At the inception of Retreat Most Rev. Valerian D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus of Pune, stated that the best preacher is the Holy Spirit, the priest-preachers are only instruments in His hand. He further stated that Christianity is the relationship to Triune God, to Mary, Mother of God, and to Humans as well as universe; it reveals the vertical and horizontal relationship to all in the universe; We need to seek God, not works of God. The contents of the retreat were: God is Love; He loves all freely and unco
nditionally; Idols in human life such as greed, avarice, love of money, pleasure, comfort of life, power, position, pelf, name, fame, success, lust, relatives and friends, security, tradition, laws, etc. In a nutshell what does not help to come closer to God. He talked about forgiveness: love and forgiveness are like two sides of the same coin; forgiveness requires inner strength, weak person can not forgive; He illumined us Jesus as the Way, Truth, and Life to the Father. He enlightened us the Role of the Holy Spirit in our life and the Blessed Virgin Mary as a perfect christian and perfect disciple with examples, quips and quotes. The annual retreat for the second batch of priests was held at NavSadhana from September 21 to 27, 2014. The first day was the arrival and the last day was the departure.
The retreatants were edified by the life and preaching of the Bishop and enjoyed the days in communion with God and with one another. The liturgical celebration was highly appreciated for melodious singing and co-operation of all. The participants appreciated the serene atmosphere and smooth functioning of the centre and expressed their gratitude to Director and staff of NavSadhana. All returned to their destination with enlightenment, enrichment, empowerment to work faithfully in the vineyard of the Lord Jesus Christ.
