By Quinton Amundson, The Catholic Register
[Canadian Catholic News] – The Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon is hosting an Advent retreat on Saturday, Dec. 6, titled “Rejoice,” inspired by Philippians 4:4, St. Paul’s call for us to “Rejoice in the Lord always.”
The 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. adult faith event at the Cathedral of the Holy Family will feature Mass, contemplative prayer sessions, fellowship and talks led by the Sisters of the Verbum Dei Missionary Fraternity.
The Verbum Dei sisters started hosting yearly Lent retreats in 2021 and an Advent retreat was added in 2024.
Astrid Alas, Coordinator of Adult Faith in the diocese, anticipates the 2025 gathering will be a meaningful day of spiritual accompaniment.
“It is not only very important to prepare ourselves for the season, but also to have a meaning for it, and to know you are not alone,” said Alas. “Some of the participants may face loneliness and this an opportunity to come together to reflect on the importance of the upcoming feast of Christmas.”
Alas shared her hope that all attendees’ “hearts rejoice like the Virgin Mary teaches us, not only in the worldly joys that are temporary, but in the coming of God, Our Saviour.” She added that Philippians 4:4 is St. Paul’s invitation “to replace our worries and to refocus on the important things.”
Verbum Dei Sr. Marta Piano and Sr. Malou Tibayan with Adult Faith Coordinator Astrid Alas (l-r) at the 2024 Advent Retreat. This year’s retreat is based on Philippians 4:4: “Rejoice in the Lord always!” (File photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
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