The annual Lenten Retreat for the Chotanagpur Youth Group Goa, organized by Arnold Seva Kendra (ASK, Goa) in collaboration with the Chotanagpur Youth Group, took place at the SVD Seminary in Raia, offering a spiritually enriching experience to all participants. The retreat, designed to deepen the faith of the youth, began with a vibrant praise and worship session led by Fr Cranston, SVD, followed by uplifting animated songs conducted by Fr Michael Pereira, SVD.
The retreat featured two insightful sessions on the themes “Life and Living for God” and “The Need to Return to God,” presented by Fr Anthony and Fr. Suman. These sessions inspired the youth to strengthen their commitment to God and reflect on the purpose of their lives in faith.
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One of the significant highlights of the retreat was the sacrament of Confession, where participants experienced the profound mercy and forgiveness of God. This was followed by the Way of the Cross on the SVD Seminary Mountain, where the youth prayerfully reflected on Jesus’ journey with the cross. The solemn journey concluded with a deeply moving Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by Fr. Anthony, which added a spiritually rich dimension to the retreat.
Participants shared that the retreat was a transformative and prayerful experience. One youth expressed, “It was a deeply moving and prayerful experience that strengthened my faith,” capturing the essence of the retreat’s impact. Not only did the retreat provide a time for personal reflection and spiritual renewal, but it also fostered a stronger bond among the youth on their shared spiritual journey.
The retreat concluded with a special adoration session, where the youth spent time in silent prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. Many attendees described this as a deeply personal and spiritually uplifting moment, feeling the presence of God in their hearts. The retreat ended on a joyful note with a thanksgiving prayer and a final blessing from Fr Michael Pereira, SVD, who encouraged the youth to carry the spirit of the retreat into their daily lives.
Overall, the Chotanagpur Youth Lenten Retreat was a powerful and grace-filled experience that left a lasting impact on all participants. It served as a poignant reminder of the importance of faith, community, and personal spiritual growth.
