Beneath the beautiful skies along the Gulf of Mexico, in Schoenstatt Lamar, Texas, USA, 25 couples answered the call to participate in the Couples Retreat held January 30–February 1, 2026. The meeting opened with Holy Mass celebrated by Schoenstatt Father Hector Vega.
The retreat motto, “Anchored in the Covenant,” set the tone for all talks and activities throughout the weekend. Presentations were given by various Schoenstatt couples, along with our moderators, Sr. M. Danielle Peters and Fr. Vega. The talks focused not only on the spiritual foundations of the Covenant of Love, but also on practical ways to live “anchored in the covenant” in everyday married life.
Sr. M. Danielle shared a powerful reflection on the covenant as God’s chosen way of relating to us. Fr. Vega followed by sharing personal experiences he had with Fr. Joseph Kentenich, helping to make the Covenant of Love more tangible and personal for couples.
Joy, unity, and spirituality
The retreat also provided an atmosphere of joy, fun-filled activities, and a romantic getaway for couples. One of the meals featured a special and delicious barbecued picnic lunch lovingly prepared by one of the Schoenstatt couples.
During the retreat, one couple made their Covenant of Love, inspiring others to desire a deeper relationship with our Mother Thrice Admirable and Fr. Kentenich at the shrine. Additional presentations highlighted the life of John Pozzobon and the crowning of our MTA as Queen Mother of the Church in Rome.
Romantic moments for the couple
A particularly meaningful and elegant evening was prepared for the couples: each pair was seated at the table, subdued lighting, romantic music, a crown, candle, cheese, fruit, chocolate, and sparkling water. In this intimate setting, couples were invited to reflect together, write a letter to our MTA, and crown her in the shrine.
The retreat also included all-night adoration from Saturday evening through Sunday morning, offering couples a profound opportunity for prayer and encounter with the Lord.
The weekend ended with a group discussion focused on how to carry forward the graces received and continue living “anchored in the covenant” in everyday life.
“We are deeply grateful to Our Lord Jesus Christ and most Holy Mary for having allowed us to attend this wonderful marriage retreat. Thanks to God’s mercy, we already had a relationship of consecration through Mary, but the beautiful experience of Schoenstatt is like adding an extra layer to our love for the Mater and the Catholic Church. It’s a life-changing retreat. The Sisters’ help and loving atmosphere are greatly appreciated”, comment Marilyn and Fernando Rivera.
