For God so loved the world that he gave his
only Son, so that everyone who believes in
him might not perish but might have
eternal life.
John 3:16
The Ministry of the Third Cross (MOTC) is a Christ-centered retreat ministry dedicated to walking alongside individuals who are navigating the journey of restoration and renewal. Our weekend retreats are designed to offer a safe, supportive space where participants encounter the love of Jesus Christ through prayer, worship, reflection, and personal testimony.
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MOTC serves those who have experienced brokenness—whether through incarceration, addiction, trauma, or loss—and offers a path toward healing, identity, and purpose. At the heart of each retreat is the belief that no one is beyond redemption, and everyone deserves to know they are deeply loved, never alone, and called to a greater story.
The Ministry of the Third Cross (MOTC) exists to introduce men, women, and young adults to the transformative love of Jesus Christ. Our mission is to create sacred environments where hearts are softened, lives are changed, and faith is awakened.
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Through weekend retreats and ongoing support, many participants experience a renewed sense of purpose—and some go on to become Christ-centered leaders within their own communities.
Since our founding, MOTC has served as a divine instrument in the restorative journeys of thousands. We have led over 300 retreats, Bible studies, praise and worship gatherings, and fellowship events, each one centered around grace, healing, and the hope found in Christ.
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In partnership with local judges, ministries, re-entry programs, universities, and counseling professionals, MOTC provides valuable resources to support each individual’s personal and spiritual growth—both during and after their retreat experience.
MOTC retreats welcome youth, men, and women currently involved in the criminal justice system. Most retreats take place in Bexar County, where MOTC has built strong relationships with local judges and justice officials. Many participants are referred through court supervision and are given the opportunity to attend a MOTC retreat as part of their community service.
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MOTC has also expanded into the Corpus Christi area and holds special retreats for individuals recently paroled from the Texas Department of Corrections. Additionally, retreats have been held within facilities of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD), offering hope and healing to youth in custody.
Participants experience a powerful weekend of love, reflection, and spiritual renewal. The impact often continues long after the weekend is over. MOTC encourages retreatants to stay connected through:
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Ongoing mentoring relationships
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Monthly reunions open to all past retreatants
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Opportunities to serve on future retreat teams
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This ongoing connection reinforces the message that change is possible and that no one walks their faith journey alone.
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MOTC Outreach
Since 1997, the Ministry of the Third Cross (MOTC) has led hundreds of retreats. These life-changing experiences have helped men, women, and young adults encounter the healing and transformative love of Jesus Christ.
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MOTC’s impact extends beyond retreat participants— volunteers from parishes across the Archdiocese of San Antonio have faithfully served as team members, mentors, and prayer partners. Their commitment reflects the heart of our ministry: the Body of Christ, reaching out to restore, encourage, and walk alongside those seeking a new path.
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Together, we are building a community of faith, hope, and second chances.​
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The Ministry of the Third Cross (MOTC) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization supported entirely through charitable donations and fundraising efforts. We are not affiliated with any single parish, church, or benefactor. Instead, MOTC is sustained by a community of generous supporters who believe in the power of spiritual restoration and transformation.
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MOTC maintains collaborative relationships with organizations such as:
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Haven for Hope
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The Center for Health Care Services
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Our Lady of the Lake University
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Oblate School of Theology
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The University of the Incarnate Word, among others.
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We raise funds primarily through:
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🎉 A fall Gala and Annual Appeal
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In addition, each retreat is led by a Director who is personally responsible for raising the funds required to host their retreat. The average cost of a retreat ranges from $8,000 to $15,000, which covers meals, materials, lodging, worship resources, and follow-up programming.
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Your donations help us continue this vital ministry—bringing the love of Christ to men, women, and young adults on a restorative path. Every gift, large or small, directly supports lives being changed through the Gospel.
