A Long Lingering Look at Jesus by the Leaders of the Province of Hyderabad

No one can go full speed all the time. It wears you out. Best way to win a war is to stop and retreat. It is this grain of wisdom that goaded the leaders of the Province to pack up and park at Don Bosco Provincial house, Hyderabad for a week long (6-11 August) retreat amidst their hustle and bustle of activities. Situated sufficiently away from the daily commotions of the city life, our Provincial House served as a perfect venue under the efficient guidence of the retreat master Fr M.J Mathew in the cool and soothing weather of Kismatpur. Fr M.J's long accumulated wisdom as the professor of theology and the Provincial of Bangalore came in handy to animate and re-awaken the group to the presence of Jesus. His oft repeated phrase " Long Lingering Look at Jesus" and "Felt need for Prayer" captivated every 'retreatant.'  Talks fairly lasting between 30-40 minutes brought to fore the basic Christian and religious values which otherwise are taken for granted by the present religious. His unassuming personality coupled with soft and ceremonious speeches rang the bell that God does speak not in a mighty wind and a thunderstrom but through a gentle breeze. The activities were spaciously spread out to give maximum time for personal prayer. Well animated Eucharistic celebration at 11.30 am and the one hour adoration at 7.00 pm were the two important moments of spiritual nourishment of each day. Along with a  pleasant weather the retreat was well accompanied by delicious meals and other arrangements. Thanks to the Provincial house community, Fr Kishore, the administrator and his cohorts for good managerial skills.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  [Fr A. Sagar SDB]