The priests of the Apostolic Vicariate of Iquitos concluded a week-long spiritual retreat held from Monday, May 4, to Thursday, May 7, at the “Kanatari” retreat house, in an atmosphere marked by prayer, priestly fraternity, and pastoral reflection.
During these days of fellowship and spiritual encounter, the priests deepened their understanding of their vocation and evangelizing mission amid the social, cultural, and pastoral challenges of the Amazon. The retreat culminated with the celebration of the Eucharist presided over by B Bishop Miguel Ángel CadenasB , who encouraged the priests to continue being signs of hope, communion, and service for the People of God.
The experience was illuminated by the words of Pope Leo XIV in his Message to Priests on the occasion of the Day of Priestly Sanctification 2025, in which he recalled that the priestly ministry is called to build bridges of reconciliation and peace amid the tensions plaguing the world today.
“In a world marked by growing tensions, even within families and ecclesial communities, the priest is called to promote reconciliation and foster communion (…) Being builders of unity and peace does not mean imposing oneself, but serving,” said the Holy Father.
This retreat provided an opportunity to strengthen the spirituality, priestly communion, and pastoral commitment of the priests who accompany Amazonian communities, reaffirming the importance of a Church that is close to the people, merciful, and committed to the lives of the peoples of the Amazon.
The Ecclesial Conference of the Amazon (CEAMA) values these kinds of spaces that strengthen the spiritual and pastoral life of those who serve in the Amazonian territories, promoting a synodal, incarnate Church at the service of reconciliation and fraternity.