 - Wednesday 6:30-7:30 pm (same program as May 20)
Presenter: Sr. Shawn Madigan, CSJ
Cost: Free will offering

Mary and the Prayer Life of the Church
Scripture provides the basis for familiar Marian prayers. Festivals and hymns about Mary expand her meaning and mission in the life of the Church. Titles of Mary in feasts and litanies complement those of Jesus and lead to Him. This series will open new possibilities for including Mary in one’s prayer life.

May 20 - Wednesday 6:30-7:30 pm
May 27 - Wednesday 9:30-10:30 am (same program as May 20)
Presenter: Sr. Judy Miller, CSJ
Cost: Free will offering

 

 
Walking a Sacred Path: The Prayer Labyrinth

The labyrinth is an ancient symbol of life’s journey, a path of prayer for all people seeking the divine. It is a tool of integration between mind and body and can be experienced as a personal pilgrimage to our inner center, helping us find new insights and inner peace. Walking the labyrinth helps us to quiet the mind and listen to the longing of the soul. Sr. Donna will begin this experiential evening with information about the labyrinth followed by the actual walking of this meditative path.
May 21 - Thursday 6:00-7:30 pm
Presenter: Sr. Donna Koch, OSF
Cost: Free will offering

 

 
Abbey Tours

Join the Norbertine community for Sunday Mass followed by coffee and rolls and a tour of St. Norbert Abbey with its renown windows, sacred artifacts, cloister gardens, and noted architectural features. Fr. Stephen Rossey, artist and historian, will offer insightful commentary as he guides participants through the Abbey complex. While there is no fee, pre-registration is required.
May 24, 31 June 28 - Sundays
10:00 am Mass followed by coffee, rolls and Abbey tour
Presenter: Fr. Stephen Rossey, O. Praem.
Cost: No fee but registration is required

 

 
Day of Renewal: Nourishing Your Body, Mind and Spirit

Select the components that you believe would be most nourishing to renew your weary body and soul: talking with a spiritual guide, a massage, a quiet room of your own, a few laps in the Abbey swimming pool, walking on the tranquil Abbey grounds, praying with the Norbertine Community or simply sitting in the magnificent Abbey church or cloister garden.

While you do need to reserve your day, most activities do not need to be scheduled ahead of time. The renewal sessions that need pre-registration (and are reserved separately) are listed below with the corresponding fee.

Cost: $15.00
Includes: private room, lunch, refreshments, as well as all of the Abbey amenities

The following resources are available at the Abbey, but must be scheduled individually. Please call the corresponding numbers if you wish to schedule an appointment.
Massage $60.00 - Eric Peters, Massage Therapist - 920.366.0899
Spiritual Guidance $35.00 (see page 12 for names and phone numbers)

See Day of Renewal Page for More Information
Day of Renewal Registration Form

 

 
please note...

Pre-registration is appreciated for all programs.

Anyone who wishes to participate in our programs should be able to do so.
The Norbertine Center will accept a donation within your means should you be unable to pay the suggested fee.

Prior to all Saturday morning programs, participants are invited to attend 8:30 am liturgy followed by coffee and rolls.

Religion Certification hours are available for most of our programs and retreats. Please call the Norbertine Center for Spirituality for more information or e-mail us at norbertinecenter@yahoo.com.

 

 
Click Here for Our Registration Form
 
Norbertines of Saint Norbert Abbey