Retreat deepens spiritual connection with Mother Mary

Sep 20, 2024

By Karen-Ann Theseira
September 8 was a day of special significance at the Church of the Immaculate Conception (CIC) as it marked both the birthday of the Blessed Mother Mary and the inaugural Marian Retreat.

The one-day retreat, held in St Mary’s Hall, was a unique and deeply spiritual experience for the 59 participants. From the moment they arrived, the meticulous attention to detail was evident — from the specially created Chapel for adoration and devotion to the Blessed Virgin to the thoughtful provision of socks for added comfort.

Participants, dressed in white attire as requested, sensed an immediate atmosphere of reverence and commitment. Wristwatches and phones were set aside to enhance focus and immersion in the retreat’s activities.

The aim of the retreat was to deepen participants’ spiritual connection with Mary and to strengthen their faith.

The retreat featured a sequence of six talks, each representing a stage in the life of the Blessed Virgin. The journey began with Chapter 1, which explored the early life of Mary, including the long-awaited gift of her birth to St Anne and St Joachim, and even her fondness for berries. Bernard, a participant, remarked on his surprise that the term “immaculate conception” refers to Mary rather than Jesus.

Chapter 2 delved into Mary’s role in the divine plan, highlighting her position as a loving intercessor.

Subsequent chapters explored Mary as Our Mother and Our Model. Philomena, another participant, shared her personal connection, noting that her reverence for Mary had deepened, leading her to desire more quiet time in prayer with the Blessed Virgin.

Chapters 5 and 6 focused on the Holy Rosary and the Peace Plan of Fatima. Joseph, a member of the Legion of Mary, emphasised the importance of nightly Rosary prayers, while Jo expressed an increased love for Mary following the retreat.

At the retreat’s conclusion, participants were invited to share their reflections, which revealed profound devotion to the Blessed Virgin and a renewed commitment to practices such as the Rosary. The first Marian Class participants were presented with certificates, a Rosary, a Scapular, and a foldout card on Rosary prayers. Echoing the words of St Pope John Paul II, who said “the Rosary is my favourite prayer,” the retreat sought to inspire participants to make it their own.