On Saturday 17th October 2026 , the friars of our Franciscan Province gathered at our friary in \u0126amrun for a half-day spiritual retreat, offering an opportunity to step away from their daily responsibilities and spend time together in prayer, reflection and fraternity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The morning began with the celebration of Midmorning Prayer (Terce), bringing the brothers together in the spirit of the Church’s Liturgy of the Hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This was followed by a catechesis delivered by Fr Franco Fenech, Parish Priest of the Immaculate Conception Parish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During his reflection, Fr Franco explored the meaning of conversion in the Christian life, emphasising that conversion is not simply a single event but an ongoing process through which a person grows closer to God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Drawing upon the examples of St Francis of Assisi and St Augustine, he reflected on how their experiences of conversion brought about profound changes in their lives. Their journeys remind us that conversion requires openness to God’s grace and a willingness to leave behind whatever prevents us from following Christ more faithfully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another important theme was the meaning of genuine Christian love. Fr Franco reflected on the challenge of loving not only those who love us in return, but also those whom we may find difficult to love. True love requires sacrifice, self-giving and a willingness to place ourselves at the service of others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The catechesis also invited the friars to reflect on the difficulties and challenges of life, recognising that even painful experiences can become opportunities for spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These reflections served as a reminder of the Franciscan vocation: a continuous journey of conversion, fraternity and service, inspired by the Gospel and the example of St Francis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Following the catechesis, the friars gathered for Eucharistic Adoration, spending time in silent prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. This provided an opportunity to reflect personally on the themes shared during the morning and to renew their commitment to their vocation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The retreat concluded with a fraternal lunch at our friary in \u0126amrun, strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and providing an opportunity to share time together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Such moments of prayer, reflection and fraternity remain an important part of Franciscan life, encouraging the brothers to continue growing together in faith and in their commitment to following Christ in the footsteps of St Francis of Assisi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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