Tetere, Solomon Islands, 22 December 2024 -- With God’s grace, 11 members of Jesus Youth Australia conducted two retreats from 5-10 December at Don Bosco Rural Training Centre. Ezekiel 36:26 says, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a new heart of flesh.” This Word of God was emphasized throughout the days of the retreats as participants were encouraged to open their hearts fully to receive God’s unconditional love and claim His promise of spiritual transformation, healing, and renewal.
The Couples’ Retreat occurred from 5-7 December, with over 50 couples in attendance, along with many single mothers. It was heart-warming to witness the genuine faith of the families and their receptiveness to the sessions, skits, activities, and discussions conducted. The family of four — Vinoo, Sumi, Angelina, and Elizabeth — were the main pillars of the Couples’ Retreat and a great example for the community. Their sincerity and openness in sharing their testimonies, life experiences, and personal struggles within their family made the retreat very personal for the participants. Each day of the retreat began with Holy Mass celebrated by Fr. Robinson and Fr. Peter from Christ the King Parish, Tetere.
Day 1 focused on ‘Abba Father’s Love’. A skit centered on God’s love within marriage and family life was performed, followed by discussion questions among participants. A session on ‘True Identity in Christ’ was then conducted, accompanied by a testimony. The night ended with Praise and Worship, leading into Adoration, where couples opened their hearts to receive Abba Father’s love. Many couples came forward to be prayed over by Jesus Youth during Adoration.
Day 2 focused on ‘Sin and its Consequences’, explained through sessions and a skit. Couples were prepared for a sincere confession by reflecting on the Examination of Conscience in their groups. The night concluded with Adoration focusing on inner healing, during which many couples experienced the healing touch of the Lord.
Day 3 had numerous testimonies from participants about the miraculous ways God had touched their lives during the retreat. A session on the importance of the Holy Spirit and how to nurture the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit within families was conducted. The retreat concluded with Adoration.
The Youth and Kids’ Retreat began on 8 December, with approximately 400 participants. It was heartening to see the innocent smiles and joy they brought to the retreat.
Day 1 focused on God’s love and how to have a personal relationship with Him. This was explained through sessions, testimonies, activities, and games. A session on ‘Sin and Its Consequences’ helped prepare participants for a fruitful confession. A skit based on the Prodigal Son illustrated the merciful love of the Lord. Youth were divided into groups for discussions, while kids participated in separate sessions tailored to their understanding, including action songs and lessons on recognizing God’s love in creation, family, and friendships. Both groups came together for Adoration at the end of each day.
Day 2 session delved deeper into how sin blocks us from receiving God’s love. This was explained through sessions and a powerful testimony. The second half of the day focused on the Theology of the Body, particularly addressing different kinds of sexual sins. A deeper Examination of Conscience prepared the youth for confession. Testimonies on inner healing and forgiveness encouraged reflection on personal areas for healing. For the kids, a skit illustrated the effects of sin. Sessions also included teachings on saints, their significance, and the importance of Mass, culminating in a Divine Mercy procession.
The final day had a session on the Holy Spirit, exploring how to receive and use the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit. This was mirrored in the kids’ sessions. During Adoration, participants renewed their baptismal vows and yearned for the Holy Spirit. The session was powerful, and many participants shared testimonies afterward. The retreat ended on a high note with energetic action songs and dancing. It was bittersweet to say goodbye, as the retreat strengthened faith, friendships, and connections.
Apart from the retreat, visits to Honiara City, Holy Cross Cathedral, and meeting with Archbishop Christopher Cardone. The group also visited villages, Visale, the Deanery Youth Gathering, and the Correctional Rehabilitation Centre. These experiences will be treasured for a lifetime.
Jesus Youth extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in these retreats and to those who supported their success. This journey has been one of spiritual transformation and renewal, and we praise God for this beautiful time in the Solomon Islands.
Mifala
Jesus Youths
Lavem yufala
olketa Tumas!!
May God Em, Blessem yufala!
