The Third Inter-Provincial Annual Retreat and Workshop took place at the Niveditha Centre in Aluva, Kerala, from August 5th to 12th, 2024. This significant event was hosted by the Liguori Province of India and brought together approximately 45 confreres from the three provinces in the country. The workshop commenced on the morning of August 5th with a solemn Eucharistic Celebration, offered by Fr. Poly Kannampuzha C.Ss. R, the Provincial Superior of the Liguori Province, which set a reflective and spiritual tone for the week-long gathering.
Workshop on Consecrated Life
The workshop was led by Fr. Seamus Enright, C.Ss.R., a man profoundly immersed in Alphonsian and Redemptorist spirituality. His insightful and well-structured reflections on St. Alphonsus, the saints, blessed, and martyrs of the congregation, as well as lesser-known holy men who lived and served in the congregation, deeply inspirational all who attended. Fr. Seamus’s presentations were not only informative but also deeply inspiring, prompting us to reflect on our own engagement with the mission of the Redeemer within the context of the congregation. His ability to connect the lives of these holy figures with our present-day challenges and opportunities was particularly powerful, encouraging us to reconsider our own spiritual journeys and commitment to our shared mission.
Retreat on being Missionaries of Hope
The retreat commenced on the morning of August 8th and concluded on the afternoon of August 12th. The sessions were deeply rooted in the lives of biblical figures, with their stories presented as powerful messages relevant to our own journeys. Fr. Seamus Enright, with his exceptional command of language and deep understanding of scripture, drew on the writings of St. Alphonsus and other saints, offering reflections that were both profound and challenging. His ability to weave together insights from the Bible, the congregation’s constitution, and the lives of holy men and women provided a rich content of inspiration for all who participated. The meditations that followed each session further enriched the experience. The retreat was widely praised by those who attended. One confrere remarked, “Yes, it was one of the best. The preacher accompanied us rather than imposing his thoughts on us.” This sentiment reflects the gentle yet effective guidance that Fr. Seamus provided, fostering an environment where participants could explore their faith more deeply and come away with a renewed sense of purpose. We are especially grateful to Fr. Seamus for his invaluable contribution.
Celebration of Brotherhood
The idea of bringing confreres from the three units together was a truly noble initiative, one that fostered a deep sense of unity among all who participated in the workshop and retreat. It was a time of genuine joy, as many had the opportunity to reconnect with friends and fellow confreres after a prolonged period apart. We extend sincere thanks to Fr. Poly and his council for their exceptional hospitality. From the moment of arrival to the time of departure, each confrere was attentively cared for, with every need met with kindness and consideration. These days of workshops and retreats will always be fondly remembered and appreciated.
Johnson Jebanesar, C.Ss.R.
Province of Bangalore
