This event is for mothers and their daughters of ages between a mature 10 year old and 13.
We will be briefly discussing puberty and changes in a young woman's body, as well as understanding the woman's cycle. We will not breach the subject of sexual intercourse. We do plan to address the gift of being a woman, and with that understanding that we are body AND soul, meaning who we are is how our body expresses us, therefore altering our sex is not an option. And with seeing the differences between Man and Woman, we know that complementarity is part of God's plan. Same-sex marriage is not God's design.
That being said, all people are given free-will to choose to accept or reject God's design. We are not here to judge others. We love all of our neighbors regardless of their choices.
The event is set up to allow brief private discussions between mom and daughter about some of these topics. Moms can brooch them however they feel appropriate. We will provide some open-ended questions. This time can be used in whatever way the mom chooses: talking about the "gay" neighbors, what's sex, what are some of your concerns about growing up, or even favorite hairstyles. . .
Other serious talks and discussions will center around what it means to have faith and a prayerlife as a young woman.
However, the majority of the time of the event will be spent in friendly activities designed to be fun and create bonds. We will paint nails, do crafts, sing around a bonfire, and take a hike to a waterfall.
Currently, we will not have Mass during the retreat on Saturday or Sunday, but whoever would like to attend Mass with us after the event is over at 11:30 at Holy Cross in Pickens (closest Parish to the retreat center) is welcome to join us there. Otherwise please make your own arrangements for Mass that evening. If we are able to find a priest to say Mass for us over the weekend, we will inform everyone.