Subpriory Retreat 2018: “LIVING THE BEATITUDES”
Report by David Kissane, Procurator
The Subpriory of the Immaculate Conception gathered recently for its three-day annual retreat (Feb 22-24) at the Campion Centre of Ignatian Spirituality in Kew, Victoria. The third day included a Day of Reflection for Victorian Branch Members and was held at the nearby Carmelite Monastery.
Our Conventual Chaplain ad honorem, Bishop Terry Curtin, DD, Auxiliary Bishop of Melbourne, was our spiritual director. He centred the retreat on Living the Beatitudes. It was an inspirational reflection for the 19 Subpriory members in attendance.
Three members – David Blackwell, Richard Caesar-Thwaytes and Justin Harkewicz – extended their retreat to five days as they were completing their Year of Preparation for their Promise of Obedience.
These retreats form one of the central activities of the Subpriory each year, when members come together in prayer and reflection. Lauds, Vespers and Compline are prayed together along with daily Mass.
In a year when our Order is undergoing a renewal process led by the Sovereign Council in Rome, and the theme of poverty is being deeply thought about, members were challenged to consider the centrality of poverty in their lives.
Luke’s Gospel simply refers to “Blessed are the poor”, whereas Matthew’s Gospel adds “in spirit” to talk of an additional notion of coming before God in spiritual poverty, a humble faith to receive the salvation He offers.
Members of the Order who are interested in deepening their spirituality are encouraged to consider joining the Subpriory and are welcome to contact Confrere David Kisssane about this.
The next retreat is being arranged by Confrere Paul Grew at the Canisius Centre of Ignatian Spirituality in Pymble, NSW from 2nd to 3rd August 2018, and will be followed by the NSW Day of Reflection on Saturday 4th August.
Our thanks to Bishop Terry Curtain, the Carmelite nuns, and all who contributed to this first retreat for 2018.
Members interested in attending our second retreat in August should contact Confrere Paul Grew by emailing info@smom.org.au