Lenten Retreat for English-speaking Catholics

Forty-five participants congregated at the Duns Scotus Bible Centre for a short Lenten Retreat of three hours in the afternoon of Saturday, 20 March 2010.

The general theme was based on the Lenten Readings of Years A, B and C which conveyed the covenant God made with Moses and David promising to give His people new life and to forgive sins. There were three talks based on readings from the Book of Numbers. The participants were asked to reflect deeply on the events in their daily lives bearing in mind on the elements of jealousies, gossip, insecurities, etc. that many would encounter. They were also advised that in order to attain God’s promise of 'the land of milk and honey' they should have faith in God, they would need to co-operate with Him, Only be being responsible and to work for it would the land be a promised land. Everyone was also reminded to focus on the two commandments of God which were to love God and to love our neighbours. In addition to the talks, many volunteered to lead on individual Stations of the Cross or the recitation of the sorrowful mysteries of the Holy Rosary which made the prayers so much more a communal spiritual experience.

Many attendees were appreciative to be able to have several hours of quite and meaningful time in prayer and reflection particularly during this season of repentance. They were pleased that the Duns Scotus Bible Centre offered a convenient location with a peaceful setting to allow them to escape from their daily routines for just a few hours and many considered the time well-spent and rewarding.