Tetere, Solomon Islands 20 December 2023 -- Renewing one's faith realigns priorities in serving with our lives. Over 30 catechists gathered for a 3-day Spiritual Retreat at DBRTC from December 7 to 10, themed 'I renew my Faith to serve the Lord.' Members of Jesus Youth from Australia contributed to their faith formation retreat sessions.
The first day commenced with Holy Mass at 6:30 at Christ the King Parish, followed by a session of praise and worship led by the music ministry. Subsequent sessions focused on ‘God’s Love,’ captivating the catechists. The Jesus Youth shared personal testimonies, revealing their encounters with Christ. The second session delved into ‘Self-Image and our identity in Christ’ and ‘Sin and its consequences,’ engaging catechists through talks and activities. The night of adoration concluded the day, marking a beautiful time of praise and worship, initiating the process of inner healing.
On the second day, a gospel-based reflective meditation preceded Mass at the DBRTC Chapel. The first session centered on ‘Jesus our Saviour and Lord,’ followed by engaging activities. Later sessions explored "Forgiveness," ‘Inner Healing,’ and ‘Lordship,’ packed with reflective activities preparing catechists for confession. Adoration provided a space for renouncing inner wounds as the Jesus Youth prayed over each catechist, creating a moment of grace.
The final day of the retreat commenced with Ignatian spirituality-based meditation followed by Mass. Sessions covered ‘Gifts of the Holy Spirit,’ and after understanding these gifts, time in adoration followed. Fr. Robinson blessed each catechist with the Jesus Youth invoking the Holy Spirit. A joyful moment arose as each catechist experienced the fire of the Holy Spirit. The last two sessions, ‘Living a Victorious Life’ and "Evangelization," equipped the catechists to continue growing in faith and become instruments of God in their communities.
At the end of the retreat, many expressed deep gratitude to God, highlighting this as the first retreat where both physical and inner healing took place. They thanked the parish priest for organizing the retreat and inviting Jesus' youth to assist in their spiritual journey.
