From the Archive: Shrine of St. Thérèse in Juneau hosts ‘Marthas’ retreat

Originally published in June 2023

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — The Martha Ministry of the Co-Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary held a retreat April 27-30 at the National Shrine of Saint Therese in Juneau.

The Martha Ministry, affectionately known as “The Marthas,” typically hosts receptions at the Co-Cathedral parish hall. The ministry’s primary function is to provide hospitality at funeral receptions. They also host parish events and, occasionally, wedding receptions.

The retreat was facilitated by Sister Judy Gomila, a Marianite of the Holy Cross in Covington, Louisiana. 

Sister Judy served in the then-Diocese of Juneau from 1986-1999. She ministered with two Franciscan sisters in the former diocese’s missions office. That office had a two-fold function: adult faith formation in many facets such as Institute, RCIA, workshops, and retreats throughout the Juneau diocese; and outreach to village missions such as Hoonah, Yakutat, Tenakee Springs, Kake, and Pelican.

Sister Judy is also known for helping start the “Fun in the Son” summer vacation bible camp. The camp brought Catholic children from small villages to the Shrine of Saint Therese to experience catechesis, community, fun, and faith.

Participants of the Marthas’ retreat gather in front of the National Shrine of St. Therese’s retreat lodge for a photo with Sister Judy Gomila. (Courtesy of Paula Rohrbacher)

“This was an important and long-lasting ministry,” said Father Pat Travers, chancellor of the Archdiocese of Anchorage-Juneau and pastor of Holy Cross Parish in Anchorage. He previously served parishes in Southeast Alaska. “The impact of which continues even now for many who participated in it.  

When the Marthas began planning for their retreat, the first name that came up was Sister Judy. The Marthas members said she was very beloved in the diocese and consider her to be an experienced retreat facilitator. The Marthas were delighted to learn of her availability and willingness to make the trip from Louisiana.

Her themes at the retreat were community and service. Attendees explored these themes through the lens of the Beatitudes and Catholic social teaching. 

Attendees reflected on two scripture accounts of Jesus’ appearance to his disciples on the shore — when He exhorted them to “put out their nets for a catch.” Coincidentally, this was the motto of the former Diocese of Juneau: “Duc In Altum!” The group discussed service as a means of evangelization and how working together to bring the Beatitudes to life enriches individuals as a person and as a community of love and service.

People shared meals, laughter, tears and prayer throughout the retreat. People expressed their gratitude for the Marthas sisters’ time during the retreat, as well as the opportunity to visit with Sister Judy after all these years.

Following the retreat, the Marthas hosted a potluck reception at the Co-Cathedral to give parishioners and friends time greet Sister Judy.

The National Shrine of St. Therese hosts various retreats and events to help parishioners of the archdiocese and its guest to strengthen their faith in Christ. Visit or contact the Shrine at 907-789-9815 for any questions or to learn about other upcoming retreats in the Juneau area.