“Amazing God through Amazing Love – Abide in my Love” was the theme of the Retreat conducted in NavSadhana for priests and religious from Oct. 19 to 25, 2014. It was attended by sisters from eight congregations. It was preached by Rev. Fr. Aquin Noronha, O.P., Rector, Formator, Spiritual Guide and Church Historian from Mangalore. He dealt with the following topics: Encountering God Through Prayer; Life of Consecration; The Power of the Word of God; Encountering God in our community; Call to discipleship; Encountering God through the religious vows; Encountering God through suffering and cross; Encountering God through holiness of one’s life (living the beatitudes); Encountering God through the sacrament of reconciliation. Some of the statements that captured the hearts of the retreatants were:
- When I am not connected to the source of life or love in prayer, my work does not become service; Many times we take decisions with the intellectual capacity and not with the power of prayer.
- Be saints without paints in community life; it is important to gather together in the name of Jesus, otherwise it is a mini zoo.
- We are called to bear not seasonal fruit, but lasting fruit.
- Even if I make mistake by transferring you, you do not make mistake by disobeying.
Sr.Philo, S.A. stated that the preacher was a deeply spiritual man, shared his religious life with practical tips; the retreat was very inspiring, interesting, enriching and life-giving; it helped us to renew our commitment to religious life”. The participants were also happy with the accommodation, food, campus atmosphere and attendance to the needs of the people. Thanks be to God.
