With university restarting for the year, over 20 youth from St Jerome’s parish gathered for an in depth time of prayer, reflection, spiritual growth and discipleship at a Somascan-run retreat in early February.
The Somascan Days Retreat, which took place over two days, was conducted by Somascan religious Deacon Chris De Sousa CRS and Br Sheldon Burke CRS who through their Somascan spirituality wanted to help prepare the youth for the upcoming year of study and work.
“It was developed to allow them an authentic Somascan experience, giving them time for personal transformation and spiritual growth, to grow in their relationship with Christ and community with other young people of the parish,” said Br Sheldon.
During the retreat, meditations were given by Deacon Chris and Br Sheldon to help those present deepen their prayer life while learning more about the spirituality of the Somascan Fathers and their founder, St. Jerome Emiliani.
Testimonies were given by past-Somascan youth members, who have since become members of Somascan Movement Australia, giving witness to how their lives were changed by being involved as lay-people in the Somascan mission here in Perth and beyond.
James Parker, National speaker and youth ambassador for St Jerome’s parish, spoke on the poor, youth and the orphans in our society today and was heartened by those attending the retreat.
“I was deeply encouraged while speaking at the recent Somascan Youth Retreat to experience the vibrant faith that is very much alive in the hearts and lives from across Perth,” Mr Parker said.
“The hunger and desire to grow in Christ was palpable. Fun, teaching, prayer, and above all intimacy with Christ, were major hallmarks of the event.
“I can’t recommend strongly enough the other youth sign up for the next retreat.”
The weekend included team-building activities, share-group discussions, Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament and the Holy Rosary which was said walking along Coogee beach as a public witness of faith.
Many participants approached Br Sheldon afterwards feeling inspired by the program and by the mission of the Somascan Fathers who just as St. Jerome Emiliani was, are called to share the charism of the Paternal Love of God to those most in need.