From April 6 to 10, religious men and women from the Conferência dos Religiosos do Brasil in São Gabriel da Cachoeira experienced a profound time of spirituality, silence, and inner renewal during their annual retreat, marked by listening to the Word and strengthening their missionary vocation in the Amazon.
The gathering was led by B Bishop Raimundo VanthuyB , who guided the reflections based on the Gospel passage of the Wedding at Cana, inviting the participants to rediscover the meaning of discipleship in consecrated life.
A Call to “Do Whatever He Tells You”
With a motto inspired by the Gospel—“Do whatever he tells you” (Jn 2:5)—the retreat focused on renewing openness to Christ’s call, amidst the pastoral and social challenges facing the Amazonian peoples.
In an atmosphere of prayer, contemplation, and fraternity, the consecrated were invited to deepen their relationship with God, recognizing His living presence in their daily mission and in the realities of the communities they accompany.
Incarnate Spirituality in the Amazon
The retreat was a space for interiority and communal discernment regarding the role of religious life in the Amazonian Church. In a region marked by cultural diversity, the spiritual richness of indigenous peoples, and multiple socio-environmental challenges, consecrated life reaffirms its commitment to being a close, prophetic, and servant-like presence.
The participants renewed their conviction that discipleship involves listening, trusting, and allowing oneself to be transformed by Christ, who continues to perform signs of life and hope in the Amazon.
A time of grace and communion
This inter-congregational retreat was experienced as a true time of grace, in which each religious sister and brother was able to rediscover their vocation, strengthen their identity, and renew their commitment to the service of the Gospel.
For the Church in the Amazon, such spaces are essential for sustaining the mission, cultivating spirituality, and continuing to walk together in a synodal spirit, in service to life, the peoples, and our Common Home.