TOB 1: Intro to Theology of the Body Crash Course
2025-09-19 18:30 - 21:30 UTC | St. Patrick Catholic Church, 1000 N Beckley Station Rd., Louisville, KY, 40245
Date/Time:
Friday, September 19, 2025 (6:30pm – 9:30pm) AND
Saturday, September 20, 2025 (8:30am – 4:30pm)
*Ends in time for participants to go to Confession and attend the Vigil Mass if they choose
Location: St. Patrick Catholic Church (1000 N. Beckley Station Road, Louisville, KY 40245)
Cost: $20 per person or $30 per couple. FREE for college students, missionaries, and clergy.
Do you wonder . . .

How do I live my life in a way that will bring true happiness?
Why do I have all of these desires in my body? … in my soul? … and what am I supposed to do with them?
What does it mean to be a man? What does it mean to be a woman?
What does it mean to be human?

The culture—the world we live in and that our children and grandchildren are growing up in—is utterly confused about the answers to these questions!
For such a time as this, we have been given (and you have the opportunity to receive) the great gift that will be offered at St. Patrick on September 19 and 20!
God Himself took on flesh—He became a human person, a man, a body! Our bodies matter: in fact, they tell a divine story!
Join us to discover your story, your identity, and your true purpose!
This consolidated crash course, starting on Friday evening and ending on Saturday afternoon, is an ideal solution for those who aren’t able to attend consecutive weeks due to work, family obligations, travel distance, etc.
* Nursing infants are welcome.
Course Overview:
This course is an excellent introduction to the teachings of the Church known as “Theology of the Body” and will provide a solid understanding of God’s plan for humanity. Using the Ascension Press series An Intro to Theology of the Body: Discovering God’s Master Plan for Your Life (an 8-part study that we have consolidated into a weekend crash course), the interactive course will include time for reflection, discussion, and prayer.
This opportunity is for every “body” who desires to reach his or her full potential in this life and become Fully Alive — young, old, single, married, parents, empty-nesters, clergy, and religious!
Participants under age 18 may attend if accompanied by parent/guardian.
Registration:
Register by completing the form at the end of the page.
If registering as a family, choose Couple and complete the fields for the first two people, then add remaining names and information in the Comment/Questions box at the bottom of the form.
Registration fee includes Handouts, Snacks, and Drinks throughout and a Continental Breakfast on Saturday. For lunch on Saturday, either bring your own lunch or prepay and lunch will be provided for you.
Accompanying Minors: There are excellent Theology of the Body materials available for children of all ages; however, this course is designed for a more mature audience. Children under the age of 18 can attend at the discretion of their parents (guardian) and must be accompanied by an adult.
Catechist Credit: All Family Renewal Project courses qualify for Catechist Credit through the Archdiocese of Louisville Office of Faith Formation. Those seeking credit, please complete the appropriate information on the registration form so we know to verify your attendance.

Materials:
A course handout will be provided (no additional cost).
A digital workbook and online access to the accompanying videos for one year is available from Ascension Press. Click here to purchase.

Facilitator:

John Sohl serves full-time as the Director of Discipleship for Family Renewal Project. He is a graduate of Western Kentucky University who loves hunting, fishing, hiking, theater, videography, and playing baseball.
After discerning the call to the priesthood, John transitioned from seminary to the role of discipleship leader in the Archdiocese of Louisville. Some may say “youth minister,” but after five years of dedication to youth, John realized that developing disciples is the ultimate goal.
John has attended and led pilgrimages to the last 5 World Youth Days: Madrid, Spain; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Kraków, Poland; Panama City, Panamá; and Lisbon, Portugal (accompanied by his wife, Crystal).
For over six years (2015-2022), John served as the only male chastity instructor in the Archdiocese of Louisville. Every school year he and one of his female counterparts would teach a multi-day course at over 40 schools (Catholic, private, and public).
In March 2022, John became the first and remains the only person in the Archdiocese of Louisville to complete his master’s level coursework [eight 30-hour immersion courses, testing, papers, and an in-depth practicum] and receive the distinguished Certification in Theology of the Body from the TOB Institute — a major accomplishment!
Together, John and his wife, Crystal, strive to understand, embrace, and live Theology of the Body! They were married in October of 2019 and after four years of infertility, they welcomed their first child (a daughter) in September of 2024.

For questions or additional information, please contact us:
502.303.1996 (call or text)
email: info@familyrenewalproject.com
Register for Event
Fill out my online form.

TOB 1: Intro to Theology of the Body Crash Course
2025-12-05 18:30 - 21:30 | St. Athanasius Catholic Church, 5915 Outer Loop, Louisville, KY, 40219, United States
Date/Time:
Friday, December 5, 2025 (6:30pm – 9:30pm) AND
Saturday, December 6, 2025 (8am – 3:30pm)
Location: St. Athanasius Parish Center
Cost: $20 per person or $30 per couple. FREE for college students, missionaries, and clergy.
Do you wonder . . .

How do I live my life in a way that will bring true happiness?
Why do I have all of these desires in my body? … in my soul? … and what am I supposed to do with them?
What does it mean to be a man? What does it mean to be a woman?
What does it mean to be human?

The culture—the world we live in and that our children and grandchildren are growing up in—is utterly confused about the answers to these questions!
For such a time as this, we have been given (and you have the opportunity to receive) the great gift!
God Himself took on flesh—He became a human person, a man, a body! Our bodies matter: in fact, they tell a divine story!
Join us to discover your story, your identity, and your true purpose!
This consolidated crash course, starting on Friday evening and ending on Saturday afternoon, is an ideal solution for those who aren’t able to attend consecutive weeks due to work, family obligations, travel distance, etc.
* Nursing infants are welcome.
Course Overview:
This course is an excellent introduction to the teachings of the Church known as “Theology of the Body” and will provide a solid understanding of God’s plan for humanity. Using the Ascension Press series An Intro to Theology of the Body: Discovering God’s Master Plan for Your Life (an 8-part study that we have consolidated into a weekend crash course), the interactive course will include time for reflection, discussion, and prayer.
This opportunity is for every “body” who desires to reach his or her full potential in this life and become Fully Alive — young, old, single, married, parents, empty-nesters, clergy, and religious!
Participants under age 18 may attend if accompanied by parent/guardian.
Registration:
Register by completing the form at the end of the page.
If registering as a family, choose Couple and complete the fields for the first two people, then add remaining names and information in the Comment/Questions box at the bottom of the form.
Registration fee includes Handouts, Snacks, and Drinks throughout and a Continental Breakfast on Saturday. For lunch on Saturday, either bring your own lunch or prepay and lunch will be provided for you.
Accompanying Minors: There are excellent Theology of the Body materials available for children of all ages; however, this course is designed for a more mature audience. Children under the age of 18 can attend at the discretion of their parents (guardian) and must be accompanied by an adult.
Catechist Credit: All Family Renewal Project courses qualify for Catechist Credit through the Archdiocese of Louisville Office of Faith Formation. Those seeking credit, please complete the appropriate information on the registration form so we know to verify your attendance.

Materials:
A course handout will be provided (no additional cost).
A digital workbook and online access to the accompanying videos for one year is available from Ascension Press. Click here to purchase.
Past Comments:
“I knew about TOB but couldn’t explain it or really know what it was. I do NOW!”
“I feel better prepared to discuss the sacrament of marriage.”
“The teachings make sense and should be regular because it becomes so easy to get lost/influenced by culture, even as an active Catholic.”
“Loved every moment of our discussions and the people who came!”
“Amazing! Clear, intelligent, and concise presentation.”

Facilitator: Justin Leiner

Through his life experiences, education & training, Justin will introduce sound relationship and spiritual intimacy principles in relatable and engaging ways.
Justin has a degree in Theology from St. John’s University (Collegeville, MN) and in May 2025 will complete his Masters in Psychology (from Divine Mercy University) with a concentration in Marriage and Family Studies.
After completing his undergrad, Justin served as a missionary with FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students) for three years at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio. He then worked as a Campus Minister for two years before making his way to Kentucky as a full-time member of the FRP Discipleship Team where he serves as a Classroom Presenter / Content Specialist and Coordinator of the Catholic Couples Network Ministry.
In his role as Classroom Presenter, Justin & his Teammates give presentations on the dignity of the human person and ‘healthy relationships’ to middle & high school students in over 40 classrooms throughout KYANA.
Justin has completed the eight (8) required master’s level courses at the Theology of the Body Institute in pursuit of his Certification in Theology of the Body. Upon completion of his practicum, Justin will join his fellow FRP teammate, John Sohl, as the 2nd person in the Archdiocese of Louisville with this credential.
Justin is a great witness to and passionate about the Catholic faith; he is committed to helping others understand, embrace, and live their dignity and infinite potential.
Justin was born and raised in the great state of Alaska! He enjoys swing dancing and rock climbing and is a generous self-giver (he donated one of his kidneys to a total stranger)!

For questions or additional information, please contact us:
502.303.1996 (call or text)
email: info@familyrenewalproject.com
Register for Event
Fill out my online form.

AWAKEN: A Day of Reflection for Adults
2026-01-31 08:30 - 15:30 | St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, 5431 Johnsontown Road, Louisville, KY, 40272, United States
A Day of Reflection for Adults
Saturday, January 31 | 8:30am – 3:30pm
Location: In the Family Hall at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church
5431 Johnsontown Road, Louisville, KY 40272
Cost: Free | Drinks, Snacks, and Lunch Provided
Course is approved for ArchLou Catechist Credit.
Come AWAKEN to the story of salvation as we delve into the infancy narratives of Jesus following His miraculous birth! This day of reflection for adults will invite you to rediscover The Meaning of Childhood that Jesus calls us to reclaim in our hearts—no matter what our past holds. Encounter the incomparable Gift of the Christ Child and the Gifts of the Holy Spirit as He grows within you. This promises to be a deeply moving and transformative experience.
The popular Awaken Series, presented by Family Renewal Project, is open to all adults—no previous participation required, so bring your neighbors, family, and friends! This course will fill quickly, so don’t miss out on this inspiring 1-day retreat…register today!
For more information, call/text 502.303.1996 or email info@familyrenewalproject.com.

Facilitator:

John Sohl serves full-time as the Director of Discipleship for Family Renewal Project. He is a graduate of Western Kentucky University who loves hunting, fishing, hiking, theater, videography, and playing baseball.
After discerning the call to the priesthood, John transitioned from seminary to the role of discipleship leader in the Archdiocese of Louisville. Some may say “youth minister,” but after five years of dedication to youth, John realized that developing disciples is the ultimate goal.
John has attended and led pilgrimages to the last 5 World Youth Days: Madrid, Spain; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Kraków, Poland; Panama City, Panamá; and Lisbon, Portugal (accompanied by his wife, Crystal).
For over six years (2015-2022), John served as the only male chastity instructor in the Archdiocese of Louisville. Every school year he and one of his female counterparts would teach a multi-day course at over 40 schools (Catholic, private, and public).
In March 2022, John became the first and remains the only person in the Archdiocese of Louisville to complete his master’s level coursework [eight 30-hour immersion courses, testing, papers, and an in-depth practicum] and receive the distinguished Certification in Theology of the Body from the TOB Institute — a major accomplishment!
Together, John and his wife, Crystal, strive to understand, embrace, and live Theology of the Body! They were married in October of 2019 and after four years of infertility, they welcomed their first child (a daughter) in September of 2024.

For questions or additional information, please contact us:
502.303.1996 (call or text)
email: info@familyrenewalproject.com
Register for Event
Fill out my online form.

St. Joseph: Protector of Mary and Jesus
2026-04-25 09:30 - 11:30 | FRP Offices, 4545 Bishop Ln, Louisville, Kentucky, 40218
This event is facilitated by Fr. Adam Carrico
Who: All adults & mature children accompanied by a parent
Date: Saturday, April 25
Time: 9:30 – 11:30am
Location: FRP HQ | 4545 Bishop Ln, Suite 201
Cost: $5 per Individual | $8 per Couple/Household | FREE for Clergy, College Students, and Missionaries (Includes Handouts, Snacks, and Drinks)

Course Overview:
From the beginning of time, God had St. Joseph chosen to be His adoptive father–to show the Son of God an example of masculinity and assume responsibility of being a husband to Mary, both conceived without sin. Despite this obscure and scandalous situation, St. Joseph steps up to answer the call God has placed upon him to become the provider and protector of what is Salvation History. We will break open how St. Joseph, as the head of the Holy Family, is the prime example of how to live the Theology of the Body in our relationships.
St. Joseph: Protector of Mary and Jesus will be held on Saturday, April 25 at FRP HQ (4545 Bishop Ln, Suit 201) starting 9:30am-11:30am.
In November 2025, Fr. Carrico gave a presentation entitled “Holy Mary, Mother of God–Jesus’ First Dwelling Place”. The talk was very well attended and all in attendance expressed interest in Father giving a talk on St. Joseph. We hope you will join us on April 25 … we know you will be glad you did! Invite your fellow parishioners, friends, & family to attend too!
Facilitator:
Father Adam Carrico was ordained a priest of the Archdiocese of Louisville on December 19, 2015. Father was born and raised in Saint Aloysius parish in Pewee Valley where he graduated from grade school in 1997. He attended Saint Xavier High School (2001) and UofL, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in history (2006). He entered Saint Meinrad Seminary in 2008 where he earned both master of divinity and master in Catholic philosophical studies degrees. Upon his ordination to the priesthood Father was assigned to Saint Gabriel as Associate Pastor, then a year later (2016) moved to Saint Patrick as Associate Pastor while also serving at Saint Boniface. In 2019 he became the Pastor at Ascension and in 2023 the Pastor at Saint Aloysius in Shepherdsville and Saint Benedict in Lebanon Junction where he continues to serve today.
During his early years of seminary studies, Father Carrico developed an interest in mental health advocacy and ministry. After losing his brother, Kurtis, to suicide in 2012, Father’s commitment to those who suffer from mental illness and thoughts of despair deepened even more. Father is enthusiastic about many things, including Theology of the Body and the universal truths of the human person; truths that not only renew the personhood of a man as priest of Jesus Christ, but the personhood of those to whom every priest is called to serve.
*Fr. Carrico has attended (4) 30-hour immersion courses at the TOB institute:

TOB 1: “Head and Heart”
TOB 2: “Into the Deep”
TOB & the Interior Life
TOB & the Marian Mystery

Register for Event
Fill out my online form.

[Postponed] TOB 1: Intro to Theology of the Body Crash Course
2026-07-17 18:30 - 21:30 | FRP Offices, 4545 Bishop Ln, Louisville, Kentucky, 40218
This course has been postponed to the Fall (date TBD). We apologize for any inconvenience. Other options for this course are:
June 5-6: Click HERE for details.
August 21-22: Click HERE for details.
For any reason, feel free to contact us. We are here to assist you!
502.303.1996 (call or text)
email: info@familyrenewalproject.com
Date/Time:
Friday, July 17, 2026 (6:30pm – 9:30pm) AND
Saturday, July 18, 2026 (8:30am – 4:30pm)
Location:FRP Headquarters | 4545 Bishop Ln, Suite 201
Cost: $20 per person or $30 per couple. FREE for college students, missionaries, and clergy.
Do you wonder . . .

How do I live my life in a way that will bring true happiness?
Why do I have all of these desires in my body? … in my soul? … and what am I supposed to do with them?
What does it mean to be a man? What does it mean to be a woman?
What does it mean to be human?

The culture—the world we live in and that our children and grandchildren are growing up in—is utterly confused about the answers to these questions!
For such a time as this, we have been given (and you have the opportunity to receive) the great gift!
God Himself took on flesh—He became a human person, a man, a body! Our bodies matter: in fact, they tell a divine story!
Join us to discover your story, your identity, and your true purpose!
This consolidated crash course, starting on Friday evening and ending on Saturday afternoon, is an ideal solution for those who aren’t able to attend consecutive weeks due to work, family obligations, travel distance, etc.
* Nursing infants are welcome.
Course Overview:
This course is an excellent introduction to the teachings of the Church known as “Theology of the Body” and will provide a solid understanding of God’s plan for humanity. Using the Ascension Press series An Intro to Theology of the Body: Discovering God’s Master Plan for Your Life (an 8-part study that we have consolidated into a weekend crash course), the interactive course will include time for reflection, discussion, and prayer.
This opportunity is for every “body” who desires to reach his or her full potential in this life and become Fully Alive — young, old, single, married, parents, empty-nesters, clergy, and religious!
Participants under age 18 may attend if accompanied by parent/guardian.
Registration:
Register by completing the form at the end of the page.
If registering as a family, choose Couple and complete the fields for the first two people, then add remaining names and information in the Comment/Questions box at the bottom of the form.
Registration fee includes Handouts, Snacks, and Drinks throughout and a Continental Breakfast on Saturday. For lunch on Saturday, either bring your own lunch or prepay and lunch will be provided for you.
Accompanying Minors: There are excellent Theology of the Body materials available for children of all ages; however, this course is designed for a more mature audience. Children under the age of 18 can attend at the discretion of their parents (guardian) and must be accompanied by an adult.
Catechist Credit: All Family Renewal Project courses qualify for Catechist Credit through the Archdiocese of Louisville Office of Faith Formation. Those seeking credit, please complete the appropriate information on the registration form so we know to verify your attendance.

Materials:
A course handout will be provided (no additional cost).
A digital workbook and online access to the accompanying videos for one year is available from Ascension Press. Click here to purchase.
Past Comments:
“I knew about TOB but couldn’t explain it or really know what it was. I do NOW!”
“I feel better prepared to discuss the sacrament of marriage.”
“The teachings make sense and should be regular because it becomes so easy to get lost/influenced by culture, even as an active Catholic.”
“Loved every moment of our discussions and the people who came!”
“Amazing! Clear, intelligent, and concise presentation.”

Facilitator: Ayane Mundy

For questions or additional information, please contact us:
502.303.1996 (call or text)
email: info@familyrenewalproject.com

Young Adult Barn Dance
2026-08-15 19:00 - 22:00 | St Louis Bertrand Catholic Church, 1104 S 6th St., Louisville, KY, 40203, United States
Who: Young adults 21 to 39 years old
Date: August 15
Time: 7:00-10:00pm
Location: O’Brien Hall at St. Louis Bertrand | 1104 S. Sixth St.
Cost: $15/person or $25/couple
Attire: Country Casual
Calling all young adults! FRP is hosting a Young Adult Barn Dance on Saturday, August 15th at 7:00pm! We will be having a special guest, Matt Mordini from the Theology of Dance, come and put on a dynamic dance lesson while sharing insight on what dance teaches us about being human the way God made us! Come out and celebrate with us! No experience necessary, just bring a joyful and open heart!
The venue has limited capacity — Register early!

Photo & Video Disclaimer
By registering for this event, you acknowledge and agree that photos &/or videos may be taken during the event. These images may be used by FRP for promotional, educational, or informational purposes, including on websites, social media, and other publications.
If you prefer not to be photographed or recorded, please inform a team member upon arrival so they visually are aware of who should be omitted.

Register for Event
Fill out my online form.

TOB 1: Intro to Theology of the Body Crash Course
2026-08-21 18:30 - 21:30 | Our Lady of Mercy, 210 S Walters Ave, Hodgenville, KY, 42748, United States
Date/Time:

Friday, August 21, 2026 (6:30pm – 9:30pm) AND
Saturday, August 22, 2026 (8am – 3:30pm)
Location: Our Lady of Mercy Parish Life Center | 208 S. Walters Avenue Hodgenville, KY 42748
Cost: $20 per person or $30 per couple/Household. FREE for college students, missionaries, and clergy.
FRP is very excited to take this course on the road and provide an amazing experience for the good people in Hodgenville, Raywick, Howardstown, New Haven, New Hope, Loretto, Holy Cross, Lebanon, and all the surrounding area! We hope you will join us!
This course is perfect for adults in all stages of life — including: the 20 somethings in relationships and dreaming of marriage, the young spouses who are trying to understand how to be family as God wants them to be, the parents wanting to know how to talk to their teens about purpose of life and relationships, the parents who want to know how to present a counter-culture view of the body and “gender” to their kids , and the people who have heard the words “Theology of the Body” and always wondered what that really means.
Do you wonder . . .

How do I live my life in a way that will bring true happiness?
Why do I have all of these desires in my body? … in my soul? … and what am I supposed to do with them?
What does it mean to be a man? What does it mean to be a woman?
What does it mean to be human?

The culture—the world we live in and that our children and grandchildren are growing up in—is utterly confused about the answers to these questions!
For such a time as this, we have been given (and you have the opportunity to receive) the great gift!
God Himself took on flesh—He became a human person, a man, a body! Our bodies matter: in fact, they tell a divine story!
Join us to discover your story, your identity, and your true purpose!
This consolidated crash course, starting on Friday evening and ending on Saturday afternoon, is an ideal solution for those who aren’t able to attend consecutive weeks due to work, family obligations, travel distance, etc.
* Nursing infants are welcome. Mature youth 12 & older are welcome with parents discretion [youth must be accompanied by a parent or guardian].
Course Overview:
This course is an excellent introduction to the teachings of the Church known as “Theology of the Body” and will provide a solid understanding of God’s plan for humanity. Using the Ascension Press series An Intro to Theology of the Body: Discovering God’s Master Plan for Your Life (an 8-part study that we have consolidated into a weekend crash course), the interactive course will include time for reflection, discussion, and prayer.
This opportunity is for every “body” who desires to reach his or her full potential in this life and become Fully Alive — young, old, single, married, parents, empty-nesters, clergy, and religious!
Participants under age 18 may attend if accompanied by parent/guardian.
Registration:
Register by completing the form at the end of the page.
If registering as a family, choose Couple and complete the fields for the first two people, then add remaining names and information in the Comment/Questions box at the bottom of the form.
Registration fee includes Handouts, Snacks, and Drinks throughout and a Continental Breakfast on Saturday. For lunch on Saturday, either bring your own lunch or prepay and lunch will be provided for you.
Accompanying Minors: There are excellent Theology of the Body materials available for children of all ages; however, this course is designed for a more mature audience. Children under the age of 18 can attend at the discretion of their parents (guardian) and must be accompanied by an adult.
Catechist Credit: All Family Renewal Project courses qualify for Catechist Credit through the Archdiocese of Louisville Office of Faith Formation. Those seeking credit, please complete the appropriate information on the registration form so we know to verify your attendance.

Materials:
A course handout will be provided (no additional cost).
A digital workbook and online access to the accompanying videos for one year is available from Ascension Press. Click here to purchase.
Past Comments:
“I knew about TOB but couldn’t explain it or really know what it was. I do NOW!”
“I feel better prepared to discuss the sacrament of marriage.”
“The teachings make sense and should be regular because it becomes so easy to get lost/influenced by culture, even as an active Catholic.”
“Loved every moment of our discussions and the people who came!”
“Amazing! Clear, intelligent, and concise presentation.”

Facilitator: John Sohl

For questions or additional information, please contact us:
502.303.1996 (call or text)
email: info@familyrenewalproject.com
Register for Event
Fill out my online form.

Secret Fire: A Wilderness Adventure for Louisville Catholic Men
2026-09-11 12:00 - 2026-09-13 13:00 | KY
Inspired by The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
Featuring incredible talks from our Retreat Leader, Fr. Ben Cameron, CPM [more information about Father is included below]
Become Who You Were Meant To Be
Who: Adult Men [sons 13 years of age & older are welcome to attend with their father]
Date: September 11-13, 2026
Time: Arrive on Friday, September 11 @ Noon — Depart on Sunday, September 13 @ 1:00pm (after Mass & lunch)
Location: Undeveloped wooded property in Larue County [approximately 65 miles from ArchLou Pasotoral Center at Poplar Level Road & the Watterson Expressway]
Cost: $99 — Men (18+) | $49 — Sons (13-17) living in the same household with accompanying father
Maximum # of attendees: 25 (including clergy & sons). This retreat will likely fill up fast — if you are interested don’t delay, register and secure your spot today!
Whether you are a man who has read or seen The Lord of the Rings or not, this experience is for you! To be a “servant of the secret fire” is about being a real man, a loyal friend, a good brother, a faithful husband, a loving father. It’s about going on adventure, not being afraid of the wilderness dangers because of the strength of Christ supporting you and your brothers.
All our fraternities, small groups, fellowship nights, and times with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament have been preparing us for these incredible opportunities to encounter Our Lord in a unique time and place – in the great outdoors — alongside other great men growing in virtue and fortitude.
If your father, uncle, brother (in-law), adult son (in-law), or best buddy is able to join you, invite him/them! If you have a minor son(s) at home (age 13+), consider making this a father/son adventure.
This is a time of intentional discipleship where some men may experience healing and deliverance. Other men may feel like they are entering a personal rite of passage, while others may come away with the challenge to live differently and to pass on the secret fire of Divine Love into their own families and parishes.
Which man are you? Come find out!
TO REGISTER, COMPLETE THE FORM AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE
RETREAT INFORMATION:

DAILY SCHEDULE:
Friday, September 11: Noon – 10pm
Saturday, September 12: 7am – 10pm
Sunday, September 13: 7am – 1pm (departure after lunch)
*Retreat site is in the Eastern Time Zone
RETREAT WILL INCLUDE:

Talks by Fr. Ben Cameron of the Fathers of the Mercy
Secret Fire Work Projects
Daily Mass, Adoration, & Confession
Liturgy of the Hours
Hikes, Exploration, & Fellowship
Nightly Bonfire
Daily Meals [except lunch on Friday / see note below]
Indoor Bathroom & Shower
Several priests of the ArchLou have expressed interest and will participate as their schedules permit!

RETREAT LOCATION & ACCOMMODATIONS:
The retreat will be held on 135 acres of undeveloped wooded property in Larue County, Kentucky (address will be provided only to registrants). A true get-away from suburbia, approximately 65 miles from the ArchLou Pastoral Center on Poplar Level Road.
A very simple house with electricity, central A/C, internet, and indoor plumbing is on the property.
Plus, a metal storage barn with a gravel floor; the barn has lighting.
The sleeping accommodations:

10 can sleep in the 2-bedroom house [8 in beds/on sofas, 2 on the floor]
8-10 can sleep in the barn
Unspecified sleeping in tents [dependent on number of tents available]
Priority for sleeping in the house will be given to clergy and those with specific needs; otherwise, sleeping in the barn and then in tents will be assigned by lottery

To provide the best experience for all, the retreat will be limited to a maximum of 25 participants (including clergy & sons). Once the retreat is full, a waiting list will be started. Those on the waiting list will be given the option to attend if/when cancellations are received; contact will be made in the order names were added to the wait list (first to be added will be contacted first).
WHAT TO BRING:

Your own lunch/beverage for Friday
Snacks (sweet and/or savory) to share—must be inside resealable containers
2 gallons of drinking water (all water will be stored together and shared — the tap water doesn’t taste good)
Your own hot beverage thermos and water bottle
Your own flashlight and extra batteries
Warm weather means bring light clothing – t-shirt, jeans for hiking, shorts for working or cooling off
Water repellant jacket/poncho
Bug repellant
Sunscreen
Outerwear
Work gloves
Good hiking shoes
Personal toiletries
Bible and/or personal rosary
Backpack for personal items
Phone charger if necessary (you are encouraged to leave your phone in your car, and charge it there if possible)

HELPFUL TO PROVIDE IF YOU CAN (DON’T BUY):

Lanterns
Ice chests with straps to keep wildlife from opening
Cots/Air Mattresses for sleeping
Tents
Sleeping bags
Sleeping pads
Protective eyewear

COST:
$99 — Men 18+
$49 — Sons (13+) living in the same household with accompanying father
Each participant will receive daily meals (except lunch/drink on Friday), drinks, talks, activities, and a wonderful experience!
REFUND POLICY:

Cancellations must be submitted in writing (via email to info@familyrenewalproject.com). Notifications submitted before September 1, 2026 will be refunded 100%. No refunds will be issued after September 1, 2026.
PHOTO RELEASE AGREEMENT:
When completing the registration form associated with this retreat, you will be asked to grant or deny permission for Family Renewal Project to use photographs, videos, or other digital media that captures your image and/or the image of your minor child(ren) for use in any and all of its publications (print or electronic). When used, images will not include any names and will be used lawfully for purposes such as publicity, illustration, advertising, and web content. All images will be used without payment or other consideration and will become the property of Family Renewal Project.
RETREAT LEADER, Fr. Ben Cameron, C.P.M.
Fr. Ben Cameron was born in Kokomo, Indiana, and grew up as a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church. During his junior high and high school years, he attended a small Christian school that was operated by a local Baptist church. It was in that non-Catholic environment, where his faith was often challenged, that he began to study the Catholic Faith.
Fr. Ben is a 1991 graduate of Christendom College, a small Catholic liberal arts college in Front Royal, Virginia, where he became involved in a lay apostolate known as the Legion of Mary, which awakened his desire to share his Catholic Faith with others. Upon receiving his degree in Political Science and History, Fr. Ben planned a career in the political arena but soon found that God had other plans. He joined the Fathers of Mercy in 1992, studied theology at Holy Apostles Seminary in Cromwell, Connecticut, and was ordained to the Holy Priesthood on May 31, 1997. Fr. Ben has served as Vocation Director, Treasurer, Mission Director and Assistant General of the Fathers of Mercy during his priesthood. He has served as a full-time parish mission preacher and retreat master (2000-2018), and as pastor of St. Helen’s Parish, Glasgow, Kentucky, and its mission church, Our Lady of the Caves in Horse Cave, Kentucky (2018-2022). Currently, he is again serving as a full-time parish mission preacher and retreat master.
The Congregation of the Fathers of Mercy was founded in 1808, originally under the title of the “Missionaries of France.” The community was founded for the purpose of re-evangelizing the French people after the Catholic Faith had been subjected to years of attacks and persecution during the French Revolution. It is now an exclusively American community. The Generalate of the community is located a few miles outside of Bowling Green, Kentucky. The primary apostolate of the Fathers of Mercy is to conduct parish missions and retreats, which are now given throughout the United States, Canada and Australia.
During this “Servants of the Secret Fire” retreat, Fr. Ben will encourage and challenge participants to make a stronger, deeper personal commitment to Jesus Christ and His Church and he gives multiple talks on “The Christian Vocation in the Lord of the Rings.”
SPACE IS LIMITED! TO REGISTER, COMPLETE THE REGISTRATION FORM

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