From July 7–11, 2025, a decisive moment in Church history quietly unfolded in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Seven diocesan priests from across the United States gathered for a five-day retreat—not just to rest and renew, but to ignite something truly historic: the founding of the Apostolic League of Schoenstatt Diocesan Priests in the United States.
Each of these priests had already sealed their Covenant of Love with MTA. But this retreat became much more than a personal renewal. It was a bold, fraternal step forward—a commitment to live out their priesthood in deep communion with Mary, with one another, and with the spiritual vision of Father Joseph Kentenich, founder of the Schoenstatt Movement.
More Than a Retreat—A Launchpad for a Movement
This retreat marked the official beginning of a new nationwide fraternity of diocesan priests who are deeply rooted in the Schoenstatt spirituality. It is a sacred space for priests to live their vocation joyfully, faithfully, and courageously, while drawing strength from a shared Marian mission.
The founding group embraced the challenge to not only live the Covenant of Love personally but to bring it into the heart of the diocesan priesthood—through mutual support, apostolic zeal, and a strong sense of community.
The 3 Ps of Saint Joseph: Protect, Provide, Promote
A powerful theme emerged throughout the retreat: the vision of the diocesan priest as a spiritual father in the image of Saint Joseph. Drawing from Father Kentenich’s insights, the priests reflected on the “3 Ps of Saint Joseph”:
– Protect the sacred relationship between Christ and Mary—the “bi-unity” that lies at the center of Schoenstatt’s spirituality.
– Provide spiritual fatherhood to the People of God with humility, courage, and love.
– Promote Marian devotion and covenant culture within their parishes and dioceses.
Like Saint Joseph, these priests are invited to enter into a chaste, covenantal union with Mary, following his example by taking her into their lives as Bridal Mother. Through this Marian bond, they are strengthened in purity, mission, and fatherly service to the Church.
A Brotherhood Is Born
What truly set this retreat apart was the spirit of fraternity that filled each day—through prayer, theological reflections, shared meals, conversation, Mass, and Eucharistic Adoration. The retreat culminated in a Mass on July 11, where the priests made or renewed their dedication as Associates of the League, officially founding the Apostolic League of Priests in the United States.
This inaugural group has laid the foundation for a growing nationwide movement—one that invites other diocesan priests to experience this same covenant-based brotherhood and spiritual fire.
An Invitation to Diocesan Priests Across the USA
The Apostolic League of Schoenstatt Diocesan Priests is just beginning—and it’s calling others to join. If you are a diocesan priest in the United States who is seeking deeper Marian devotion, spiritual fraternity, and a renewed sense of mission, this is your invitation. The Covenant of Love can transform your priesthood. Mary is ready to walk with you. And the brotherhood of the League is ready to welcome you.
We have a spot for you right next to Father Joseph Kentenich and surrounded with diocesan Schoenstatt priests.
Every year, the League will host a five-day retreat during the week following the Fourth of July at the International Schoenstatt Retreat Center, Waukesha, WI. The next retreat will be held July 6–10, 2026. To participate, you must be a diocesan priest in the USA and either have made the Covenant of Love or be open to making it. For more information, contact stritareceptionfl@gmail.com, frcarlosmission@aol.com, or mary.schoenstattcenter@gmail.com.
Do not be afraid to take Mary into your priestly life.
Let her form you, walk with you, and renew your mission—just as she did with Saint Joseph, Father Kentenich, and countless heroes in the Schoenstatt Family. The Church is ready. The League is growing. And the fire is just getting started.
