Sharing of thoughts

Since times immemorial, parishioners' sharing of thoughts has been an important element of a religious function. Even a Lenten retreat is no exception. It is no longer limited to Bible reading, prayer and personal meditation under the guidance of a priest or sister. There is a lot of emphasis on interaction and exchange of experiences among the parishioners. Personally, I think a retreat thus conducted is more effectual in reflecting on religious problems and accelerating one’s spiritual growth.

During the four Lenten retreats this year, our speakers shared about their spiritual paths and prayer experiences. We are incapable of committing to memory every word they said, nor do we have the need to do so. However, the messages their talks conveyed have already been imprinted on our hearts without our awareness. I believe that from now on, whenever I happen to be walking on a cobble-stone-paved street, I will remember how Mr. Ng Wai Meng described the long straight road that links up Macau’s oldest churches, comparing it to our path of faith. Besides, the sight of warriors wrestling will be reminiscent of Mr. Ho Su Sun’s explanation of how we can establish a relationship with God through prayer. Ah Ching’s joy when she shared her conversion to Christianity also fills me with gratitude for having been blessed with the identity as God’s child.

Above all, I was most impressed by Pauline’s sharing. We have known Pauline as a shy and quiet girl who is generous in offering her service but does not talk much. Out of everyone’s expectation, however, she gave a very inspiring talk with great eloquence on Friday evening. She gave a detailed account of her prayer experience that was so true and sincere. That was because her talk was based not only on ideas acquired from books but more on her personal life and experience. She was actually sharing about her living, about her life.

After the talk and the meditation that followed, the rest of us also commented on our reflection on the retreat. Fr. Peter’s brief round-up and prayer gave the retreat a full stop.

In reality personal testimonies are very meaningful. Besides listening to others’ stories, we should also try to share with others our thoughts and beliefs. As Fr. Peter said, this also underlines the message implied in the Sacrament of Holy Communion, which commemorates Jesus sharing His life with us.