Saturday 27 July was a cold, wet day in Bendigo; the perfect day for Fr Junray Rayna’s second Winter Spiritual Retreat. “For me, winter is a season for enjoying the company of friends in the warmth and comfort of home,” said Fr Junray. “I led this reflection day enjoying spiritual conversation with friends. I am no expert in spirituality; I like the idea that lay parishioners can deepen their knowledge of God in Christian spirituality by enjoying a spiritual conversation over coffee in the thick of a cold, wintry day.”
The conversation focused on the wisdom of the Desert Fathers and Mothers and the importance of solitude. It then followed the Christian mystics of the Middle Ages who sought a more direct and meaningful relationship with God through meditation and prayer, including the Beguines, Julian Norwich, and Thomas Merton.
St Kilian’s parishioner, Brenda Verbeek commends Fr Junray on the Winter Spirituality Series. “They open us up to a fuller understanding of our faith,” she says. “I’m in a graced time of my life. For years I was active with other things, and now, I have time to meditate, think, and develop a deeper understanding of things. I’m still growing in faith. I’ve learned that solitude is important; it’s important to be quiet and listen to God,” she says.
Parishioner, Ray Taylor says he enjoyed the day with others. “It’s always interesting to meet with other people; familiar parishioners, and people I haven’t met before. Almost everyone present commented on how joyful and fulfilling they found the day.”
“There was a lot to take away from the day and I’m sure there will be times ahead when something I’ve learned will speak to me just as I need that wisdom. You’re never too old to learn more about our faith and there’s always more to learn.”
In June, the Spirituality Retreat day touched on foundational topics such as ‘What is prayer?’; the importance of silence; different ways of praying; and praying with art and nature,” says Fr Junray. “In August we are heading to Santa Casa in Queenscliff for a three-day retreat on Carmelite Spirituality.”
“We are like little seeds that grow interiorly so that when spring comes, we flourish a little and are ready to serve our community,” says Fr Junray.
If you would like to learn more about St Kilian's Winter Spiritual Series, please go to the St Kilian's Facebook page, or contact Fr Junray at the Parish Office on Tel: 5441 6244
