Annual retreat 2016 Back

ANNUAL RETREAT: A MOMENT TO RECONCILE WITH ONESELF AND GOD

A retreat refreshes and revitalizes, gives the opportunity for more time to be spent in prayer and contemplation. Besides, it rekindles and deepens one’s relationship with God as well as ones neighbor. One may take this opportunity to more clearly hear God’s healing grace and thereby attain a degree of spiritual renewal. The purpose of a spiritual retreat , as an addition to daily spiritual activities, is to temporarily leave behind the usual distraction we all face for a time long enough to allow relaxation and for an inner change to occur.

 To prepare oneself spiritually for the resurrection of Lord Jesus a retreat was organized for the parishioners of Most Holy Redeemer Church, Derebail. The five day’s retreat began on 29^th February and ended on 4^th March. The preacher who conducted the retreat was Fr. Rajesh Melwin Rosario, Prof of Systematic Theology at St. Joseph Inter Diocesan Seminary. Each day of the retreat focused on a particular theme which helped in the boosting of inner spiritual energy to live a committed Christian life.

The theme of the FIRST DAY was GOD’S MERCY FOR ALL HUMAN KIND. It focused on how one could attain and share this mercy with those who are in need of the same. The SECOND DAY’S theme was based on the sacrament of RECONCILIATION. The THIRD DAY was “THE DAY OF RECONCILIATION.” On the FOURTH DAY the focus was on BUILDING OF THE FAMILIES. Besides being a part of a small family in this world we are also the members of a larger family i.e. the family of THE MOTHER CHURCH. The FIFTH DAY was a recapitulation of all the four days. The parishioners were enlightened on the importance of the Word of God in daily life.Each day there was Eucharistic celebration followed by adoration.

The retreat ended with a word of gratitude by Rev.Fr.Anil Lobo (Asst Priest of derebail). He thanked Fr. Rajesh for conducting the retreat. He also thanked Russel an upcoming musician. Finally he thanked all those who attended the retreat.

Report by: Loretta Anthony
Pictures: Sheldon Alvares