Members of a ministry in St. Anthony Parish, Red Bank, are organizing a special retreat that will focus on the Blessed Mother, complete with Mass and a trio of speakers to guide the program.

The parish’s St. Ann’s Ministry will host “Focusing on Mary” Saturday, June 20 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The day-long retreat will begin in the parish church with the celebration of Mass, followed by a complimentary light, continental breakfast.

Rosemary Troianiello, a member of the parish’s spirituality ministry, said that the ministry attempts each year to hold at least one retreat.

“This year, they decided that they would do it in June, and do something a little different,” she said, noting that, in the past, the retreat was often held on the feast day of St. Ann. “For this occasion, the focus will be on the Blessed Mother.”

Following Mass, reflections will be guided by three guest speakers. Patricia Stephens is a spiritual director not only for the Red Bank parish, but for other parishes as well as private Catholics. She will be joined by the parish’s pastor, Father Alberto Tamayo, as well as Barbara Santillo, who Troianiello described as an advocate for St. Therese of the Child Jesus. Santillo has contributed written works to the Mission of the Society of the Little Flower, an organization that promotes devotion to St. Therese.

There is no cost to attend, though there will be a free-will offering. Attendees should bring a bagged lunch; refreshments will be served.

Troianiello said that the ministry has been spreading the word throughout the Diocese of Trenton in order to encourage folks to attend.

“Everyone is welcome,” she said, adding her belief that participants in the retreat would find the experience to be rewarding. “They will find a sense of themselves; they would find it very enlightening.”

Those interested in registering can contact Troianiello at 732-212-8226.