Beetham Confirmation Class on retreat at the Mount

In the serene setting of Mount St Benedict, the Beetham Confirmation class embarked on a transformative day retreat, delving deep into the essence of faith, reflection, and spiritual growth.

The retreat, centred around the life of St Benedict and the journey of the Holy Family, offered participants a chance to examine their own spiritual paths and commitments.

The day began with an exploration of St Benedict’s life, highlighting his disillusionment with the sinful behaviour of his peers and his subsequent retreat into solitude. This narrative served as a powerful metaphor for the participants, prompting them to consider the “poisons” in their own lives and the company they keep.

The group was challenged to reflect on what might be holding them back from fully embracing their faith and whether they were prepared to demolish their personal idols, much like St Benedict tore down pagan symbols to erect a cross.

The retreat then shifted focus to the Holy Family’s journey to Egypt, emphasising themes of humility, obedience, and trust in God’s plan. This story encouraged attendees to contemplate their willingness to step out of their comfort zones and truly listen to God’s calling, regardless of external pressures or opinions.

There was then time for personal reflection and introspection. Participants were invited to find a quiet space to reflect on Psalms 1 and 51, and Ephesians 6:10–24. This exercise aimed to help them discover their own spiritual “songs” and contemplate their readiness to deepen their faith journey.

The retreat’s structure skilfully blended group discussions with individual reflection time, allowing for both communal learning and personal discovery. The presence and guidance of Abbot John Pereira OSB added depth to the experience, his dedication evident in the time he devoted to the group.

As the day drew to a close, the Confirmation class gathered to share their insights and express gratitude to those who assisted. The day concluded with a decade of the rosary and a song of thanksgiving, encapsulating the spirit of reverence and joy that permeated the entire experience.

Assisted generation using Claude.ai