BIS Mumbai
BOSCO INFORMATION SERVICE # 3313
RETREAT: AN EXODUS EXPERIENCE
Bertha Pereira
NORTHERN ARABIAN VICARIATE, JANUARY 08, 2013 : Eighty six Catechists gathered on Saturday, 
January 05, 2013 at 8:30am at St. Therese of the Child Jesus in the Northern Arabian Vicariate for a Retreat titled, “EXODUS: God’s People on a Journey”. This retreat was animated by Fr. Francisco Pereira, the Catechetical Director of Northern Arabia Vicariate assisted by Francis Sam, the Catechetical Coordinator for the northern vicariate.
Fr. Franco began the retreat with a prayer to our Mother Mary and then checked in with everyone to see if they 
had read the Book of Exodus.
He went on to explain the need to enrich our lives, so that we could in turn enrich the lives of our brothers and sisters. When we go back to our own destinations, we have to encourage and lead others towards the Word of God.
We began our spiritually enriching journey with silent meditation, interpreting Scriptures to help us open our 
eyes, ears, minds and hearts. Together, we explored the Book of Exodus which describes God’s People on a journey from slavery to liberation, from fear to trust and from exile to homeland.
Along the way, we also explored our origin, our present state and our final destination by contemplating over three basic yet deep questions – “where do I come from?”, “what am I doing now?” and “where am I going from here?”. This serene and spiritual journey left everyone feeling rejuvenated and refreshed.
After a delicious lunch, Fr. Franco organized a group exercise on 10 commandments. We were formed into 10 groups and each group was assigned one commandment for discussion and presentation. Each group actively discussed questions related to their Commandment.
The retreat concluded with Confessions, followed by a beautiful and meaningful Eucharist celebration by Fr. Franco. The liturgical and offertory arrangements along with the hymns were well arranged by the Catechists.
Participants were given handouts on the days’ topics and presented with flowers. Fr. Blany concluded the retreat with a vote of thanks to Fr. Franco for his dedication to organize the retreat along with Francis Sam.
Last but not the least,a Special thanks to Colin and John for all the wonderful arrangements and to everyone else who helped out in any way.
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