The 2004 annual San Isidro Men's Retreat was a success, and most blessed. Our them was based upon the scripture, Romans 8:28, which states, "WE know that all things work for the good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose." We learned that no matter what our circumstances, even in our hard times, just to know that God can take some of the worst things in our life, and turn it into something good. I can add to that, as an example, the tragic events that happened at Columbine High School in Colorado in April 1999, when 15 lives were lost. Several students gave their lives because they would not deny God. Cassie Bernell, when asked if she still believed in God, while a shotgun was pointed at her head, knew what the answer would mean. She chose to die, rather than deny her God. As a result, she became a martyr, and many conversions have resulted in her courageous act of heroism. She now lives in glory.

Our MC was Myron Diaz, and our teacher for the weekend was our own John Schweisthal, who is a lay evangelist. John teaches all over the country, and he is in full time ministry. He was an excellent teacher, sharing some of his own powerful personal testimony, on how the Lord brought him from being on the verge of receiving an invitation to play with NBA, taking it all away with an injury, having no concern for fellow man, to what he is now.

We were also blessed to have Fr. Albert with us for the entire weekend. He was incredible. He listened to confessions right through, missing his dinner, just so he could serve us. He also said Mass for us both Saturday and Sunday morning.