Thanks to the Passionists Holy Spirit Province for their support in making it possible in March for Tim McDade (Passionist Young adults retreat presenter from Brisbane and joint Brisbane team leader with his wife Jo) to spend a weekend in Palmerston North.
“Wow” is the only way to describe it. Where else in the world can you enter a room full of random teenagers and within the next 10 minutes feel totally comfortable, accepted and most importantly loved. Being surrounded by this 4 day cushion of inclusiveness, kindness, and inspiration from retreat goers and leaders really heals all wounds spiritually and mentally and is the best place to grow and learn to accept not only your own unique beauty but accept the uniqueness and beauty of everyone else.
This was my 3rd Passionist youth retreat and every time I’ve learned things about myself I otherwise wouldn’t have. I can confidently say I wouldn’t be the happy, accepting person I am today without retreat. I would recommend to absolutely anyone from year 9-13 regardless of where they are in their faith journey. The great thing about retreat is it meets you where you’re at and gives you plenty of opportunity to simply be listened to, something missing in today’s everyday society. So if you’re looking for acceptance and new perceptions for yourself, this is the place to be.
It’s be awesome to see more people being able to experience what I’ve experienced so I encourage everyone to tell anyone and everyone- hope to see you there.
Sinead.