On June 27, 2020, we, the teachers and the staff of St. Joseph College of Caxias do Sul gathered in the morning to make a Virtual Retreat. We were approximately 60 participants. The retreat preacher Friar Jaime Bettega addressed the retreatants saying, compassion is an embodiment of Spirituality.
We are challenged to cultivate hope and to be a sign of hope to humanity in this difficult time. The cultivation of spirituality encompasses action and social transformation - prayer and action. Friar Jaime gave us inspiring examples of solidarity which will encourage us in our future actions. Another remarkable moment of our virtual retreat was to see the smiles of our colleagues, as we were without a mask, participating in the retreat from our homes.
Each one could speak briefly what this participation of the retreat meant to us. The online transmission lasted approximately one and a half hours. For our personal reflection in afternoon reflection we had the parable of the Good Samaritan. We concluded our retreat by Eucharistic celebration live streamed which was presided by Friar Jaime at 6 pm as usual. As it was a first experience, everybody appreciated the virtual retreat. The Religious Orientation Sector, responsible for organizing the event, is very grateful for the participation of each one!
Vinícius Tenedini, Teacher
Caxias do Sul, Brazil
