Mothers Gather for 'Fill Your Cup' Retreat in Pennsylvania

More than 40 mothers from across the Diocese participated in the spiritual retreat to rest and be restored.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Despite the impending winter storm, over 40 mothers from the Diocese of Allentown, Pennsylvania attended the 'Fill Your Cup' retreat on January 24th at Sacred Heart in Bethlehem. The retreat, organized by the Office of Marriage and Family Life, aimed to provide a peaceful and uplifting morning for young and homeschooling mothers to center themselves spiritually and connect with one another.

Why it matters

The retreat was inspired by the verse from Psalm 23:5, 'You set a table before me in front of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.' It sought to address the frequent demands and draining nature of motherhood by giving mothers a chance to 'fill their cup' through fellowship, spiritual nourishment, and practical advice.

The details

The retreat began with Mass and Confessions, setting a Christ-centered tone. Afterwards, mothers enjoyed a social hour with a coffee bar, continental breakfast, and time to meet and mingle. Vendors from local Catholic groups were also on hand to provide resources. The keynote speaker was homeschooling expert Susie Lloyd, who spoke about the importance of setting healthy limitations. Small group discussions allowed mothers to reflect on what drains them and how to remain spiritually replenished. The retreat ended with a panel discussion where mothers could ask questions about motherhood.

  • The retreat was held on January 24, 2026.
  • It took place despite the impending arrival of winter storm Fern.

The players

Office of Marriage and Family Life

The organization that put on the 'Fill Your Cup' retreat for mothers in the Diocese of Allentown.

Susie Lloyd

A homeschooling expert, author, and speaker who gave the keynote address at the retreat.

Rhady Tulloch

The Director of Marriage and Family Life for the Diocese of Allentown, who welcomed the retreatants.

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What they’re saying

“We're being pulled in so many different directions and we can be drained and not give the best version of ourselves. In reality, unless we fill ourselves first, no one is going to be able to get the best version of you. So that's what today's about. That's why we're here.”

— Rhady Tulloch, Director of Marriage and Family Life, Diocese of Allentown (ad-today.com)

“Sometimes you have to just dial it back. I did. [Giving talks] was just hard on me and the family. It just wasn't something I could make a priority, even though it may have been my 'thing.' I now had another priority.”

— Susie Lloyd, Homeschooling expert, author, and speaker (ad-today.com)

What’s next

The Diocese of Allentown plans to continue offering the 'Fill Your Cup' retreat annually to provide ongoing spiritual support and community for local mothers.

The takeaway

This retreat highlights the importance of self-care and setting healthy boundaries for mothers who are frequently in service to others. By taking time to 'fill their cup' through prayer, fellowship, and practical advice, these mothers were able to center themselves and better serve their families and communities.