ATLANTA—Our Lady of the Assumption Church this year held its 25th “Christ Renews His Parish,” a lay-directed weekend renewal program that was introduced to the parish in 1980.

The weekend is a spiritual retreat for parishioners led by parishioners, including lay directors and a lay team, as well as a priest or deacon who serves as a spiritual director.

Since 1980, over 800 OLA parishioners have attended CRHP, which is open to those 18 and older. The most recent weekend was held Feb. 25-27.

The late Bill Heil and his wife, Helen, were involved with the CRHP ministry since its inception in the parish. In the spring of 1991, during a reunion program, Mr. Heil had shared his thoughts about “Christ Renews His Parish.”

“We have seen wonderful, dramatic changes in individuals, even seemingly miraculous conversions, and other slower but just as wonderful changes take place in our parish through Christ Renews His Parish,” he said. “At the time of the first CRHP, OLA parish life lacked a certain vitality, warmth and spiritual growth. Many parishioners seemed lukewarm, content to rush to Mass, leave early, never recognize or greet others, particularly visitors. Since the first CRHP weekend, the caring attitude of many of these same people reflects the work of the Holy Spirit. The growth in love and caring support is truly a joy.”

Sue Reynolds, who, with her husband Chris, served as the lay director for the last CRHP, said that the weekend has become a staple at OLA.

“It really promotes people becoming more and more active,” she said. “I hope other parishes will find out more about this ministry.”