By Channa Tilakarathna
From May 3rd to 5th, Fr Brian Nichols, Dcn Jim Curtain, and Maria O’Donnell, formators of Corpus Christi College seminary in Melbourne, led a transformative recollection at St. Paul’s Retreat Centre in Wantirna South. Seminarians in the Discipleship and Configuration stages gathered to participate in sessions that enriched their spiritual journey and deepened their understanding of their vocation.
Dcn Jim guided us Discipleship seminarians, while Fr Brian facilitated sessions for the Configuration students on various aspects of priesthood, including accountability, belonging, communication and decision-making. In a poignant opening session, Dcn Jim explored the intricate dynamics of love and fear, underscoring their influence on human nature and their significance in spiritual formation and pastoral ministry.
Subsequently, Dcn Jim emphasized the vital importance of Eucharistic adoration, charity, and the pursuit of justice. Drawing inspiration from the teachings of Pope Francis and Pope Benedict XVI, he highlighted the essential role of prayer, particularly adoration of the Eucharist, in the life and ministry of a priest. Quoting Pope Francis, he stressed the intrinsic link between revering the Eucharist and actively serving the community, urging us to prioritise prayer and pastoral charity amidst our demanding schedules as future priests.
In a reflective session, Dcn Jim drew attention to Matthias Stom's artwork depicting "The Supper at Emmaus," illustrating the profound connection between the Eucharist and everyday life. He encouraged a deep reverence for the Eucharist, emphasizing its power to unite individuals with God and each other. The recollection further delved into themes of social justice within the context of the Eucharist, emphasizing the interconnectedness between the gifts of the earth and the Eucharistic table. Additionally, sessions explored the importance of Lectio Divina, offering valuable insights into engaging with Scripture prayerfully.
In a concluding session, Dcn Jim highlighted Pope Francis's encyclical Laudato Si, focusing on the implications of the Eucharist for ecological stewardship. This served as a reminder of our responsibility to care for the environment, deepening our spiritual connection with both the Eucharist and the natural world.
Overall, the recollection provided a profound and enriching experience for us, nurturing spiritual growth and reaffirming our commitment to our vocation. Under the guidance of Fr Brian, Dcn Jim and Maria, we departed with renewed zeal and a deeper understanding of the significance of the Eucharist in our lives and ministry.
