| Everyone arrived at this year’s St Mary’s Mays Hill retreat carrying something different. Some came looking forward to a weekend away, others carrying worries, struggles and hidden burdens from everyday life. In Goulburn, removed from the usual busyness and pressures, we were given the opportunity to slow down, come together and reflect on what it truly means to work and rest in Christ.
Father John’s opening introduction set the tone for the weekend with a simple but powerful invitation: whatever we had brought with us, we could use this time to place it at Christ’s feet. As Christ Himself says, “Come to Me, all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” The gathering at Goulburn offered a rare opportunity to see our brothers and sisters in Christ in a different light, discover hidden skills, and grow in love for one another. The days began and ended with prayer services that were both peaceful and grounding. Whenever help was needed, someone unexpected was always there to assist, both practically and spiritually. The icebreaker questions around the bonfire broke down walls and brought participants closer together. It was also a blessing to have Fr Joseph deliver an interactive, thought-provoking and spiritually enriching talk on Saturday. Finally, having the opportunity to truly rest in each other’s company through peaceful activities and simple work such as gardening, painting and reading brought a sense of peace that can often be difficult to find in everyday life. It can be easy to become comfortable within our familiar groups, sometimes making it difficult for others to feel that they belong. However, this retreat felt open and welcoming to all, reflecting the culture Fr John has worked over many years to foster among the youth and the parish: that everyone has a place and no one should feel left on the outside. His leadership, along with the many seen and unseen efforts of those who served throughout the weekend, helped create an environment where people could simply be together, serve one another and grow closer in Christ. Above all, it was through the grace of God that we were able to enjoy the many blessings He gave us: beautiful weather, deeper connections, a safe weekend together, and the celebration of the Forefeast of the Elevation of the Holy Cross. There was even a beautiful and unexpected connection in the basil plants given to participants to take home after their work over the weekend, coinciding with the basil traditionally associated with the Holy Cross. Glory to God for all things! |
