On December 9-13, 2019, the friars of the Provincial Custody of the Immaculate Conception of the B.V.M. in Brazil took part in their annual spiritual retreat.
The retreat was held at Casa CEFLÃ, the Archdiocese’s Leader Training Center in Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The theme of the retreat was “Religious Life in Its Anthropological and Missionary Development” and was based upon the biblical text of the prophet Jonah. The Most Reverend Gregório PAIXÃO NETO, OSB, Bishop of Petrópolis, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, led the retreat and gave the reflections.
On December 11, the temporary professed Friars Ricardo Elvis ARRUDA BEZERRA and Jesus RODRIGUES DO AMARAL renewed their religious vows for another year and received the Ministry of Lector.
On the last day, the friars reflected on the life of the Custody, in view of next year’s Extraordinary Custodial Chapter. Finally, after planning the calendar for next year and discussing some changes in the schedule, they concluded the retreat with great joy and peace in their hearts.
Friar Carlos Roberto de Oliveira CHARLES, Custodial Secretary
