Retreat for the Religious of the Diocese of Manzini, Eswatini

On Saturday October 4th, the religious men and women of the Diocese of Manzini gathered at St. Philip Parish in Eswatini for a meaningful day of retreat. This day was centered around the theme of caring for oneself through relationship, providing an opportunity for the religious Men and Women to deepen their spiritual lives and foster connections with themselves, God, and others.

The highlight of the retreat was an insightful talk delivered by our regional Superior, Sr. Barbara Staley. Her address focused on the theme of the day, emphasizing the intertwined relationships between knowing oneself, knowing God, and knowing others. Sr. Barbara used scripture references to illustrate these connections, encouraging participants to reflect on their personal journeys and spiritual growth.

Manzini Diocese Religious men and women in front of St. Philip’s parish

Sr. Barbara began by discussing the importance of self-awareness. She highlighted that understanding one's own strengths, weaknesses, and desires is crucial for personal growth and fulfillment. Through introspection and prayer, individuals can cultivate a deeper sense of who they are, which in turn allows them to better serve others. The next part of her talk centered around the relationship with God. Sr. Barbara emphasized the necessity of nurturing a close bond with the divine through regular prayer and meditation. She quoted scripture to remind participants of God's unwavering love and guidance, encouraging them to seek solace and strength in their faith.

Finally, Sr. Barbara spoke about the significance of building meaningful relationships with others. She stressed that by understanding and empathizing with those around us, we can create a supportive and compassionate community. This interconnectedness not only enhances our lives but also helps us to live out the core teachings of love and service.

The retreat concluded with a Eucharistic celebration, a moment of communal worship that reinforced the day's theme of unity and relationship. Following the service, attendees gathered for a shared dinner, where they continued to engage in fellowship and conversation. The day of retreat at St. Philip Parish was a meaningful reminder of the power of relationships in nurturing our spiritual and personal well-being.