Between Sunday 2nd and 7th September, at the Porziuncola Retreat House in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq, the Secretariat for Formation and Studies , under the leadership of Fr. Marcello Ghirlando OFM, organized a retreat for all the Franciscan friars. The main theme of the retreat was “The Holy spirit” Fr. Marcello animated and conducted the retreat together with Ms Joyce Cassar.
This was the first time which a lay person conducted the retreat in a charismatic style to the Franciscan Fathers. For this retreat was present the Minister Provincial and also some friars, together with the Franciscan Students and Postulants.
These days consisted in conferences, prayer, reflections and sharing the word of God, Eucharistic adoration, and the prayer of the rosary.
There was also the occasion to see the film “Francesco” and afterwards to share a discussion regarding how St. francis was guided by the Holy spirit. In the middle of the week Mr. Raphael Carabott, a lay person who is part of the Charismatic Movement, shared a personal experience on how he encountered God and how the Holy Spirit worked from within.
The Franciscan Students and the Postulants animated the retreat with songs during the Mass and the Liturgy of the Hours. Fraternal moments where also strong during meals and recreation in the evening. During the absence of Fr. Julian, Fr. Pierre took care of the retreat house. Well done Pierre and the organizers.
