Friday 22 February 2013

Since the last time I blogged, so much has happened. We finished last week but one on a high. The retreat went  well. The young people responded with real openness and they were a joy to work with. When some people tell me that young people are not open to the spirit and to spiritual things, I just look at them in disbelief. My experience overall is quite the opposite. Given the right atmosphere and trust, the openness is clear to see. God is indeed walking with them wherever they are. I just hope that we can help them to recognise that more deeply. Whether we do or not; it is a great privilege to walk a short time with them.
We've also just finished a short break which has helped the volunteers who have returned with renewed energy. It wasn't quite a break for me. I was down in Kings College London, at my MA in Youth Ministry course. The lessons were very interesting. I'm already apparently a practical theologian. I just have to now write 6000 words explaining how. I remember looking forward to leaving University back in 1989 and to stop studying but I never seemed to have stopped. I suppose you never do; especially if you want to be able to communicate and reach out to people where they are at.
I've just left the volunteers as they start this weekend's retreat. I have a formation weekend starting today; so no retreat for me. However, it'll be good to see the others who are journeying with me in initial formation. There are 3 Polish brothers who are over here for the year, plus Sandy, Joe and Joseph who are from this province. We're reflecting on the vows of Chastity, poverty and obedience that we make. It should be very helpful. The socialising though may be a little 'drier' this time. It's Lent. I'm fasting from alcohol. But before my Rector gets on the blog to remind me....I do understand that fasting doesn't mean just giving things up! You can read his reflections at http://yellamod.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/choose-well-how-you-fast-this-lent.html.
It's actually very good but just don't tell him, he may get a big head!

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