by Staff Reports – April 17, 2024 – Catholic Star Herald
More than 20 faithful from the Deaf community of both the Diocese of Camden and Archdiocese of Philadelphia spent April 5-7 in Stone Harbor at the Villa Maria by the Sea Retreat Center. The retreatants participated in the inaugural Deaf Catholic Retreat Weekend, which was made possible through a Father John Foundation grant and hosted by VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services Diocese of Camden’s Ministry with the Deaf and Persons with Disabilities, as well as the Deaf Apostolate, Archdiocese of Philadelphia.
Led by Father Shawn Carey, director of the Boston Deaf Apostolate, the retreat fostered spiritual community and connections, reinvigorating the faith life of all who attended.
The weekend was facilitated by Father Hugh Bradley, director of the VITALity’s Ministry with the Deaf and Persons with Disabilities. The Father John Foundation offers financial support to churches and nonprofits that serve certain communities, including the Deaf and hard-of-hearing.
