Honiara, Solomon Islands – The Catholic Archdiocese of Honiara is hosting the 2024 Biennial Spiritual Retreat for priests from the three dioceses of Solomon Islands—Gizo, Auki, and Honiara. Held at the Holy Name of Mary Seminary (HNMS) in East Honiara, Guadalcanal, this year’s retreat carries the theme: “Sainthood, Sanctity, and What Makes Us Holy?”
The retreat began on Sunday, November 17, 2024, with an Opening Holy Mass led by the Vicar General of the Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Peter Chele. He was joined by Fr. Rafael Galindes Galve sdb, Fr. Lawrence Samani and Fr. Mancent Kavaliliu who read the first and second readings and the Gospel was read by Deacon Lawrence, and the homily was delivered by Fr. Michael Tuisuta.
In his homily, Fr. Michael reflected on the readings of the day, linking them to the retreat’s theme. He spoke about the universal call to holiness, drawing inspiration from the Gospel message and emphasizing how priests are called to embody sanctity in their ministry. “Sainthood is not reserved for a select few,” he said. “It is a journey we are all invited to take, and this retreat offers us the opportunity to reflect deeply on what makes us holy and how we can strive to live out that call every day.”
Speaking to Catholic Communication Solomon Islands, Vicar General Fr. Peter Chele highlighted the significance of the retreat for the clergy. “This is more than just a break from our usual routines,” he said. “It is a sacred time to reconnect with our faith, nurture our spiritual lives, and draw closer to God. The retreat provides an opportunity for deep prayer, meditation, and reflection, enabling us to return to our communities renewed and inspired to serve.”
The retreat, which spans a week, is being led by Rev. Fr. Rafael, SDB, Rector of Don Bosco Technical Institution, as the retreat master. He will guide the priests through sessions of prayer and meditation, offering insights into the pursuit of holiness and the practical application of the retreat’s theme in their pastoral ministry.
This gathering underscores the unity and shared mission of the Catholic Church in Solomon Islands, as priests come together to grow in faith, holiness, and service…
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-Catholic Communication Solomon
