by Br Royston Colaco for BIS Mumbai

Amidst the hustle-bustle of Christmas preparations, a half-day Discernment Retreat unfolded with reflection, prayer, and spiritual awakening at Don Bosco Lonavla on December 19, 2024. Aspirants of Class 10 gathered serenely, ready to explore God's call through thought-provoking sessions, personal prayer, and communal worship.

The retreat was coordinated by MumbaiSalesians' Province Vocation Animator Br. Royston Colaco. The first reflection, “God’s Eternal Plan”, set the tone. Drawing from Jeremiah , highlighted how each person is uniquely known and consecrated by God. Through reflective silence, the aspirants pondered their purpose and mission, recognising their divine appointment to be prophets in today’s world.

The second reflection, “Little Lambs Becoming Shepherds”, recounted Don Bosco’s Dream at Nine, emphasising personal transformation and spiritual leadership. The aspirants reflected on their own journey from being guided to becoming guides for others, inspired by Don Bosco's trust in God’s plan.

After a refreshing tea break, the retreat deepened with “Holiness in Everyday Living”, inspired by the life of Blessed Artemide Zatti. The aspirants examined four personal questions: Have I been a good Samaritan? Have I been an active listener of the Lord? Have I been a prophet? Have I been faithful to my studies? Guided by Zatti’s simplicity, they were encouraged to seek holiness in the ordinary and transform daily tasks into acts of love.

The fourth reflection, “The ‘Kit’ of the Called," explored the spiritual tools needed for mission: prayer, service, community, and perseverance. The aspirants were urged to assemble their personal "kits" for the journey ahead.

The evening culminated with a soul-stirring adoration session, where the aspirants wrote personal applications, surrendering their lives into God’s hands. In silent contemplation, hearts were opened, burdens lifted, and callings embraced.

The day concluded with the Holy Eucharist, the spiritual summit where offerings of time, talent, and life itself were placed on the altar. Strengthened by the Word and the Bread of Life, the aspirants felt renewed, ready to answer God's call with courage and conviction.

The retreat was more than a scheduled series of talks—it was a sacred encounter, a journey from being called to being sent, guided by God’s eternal plan.