More than 150 people, from infants to those with silver hair, gathered in the Texas Panhandle town of Borger to reflect on Chiara Lubich's words: "God loves you immensely."

The "Mini-Mariapolis" took place March 6 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, where Msgr. Michael Colwell is pastor.  Msgr. Colwell wanted to share with his parishioners the spirituality of unity that he describes as a "simple but profound way of presenting the Gospel ideals."

The all-day retreat included meditation, moments of silent reflection, sharing and games. 

Sometimes it seems so impossible to live Jesus' words, one participant said.  But listening to others talk about how they made it is really inspiring.

St. John holds monthly Word of Life meetings in English on the first Monday of each month following 6 p.m. Mass and on the first Tuesdays in Spanish following the 6:30 p.m. Mass.