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By Michael H. Brown

In our continuing series of visits to special parts of the country, my retreat in April will be in the special city -- indeed -- of New Orleans. This is a town and a state I love, that I have visited many times through the years, a town, like others, in which I have so many warm friends and acquaintances.

It is also a town in which there is the special devotion to Our Lady of Prompt Succor (whose miraculous replica is in the chapel of a Catholic school there, which I have visited several times, and always look forward to).

I have always felt special power in this area -- potent forces of good and evil opposed to each other and which I will address.Of course, this is the city of "Katrina," and the last time I was there was to view the ravaged neighborhoods.

This city of voodoo and Mardi Gras and partying is also one of the greatest strongholds for Catholics and particularly Marian Catholics in America.

God-willing, I will be there on April 19, when I will give an all-day retreat from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the Four

Points by Sheraton. We are doing this one at a reduced rate due to circumstances there and those in need can call us. Priests and nuns are free. The location is 6401 Veterans Memorial Boulevard in Metairie. The focus will be on quickening events around us -- not just in the world, but in our lives -- and how to deal with challenges such as presented by circumstances like the recent disaster. As elsewhere, we will have salt blessed for dispersal over the area, along with a Mass and other prayers of anointing, healing, and deliverance.
Talks and discussions will focus on what is occurring in the world; spiritual warfare and protection within our homes; and how we grow close to God and tap into His power (and the miraculous): how we should perceive and deal with the turbulent times we live in. And how we can be healed by the special graces at this moment in time. There will also be a major discussion on prophecy and the afterlife. Included will be question-and-answer periods. The all-day retreat itself will be $30 (free for nuns and priests), which can be paid online with the link buttons below; by calling us (at 386-446-8139, between 10 am and 5 pm EST); or by sending a check for the amount to: Spirit Daily, 11 Walter Place, Palm Coast, Florida, 32164. Please specify with mailed payments the number of attendees; include address, e-mail, and home phone. Cancellations must be made two weeks or more before the event for refunds. Books and videos will be available. Hotel and travel arrangements are to be made by the individual by calling the hotel at 504-885-5700 and asking for sales. There is a special discount for those who mention that they are part of the retreat. A hot luncheon will be available for an additional $22, which is the cost the hotel is charging us. Availability is limited, with "first-come, first serve." I look forward to praying with my friends, and with offering information (and prayers) that will hopefully make a difference -- personally and for this great region. (Please note that shipping and handling fee automatically figured into buy-me buttons below will not be charged)