Miracle of Waiting - An Advent Retreat (December 2, 2018)

Advent is here! And what better way to prepare for the season than to be in prayer with the community and the Church. Last December 2, Verbum Dei Manila-Pasig held a one-day retreat at the Pandacan Caritas Hall in Manila. Entitled “The Miracle of Waiting,” participants were immersed in prayer and reflection about the season of Advent.

In the morning, Sister Amy invited the participants to ponder on the kind of waiting and preparations we do during Advent. With Mary as the model, she challenged participants to a more meaningful form of waiting - to ready their hearts to be a womb for God’s love.

In the afternoon, Sister Pearl invited participants in her talk to reflect on their focus and priority especially during this season of preparation. Taking St John the Baptist as an example, she explored the best values one can have in preparing during Advent. She continued the challenge of the morning talk, inviting participants to reflect on making room in their hearts for the coming of Jesus at Christmas.

An atmosphere of silence was maintained throughout the retreat to encourage the participants to ponder more deeply the Word of God they had received through the talks presented.
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The retreat was concluded with a Eucharistic celebration presided by Fr. Bong, further reminding the participants of the spirit of thanksgiving that they are invited to carry throughout their preparations during Advent. Truly a recharging and inspiring way to start the season of active and expectant waiting!

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With thanks to Abel and the WordNews team