On February 6-10, 2023, Friar Domenico PAOLETTI led the first phase of an inter-Provincial spiritual retreat for the friars of Puglia and Abruzzo, Italy. The theme of the retreat was “The Fraternity That Discerns Gives Prophetic Witness of the Kingdom: Between Utopia and Reality.” The retreat took place at the Oasi Betania [Bethany Oasis] in Lucera, Italy.
Friar Domenico took his listeners on a spiritual journey. He began by discussing the personal and community experience of faith. He posed questions and made suggestions to help validate that experience. Moreover, he mentioned some topics for future reflection, especially in view of the upcoming unification of the Province of St. Nicholas and St. Angelo in Italy (Puglia) and the Province of St. Bernardine and St. Angelo in Italy (Abruzzo-Molise).
Some important topics addressed were: “Living in Changing Times: What Do We Believe and Whom Do We Believe?” and “Fraternity: A Gift of the Lord and a Prophetic Witness of the Kingdom.”
The participants were invited to reflect on the topic: “What does St. Francis Ask of Us Today?” The spiritual retreat was helpful in verifying and renewing enthusiasm for one’s vocation.
Friar Donato GRILLI
Editorial Staff