Learn more about Live Jesus! Coverage of past events, how it started, and more!
Live Jesus! 2022 Videos & Photos
Live Jesus! 2022 is a morning reflection sponsored by the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales. This is a morning of reflection, fellowship, and prayer based upon the humble and gentle spirituality of St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane de Chantal. Keep an eye out for announcements about future Live Jesus! retreats.
Live Jesus! shares Salesian Spirituality which helps believers develop a deeper relationship with God through Jesus by defining a lifestyle centered on the little virtues: gentleness, humility, patience, gratitude, perseverance, and simplicity. At this special event, attendees retreat from our fast-paced world and turn to the quietness of our hearts.
2022 - “Healing Relationships…Let It Begin with Me” - Attendees enjoyed reflections from Fr. Tom Dailey, OSFS, and other speakers who shared how Salesian Spirituality helps heal relationships in their lives.
In the news: Arlington Catholic Herald Coverage
Live Jesus! Virginia Speakers - 2024
“Bloom Where You Are Planted”
March 9, 2024
8:00 AM - 12:45 PM
Bishop Ireton Catholic High School, Alexandria, VA
Speakers
Keynote Speaker - Rev. Kevin Nadolski, OSFS
Topic: “Life in God’s Garden”
Familiar with the expression, “the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence,” we counter with a Salesian spirituality that beckons us to “bloom where we are planted.” We will explore the common sense and uncommon challenges that both St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane de Chantal experienced in living the life of a Christian disciple. How can their wisdom ground us to live well in the places and spaces we find ourselves every day?
Fr. Nadolski serves as the Vice President for Mission, DeSales University
Rev. Matthew Hillyard, OSFS
Fr. Matthew Hillyard, OSFS
Topic: “Salesian Blooming: Here and Now”
Fr. Hillyard is Pastor of Our Lady of Good Counsel, Vienna, VA
Ms. Kathleen McNutt
Topic: “Repotting to Bloom”
Sometimes we move, have life changes, or simply outgrow our current container! How can I thrive and bloom in different soil, different pots, and with different plants?
Ms. McNutt is the Head of School - Bishop Ireton Catholic High School, Alexandria, VA.
Live Jesus! In the Words of Past Attendees
“This is my favorite day of the year. I feel so blessed to be part of an Oblate community.”
“Beautiful presentation with a practical approach to gentleness and simplicity.”
“Both speakers were spiritually maturing gifts. My hope and prayer is that the essence of their messages are tattooed on my heart and I act on them in true love.”
“Simple but profound definitions of gentleness, patience,and simplicity.”
“I always come away with concrete actions to expand my faith and intellect.”
Live Jesus! FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to register in advance?
There is no charge for the event thanks to the generosity of individual sponsors. By registering you make it possible for us to be good stewards of these generous gifts. At registration, you may choose to make a contribution but this is not required.
How do I learn more about Salesian Spirituality?
Visit www.oblates.org and click on the Spirituality tab. You can also watch videos by clicking on the Live Jesus! Use the link HERE.
Who can attend Live Jesus!?
Everyone – high school students through adults.
Are Live Jesus! gathering offered in different locations?
Yes! Annual gatherings are offered in various locations as follows:
Advent season – Delaware
Lenten season – Virginia & Pennsylvania
Specific dates and locations are announced in the DeSales Weekly newsletter, on this website and in the local parishes.
Will the event be live on Zoom?
Live Jesus! is an in-person event that will be videotaped as is done every year. At this time there is no plan to offer an option for ZOOM or live online viewing of the retreat.
What is the dress code?
Come as you are! Most arrive dressed in business casual.
What if I have more questions?
Call the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales at 410-398-3057 or email info@oblates.org
Thank You for Registering for Live Jesus! Delaware
Mark your calendar!
December 9th
8:00 AM - 12:30 PM
St. Margaret of Scotland Parish
Newark, DE
Live Jesus! Delaware 2023 Speakers
Live Jesus! Delaware 2022 Speaker Presentations
Last year, the Oblates hosted the first Live Jesus! Delaware at St. Margaret of Scotland Church in Newark.
“All through love, nothing through fear,” was the theme for Live Jesus! Delaware. Attendees enjoyed reflections from Father Joe Newman, OSFS, and Mrs. Diane Casey, a lifelong Salesian educator who worked at Northeast Catholic High School in Philadelphia until it closed in 2010.
Let us all Live Jesus!