3895(I)_The SIHM Sisters annual retreat

By Sr. Maliwan Paramatthawirote, SIHM
Superior general

Hua Hin, Thailand - During the first week of January 2016 a group of 28 SIHM Sisters had their annual retreat at their Mother House, Hua Hin, Prachuabkirikhan, Thailand. The retreat had been guided by Rev.Jose Parappulli, SDB from India. Most of the retreatants were councilors of the Congregation, the communities’ Superiors and councillors or administrators of schools.

Rev.Jose Parappulli gave some information for the retreat participants: “The retreat will be in complete silence except for the sharing during Mass, Evening prayer and the session. (All external contact to be avoided, including use of phones, internet, newspapers…) The Mass wiil be celebrated in the morning, only one talk in the morning, one hour of prayer before the Blessed Sacrament together in the evening."

“Rest of the time to be spent praying with scripture on selected passages according to the themes of the day. Sisters are expected to put in about four hours or prayer every day.”

It was a clear agreement between us for a fruitful retreat. Silence and stay with the Lord ! All sisters followed it faithfully through the week. Though many retreatants could not understand fully English, Rev.Jose’s well prepared hand-outs, power points projected with many inspirational songs and Thai translator helped them a lot. The most important thing was time to be personally with the Lord in solitude, desert experience, with many questions for reflections.

The closing with the Eucharistic celebration and thanks giving to God and all on Sat.9 Jan. in the morning. All departed for their daily life filled with joy and more enthusiasm. Thanks be to God and to Rev.Father Jose Parappulli, SDB. for this moving experience!