A Time of Grace: Chikmagalur Priests Gather for
Spiritual Renewal
The Annual Clergy Retreat of the Diocese of
Chikmagalur was held from 21st to 25th July
2025, offering a sacred time of silence,
reflection, and spiritual renewal for the
priests of the Diocese. The retreat served as an
important opportunity for the clergy to deepen
their relationship with Christ, renew their
priestly commitment, and grow in fraternity.
This year, we were blessed to have Very Rev. Fr.
Xavier Manavath, CMF, a distinguished Claretian
priest and renowned preacher, to animate the
retreat. With profound theological insights,
practical wisdom, and a deeply prayerful
presence, Fr. Xavier guided the participants
through the retreat's theme: "Renewed in Spirit,
Rekindled in Mission."
Highlights of the Retreat:
-*- Daily Eucharistic Celebrations: Celebrated
with devotion, focusing on the themes of
priestly identity, pastoral zeal, and
Eucharistic spirituality.
-*- Meditative Preaching Sessions: Fr. Xavier's
reflections drew from Scripture, Church
teachings, and his own pastoral experiences,
inspiring the clergy to return to the heart of
their vocation.
-*- Adoration and Silent Prayer: Ample time was
set aside each day for personal prayer,
adoration, and silent contemplation, nurturing
interior renewal.
-*- Sacrament of Reconciliation: Priests availed
themselves of the opportunity for confession,
experiencing God's healing mercy.
-*- Fraternal Bonding: While the retreat
maintained a spirit of silence, moments of
shared meals and community presence fostered
unity and brotherhood among the clergy.
Reflections from the Retreat:
Fr. Xavier emphasized the importance of the
inner life of a priest, rooted in prayer and
Eucharistic intimacy. He invited the clergy to
live their priesthood as servant-leaders, marked
by compassion, humility, and fidelity to Christ.
He also challenged them to engage with the
changing realities of pastoral ministry with
courage and creativity, guided by the Holy
Spirit.
On the Final Day Most Rev Dr T. Anthony Swamy,
Bishop of Chikmagalur offered Requiem Mass for
the Departed Clergy of the Diocese.
Fr Anil Lobo and Fr Alwyn Joe Commission for Communication and Media Diocese of Chikmagalur
