Community Retreat Day, December 2008


On Saturday, December 20, 2008, a retreat day organized by the Jerusalem community was held on the beautiful grounds of the convent of the Sisters of Sion in Ein Karem. About 40 members from the communities of Jerusalem, Jaffa and Beer Sheba attended the day that began at 9.30. In a warm and friendly atmosphere, the day began with morning prayer. (Thanks to Michal from Jerusalem for this report).

 ein_karem 

Father Pino, a Jesuit, prepared two interesting lectures that connected Hannuka with Christmas. In the morning lecture, Father Pino, by reading different verses from the Old Testament, showed how Jesus Christ innovated with regard to the dedication of the Temple. In his life with us, Jesus showed us that in the place where God dwells, the Temple, there is a place for even more intimate life with God. One good example, according to Father Pino, of this new intimacy with God can be seen in the image of Jesus as shepherd. Jesus is the good shepherd, concerned for his flock, feeding it and through this personal relationship he allows the flock of his believers to come close to God in greater intimacy.

In his afternoon lecture, Father Pino continued to show us, through a profound reading of the Scriptures, that the Temple that Jesus dedicated was in fact himself. He, in his body and in his earthly life, made available every aspect of his being for the life of God in him. By his example, and the example of Mary, his mother, and by grace and the help he gives us as the good shepherd, Jesus calls us to dedicate a renewed Temple within us on Christmas. We too are called to be the Temple of God.

The children who attended the retreat were treated to a fascinating and creative day. Together with Sergei and Michal from the Jerusalem community, they built the town of Bethlehem. The houses of the town were built from biscuits and decorated with candies in order to make clear to the children that the food - or the bread - that Jesus gives us is to feed us. The children also made figures of children from clay and placed them around Jesus in the manger. The clay children held presents to be offered to Jesus. Each child then prepared a gift for Jesus: a heart with the name of the child on it and a note in which a promise was inscribed that in the coming year the child would give something to Jesus. During the retreat day, with weather that was warm and pleasant, the children played outside and sang Christmas songs.

retreat_christmas

During the tasty lunch, the participants shared not only their food but also some treasured moments of friendship and the occasion to speak with other members. The mass that ended the day was celebrated in the special way in which the Jerusalem community celebrates Advent. The participants shared their insights and prayers with others at the time of the homily. All enjoyed the songs and musical accompaniment.

Thanks to all who helped in the preparation of the day, to the Sisters of Sion who heartily welcomed us and to all who came and contributed by their presence in edifying the communities and lifting their spirits as we approach Christmas.

 

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