On Sunday, 29 July the whole Region of Zimbabwe gathered at St Alphonsus House in Tafara to begin an annual retreat. The gathering began with at 6:15 PM where were all welcomed by the vicar of the Region of Zimbabwe and superior of St Alphonsus House, Br. Benjamin Portia C.Ss.R. After supper, we all got into two groups led by two different matters.
The first group was comprised of priests, brothers and some students (theology, philosophers). This was led by Fr Piotr Chyla, C.Ss.R of the events also director of spirituality at the Redemptorist Spirituality Centre in Rome. Fr Chyla introduced the retreat by explaining what it is and what it is not. He then delved on the topic of solidarity, missionary availability and preaching the gospel, the witness of communion – the challenge of community life and restructuring for the mission. He took time to talk about the different dimensions of solidarity; that is, evangelical solidarity with the Christ, Redemptorists family, ourselves, the poor and creation.
This group was comprised mainly of postulants the majority of whom have begun their philosophical studies. This group was guided by Fr Raphael Mabuza Ncube, of the Archdiocese of Bulawayo who is currently teaching at Chishawasha Regional Seminary in Harare. Fr Ncube assigned a theme to each day as follows: Who are you? Who told you? What have you done? Do you love me? Why are you angry? He then focused on the will of God, the cross, radical discipleship, total self-giving, God’s grace, love and community life as well as Mary mother of Jesus.
The wonderful retreat experience concluded with lunch at 1 PM. Everyone felt a sense of renewal and blessedness.
By Director of Communications: Fr M. Chikuni, C.Ss.R.
