The 34th year Manhattan University Retreat is:
“So we have known and believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God, and God abides in them” 1 John 4:16“
“Abiding in God” is the central theme and heart of 1 John. John states that “God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him” (4:16). This “abiding” is a deep sense of remaining in or being present with God. It implies unity, connectedness and duration. Abiding in God is not a temporary activity, rather it lasts for eternity. If we abide in God, then we walk in the light (1:7), not blinded by the darkness of sin (2:11) and we become God’s begotten children (3:1).
John conveys a rich notion of what it means to be a child of God. As God’s children, we receive an inheritance of eternal life. God’s promises to his children, which we have encountered in the life of Jesus through John’s testimony, are always good (2:24-25). Since we are invited into God’s family as his children, we find ourselves with new Christian brothers and sisters who deserve our love.
John repeatedly highlights the importance of loving these “brothers” (2:10; 3:10-16; 4:20-21). This theme recalls the “new commandment” Jesus gave at the Last Supper in John’s Gospel to “love one another just as I have loved you” (John 13:34). Just as Jesus laid down his life for us, we should lay down our lives for each other (1 John 3:16). For John, the primary evidence that a person is “walking in the light” is his love of the brothers (2:10).
The retreat team has selected this Scripture as the theme for our 34th Manhattan College
Reality Retreat which will be held at the beautiful Mt. Alvernia Retreat Center in Wappingers Falls, NY on
September 26, 27, 28th, 2025.
We invite you to come to this year’s Retreat ready to recharge your batteries, soak up the energy of
others, and shine your light for all to see. Please share this gift and bring your son, grandson, or a friend.
The Sacraments of the Eucharist, Reconciliation, and Anointing will be available to strengthen your faith.
Our Retreat Mission is to inspire men to take responsibility for their spiritual lives and develop an
intimate relationship with Jesus.
Check back with us on further updates!
May God bless you and your loved ones,
Live Jesus in our hearts forever,
Peter Monaco, CE