The Confirmation candidates of Our Lady of Dolours Parish, Dahanu had a half day retreat at AYAC, Dahanu on December 30, 2018 , animated by Sr. Santana Pereira. The day was based on the theme: Youth for Jesus. The videos and the PPT enabled them to delve deeply into the meaningfulness of this Sacrament inspiring them to become strong witnesses of Christ. The youth were guided through the Biblical passage on the coming of the Holy Spirit: All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit… (Acts 2:1-4), to live this week intensely in prayer, reading of the Bible and in good deeds guarding their thoughts. The day came to a close with a short hour of adoration where the youngsters personally touched the Lord praying to Him for the special grace they need in their lives. The spontaneous prayers praying for the other youth to live holily, for a clean Government and for themselves that they may live with Jesus and do what is good.
Some of the testimonies in their own words depict the impact on them by the power of silence, reflection and prayer:
“It was a very good retreat. It was the first time I felt being really close to God. Showing videos and songs made me feel pleasant within me. The 20 minutes gap which was spent in silence was as if we were spiritually in touch with God. We want more retreats like this.” Ashwin Felix
“It was a wonderful session, a boosting experience for me. The topics delivered by Sr. Santana were up to the mark much helpful for our preparation for receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation. There was time for us for self-realization and also for adoring the Almighty.”Pearl Rozario
“We got to look at our life differently. The time spent in retreat was very beneficial to me. We not only learnt new things, but also came to know the holy Sacrament in depth.” Chris Dalvi
“I felt very happy and enriched. I thank God for this grace God gave me to spend time in reflection. I came to know what is right and wrong. I pray that I always be with Jesus and do what is good.” Navina Dias.
