All young adults in their 20s and 30s were invited December 13, 2025 to join the Portland Chapter of Young Catholic Professionals for an Advent Retreat at Mount Angel Abbey. Franciscan Sister of Christian Charity Sister Mary Ann Spanjers spoke on “Our Blessed Mother, “Mary, the Vessel of Hope!” in the morning and the afternoon talk is focused on St. Joseph, “Joseph, A Man of Hope and Dreams.” Sister Jacqueline Spaniola served as a traveling companion.
Reflecting on the experience, Sister Mary Ann commented: “It was a blessing to share this retreat day with the YCP of Portland! The young adults came distances from as far as three hours away to attend. There is a visible faith and desire to deepen their relationship with God. The Benedictine Monks at Mt Angel Abbey were so welcoming; many of them were available for confessions for over an hour. The young adults are committed to receiving the sacraments and witnessing to God’s love in their lives!”
A hundred young adults took time for this day of fellowship, formation, and prayer to enter more deeply into the Advent season. All were invited for noon prayer with the monks as part of the day.
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