Infertility is a heavy burden most couples don’t expect to carry. It can affect your marriage, your relationship with family and friends, and your relationship with God. Infertility often feels like a long and lonely path. But you are not alone. Wherever you are on the path of infertility, or in the experience of pregnancy loss, there is a community here, built on faith in Christ and His good plan of fruitfulness for each one of us.
ABOUT THE RETREAT
St. Gabriel Catholic Church and Springs in the Desert are grateful to partner in supporting couples carrying the cross of infertility. Come with your spouse or on your own to be supported, hear inspiring reflections from the Springs in the Desert team, receive practical suggestions for strengthening your relationship with God and your spouse, and experience friendship with others on this same path. The retreat will include time for prayer in Adoration and an opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation and attend the Vigil Mass. It is an honor to walk with you.
Saturday, October 21
8:30 am - 4:15 pm
at St. Gabriel Catholic Church
3016 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC 28211
Come with your spouse or on your own
$50/couple or $25/individual
Includes light breakfast and lunch
Schedule
8:30 am: Check in - 1st floor of the Ministry Center (the building along Providence Rd.)
9:00 am: Mass in the church
9:30 am: Program begins
4:15 pm: Program concludes
5:00 pm: Parish's Vigil Mass (optional, all are welcome)
Questions?
See FAQs or contact us below
ABOUT SPRINGS IN THE DESERT
Firmly rooted in the anthropology, ethics and spirituality of the Catholic Church, and our shared experiences of infertility, Springs in the Desert affirms the goodness of marriage, upholds the giftedness of the child, and advocates for a broader understanding of what it means to be life-giving. By keeping our focus on Christ, not on conception, we give witness to His Divine love and mercy and the goodness of His plan for our lives.
We’re women and men just like you, with hopes and dreams for a family who find ourselves carrying the cross of infertility. We felt isolated and alone, too. When we started this ministry, we discovered that, while each of our experiences are unique, we’ve all encountered similar thoughts, emotions, and difficulties, and these are what bind us together. Now, we walk this path along with hundreds of others, discovering the fruitfulness God has planned for all of us!
Couples at all different places on their infertility path. If you are a newlywed, trying to conceive, receiving treatment, taking a break from charting, nearing or in menopause, or anything in between—all are welcome. If your spouse can’t make it, you are welcome to come on your own.
This is your time to let down your guard, to share your burdens with others who understand, without fear of judgment. Our Team will give reflections on different aspects of the infertility experience and offer encouragement and some practical suggestions for strengthening your relationship with God and your spouse; acknowledging the unique grief associated with infertility and strategies for combating negative thoughts; and affirming that we are cherished by God! We’ll have time for community, prayer, rest, and laughter.
Yes, infertility is hard. Really hard. And stepping out in faith to talk about it with others—even with those who are going through it too—can also be hard. Be not afraid! You will be among friends, and in a safe place to share your heart as little or as much as you feel comfortable. We’ve had people come on retreat who sat in their cars until the last minute, contemplating whether to come in. But they took a chance and found that it wasn’t as scary as they thought! Instead, they felt seen and heard, and shared that it was a positive step toward finding hope and healing.
Here are just a few things people are saying about the Cherished retreat:
Springs has been a great gift to me and my spouse. It has provided much needed encouragement, rest, and support in the season of infertility. –Ellie
I’ve been praying to find a men’s group for years and God answered my prayers this weekend. Thank you for your radical vulnerability and holiness on this retreat. The Team was extraordinary! –Peter
I felt heard for the first time on this difficult journey. The whole team was welcoming and loving. –Megan
The focus on Christ and healing and restoration through our sacrament, or each other, and not on “solutions” is a gift. Springs is a gift to my wife and I! We will continue to recommend you to others. –Trey