On 13th Nov 2011, the National Council conducted a retreat for Vincentians of Singapore. The theme of the retreat is "Awakening and Beyond" and it was conducted by Fr. Stephen from Ipoh. In the talk, Father discussed about awareness, detachment and mortification as stages involved in the awakening process.
After awakening, comes the illuminated state where one displays more virtues and positive attributes as oppose to negative virtues and attributes. Father challenged us to examine our behaviors to see if we have achieved this state.
During the retreat, Vincentians were also allocated quiet time to reflect on the following:-
- Using Romans 13:11-14, let us explore our lives.....Where are we a people of God? Are we moving towards to become people of Light, or are we in darkness?
- As we ponder upon illuninative stage of spirituality, do we see the need to make the change? Name the changes you like to make.
- How can the Society of St Vincent de Paul become an evangelizing group as it ministers to people in need.
Vincentians were also urged to model after Jesus in humility in the washing of feet. Vincentians were encouraged to allow their feet to be washed, like those of the Disciples, so as to become Disciples.
