Special Konkani Retreat Inspires the Faithful at St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel

Bondel, March 10, 2025 – A special Konkani retreat was held at St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, drawing the faithful into a deeper spiritual reflection as they journey through the holy season. The retreat commenced at 4 p.m. under the spiritual guidance of Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, the Parish Priest, who led the devotees in a powerful session of praise and worship, invoking the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Fr Andrew emphasized that Lent is not just a 40-day period but a call to live a life of sacrifice, prayer, and charity every day. He urged the faithful to embrace fasting in various ways—not just by abstaining from food, but also by fasting from negativity, pride, and selfishness.

The Way of the Cross was conducted, allowing participants to meditate on the sufferings of Christ and reflect on their personal spiritual journey.

This was followed by the Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, during which he delivered a heartfelt reflection on the Gospel of Matthew 25:31-46. He reminded the faithful of the importance of compassion, mercy, and service to others, echoing Jesus’ teaching: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

Br. Prakash, who delivered a profound reflection based on Zephaniah 3:16-18, reassuring the faithful of God’s unfailing love and presence .Br Prakash emphasized 1 Corinthians 3:16, which says: “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” His reflection likely focused on the idea that our bodies and lives are sacred, as they are the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. This verse is a reminder to honor and respect ourselves and others, living in a way that reflects God’s presence within us.

Following this, Rev. Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, the Parish Priest, led the faithful in a powerful deliverance prayer, invoking God’s grace upon all who were gathered in large numbers. The Blessed Sacrament was exposed for veneration, creating an atmosphere of deep prayer and adoration.

As the retreat concluded, Fr Andrew bestowed the final Sacramental Blessing upon the faithful, followed by the recitation of the Angelus. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to Br Prakash and his team for their dedication and prayers, thanking them for their time spent in the parish interceding for the faithful.

The retreat served as a powerful reminder of the true essence of Lent—a time for renewal, repentance, and reconnection with God. As the faithful left the church, they carried with them a renewed spirit and a commitment to live the Lenten call beyond just the season.

* Meena Serrao Barboza