A Sacred Space for Renewal and Reflection
On Saturday, March 22, 2025, religious men and women from across the Archdiocese of Kingston came together for a moving day of prayer and reflection at the Immaculate Conception Convent. United in spirit and fellowship, this special gathering created a sacred space for renewal under the theme: “Pilgrims of Hope.”
The day began with a reverent invocation of Scripture and song, led by Sr. Georgeanne Marie Donnovan SMSM. Her deep spirituality and love for sacred music drew all into a contemplative reflection on a Gospel passage from St. Mark.
Pilgrims of Hope: Signs of Light in Challenging Times
Fr. Ramesh Vanan SJ served as the day’s spiritual guide, opening with a personal invitation: “What is one thing you hope for?” This question sparked small group conversations about the signs of hope that still shine in today’s world—even amid uncertainty and pain.
Fr. Ramesh’s presentation offered a rich explanation of the Jubilee 2025 logo, breaking down its visual elements and their theological significance. He encouraged all present to live with intentionality as Pilgrims of Hope—people who seek and share the light of Christ even in places burdened by despair.
“Our witness is not passive,” he said. “It is a bold statement of faith that refuses to give in to hopelessness.”
Time with the Lord: Adoration, Confession, and Community
After the keynote session, participants entered into a time of Eucharistic Adoration and personal prayer. Sacramental confession was offered to all who wished to renew their hearts before the Lord. It was a grace-filled moment that allowed space for silence, healing, and spiritual intimacy.
The community then came together over a humble and symbolic soup and bread meal, lovingly donated by the Missionaries of the Poor, the Franciscan/Servite Sisters, and the Marist Brothers—a gesture of solidarity that reflected the simplicity and unity of religious life.
A Day of Unity and Forward Vision
The day concluded with group sharing, where participants spoke of renewed purpose and plans for future gatherings. There was a shared desire to continue meeting, not only for formation and fellowship but to celebrate the gift of religious life and its vital place in the Church and the world.
This memorable gathering left all participants with a renewed sense of mission: to walk as pilgrims of faith and hope, supporting each other as signs of God’s love in a hurting world.
📍 Upcoming Gathering:
Plans are already underway for the next Archdiocesan Religious Life Prayer Day. Stay connected through your community superior or diocesan liaison for dates and location.