With the Blessing of His Eminence Metropolitan Basilios and the leadership of Fr Romanos and Fr Ephram, the Antiochian Arabic Youth Group in Sydney attended their First Spiritual Retreat between the 26-28 March 2021, at the Antiochian Village for a different type of study.
In an ambiance of prayers free of worldly care, the group attended the various services and lectures including workshops and a Trivia Night.
The competition on St Luke’s Gospel was one of the highlights of the weekend.
Meditation on St John’s Gospel, Chapter 15 brought a new equation to the understanding of the Vine and the Branches and the responsibility of the faithful to be fruitful.
Sister Theodora spoke about the nourishment of the Philokalia and how important it is to set time for prayer at home and to be constantly connected to our Heavenly Father.
The Divine Liturgy on Sunday was the last service where the group assembled in thanksgiving to God for the blessed and rewarding spiritual retreat.
The joy of the experience brought to the group an element of interest and zeal to come back to the monastery soon for another retreat.
At the conclusion, Fr Romanos presented the group with various gifts including prayer ropes and icons.
The group expressed their sincere thanks to Fr Romanos, Fr Ephram, Fr Lawrence, and Sister Theodora for their contribution to the success of the weekend.
