Saint Alexis Church in Battleground, Indiana was the site for the 2022 Western Regional Lenten Retreat on April 9th. The retreat was titled “The Steps We Take” and focused on The Ladder of Divine Ascent.

This book by Saint John Climacus is based on the image of a ladder stretching from earth to heaven. His ladder has 30 rungs, one for each year of the hidden life of Christ. The 30 rungs, or steps, are intended to help us change our way of life so that the steps we take lead us toward Christ.
The clergy from the Chicago Deanery provided a presentation on several of the steps to the adults and teens in attendance. The steps were related to our life in the world today.

Father Alexis Miller (Holy Transfiguration Mission in Crawfordsville, IN) spoke about Step 6: On the Remembrance of Death. Father Gregory Allard, host pastor, discussed Step 9: On Malice. Father Lev Holowaty (Descent of the Holy Spirit Church in Schererville, IN) discussed Step 13: On Despondency. Father Samuel Sherry (Saint Michael Church in Niles, IL) led a discussion on Steps 16-17: On Averice/On Poverty. Father Jonathan Bannon (Christ the Saviour Church in Rockford, IL) spoke about Step 27: On Stillness.

The children in attendance enjoyed a lesson coordinated by Paňi Joanne Allard. An actual ladder was used to aid the children in visualizing the steps to heaven! Several craft activities kept the children focused and busy.

A delicious light luncheon was served by the faithful of Saint Alexis Church, followed by fellowship. The afternoon concluded with a Moleben to the Holy Cross and Confessions.