Retreat

I am on my spiritual retreat right now and I ask for your prayers. Bishop Lopes requires all his priests to take an annual spiritual retreat, and that is a good thing. It reminds us that the church is not about us; it can survive if we are away for a few days. It also reminds us that the work we do is only good if we are relying on the grace of God to do it. Finally, it tells us that priests are vulnerable and need to "refuel" regularly.

I remember years ago going to a spiritual retreat for a large group of priests. I expected focus on spirituality and time for prayer and reflection. It was, sadly, more like a group vacation. Spiritual retreat is not a vacation (and sometimes can be more "tiring" than a work week). Yet it is invigorating. It revives the soul, and restores one's focus. It helps one to be reminded of what serving God is all about.

I am praying for all of you; I beg of you to pray for me. God bless you!