Lent is the time to purify our soul. The Church has provided us with several ways to purify ourselves in preparation for the resurrection of Jesus Christ. One among them is retreat. Retreats are an opportunity for us to set aside our daily chores and spend some time with the Lord.
A retreat was held at Angelore from 14th to 16th March 2024. Well-known preacher and Parish Priest of Cordel Church, Rev. Fr Clifford Fernandes was the preacher.
On the first day he dealt with the importance of annual retreat to rejuvenate our souls. He urged the parishioners to attend retreats and inculcate the same habit in their children. He said that parents are the priests of the family. He called the Faithful not to destroy nature and make every effort to protect it. Further, quoting Deuteronomy 30:15-16, he called upon the devotees to abide by God’s Commandments to obtain graces from Him.
On the second day, Fr Fernandes elaborated on how God punished the Israelites for turning their back to him (Isaiah), and said that retreat is a way for us to return to God. He explained the meaning of Lord’s prayer “Our Father, who are in heaven” (in Aramaic, the mother tongue of Jesus: Aboon D’bashmayo...). Explaining the sixth commandment, he said killing or murdering does not just mean taking the life of a person with weapon, it also encompasses character assassination. He also said that we are brothers and sisters, and we have to be humble in our life.
On the third day, he spoke on forgiveness. According to the gospel of Matthew, anger, hatred and ego not only kill a man, but also destroy others. Therefore, we have to wipe the tears of others, otherwise they will be a curse upon us. Speaking on Holy Eucharist, he said the Eucharist is the pinnacle of the sacraments; adoration, celebration and living are its characters.
The three days of the retreat gave a rewarding experience to the Faithful and purified their souls.
Report: Mr. Peter Fernandes
Photography: Master Neil Kenneth Fernandes
