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Annual Retreat of Capuchin
Friars: Infant Jesus Delegation, Nagaland-Manipur
The Capuchin friars of the Infant Jesus Delegation, Nagaland-Manipur,
experienced a profound spiritual renewal during their annual retreat held
from July 9 to 13, 2025. The retreat was animated by Fr. Tom, SDB, a
preacher known for his deep insights and spiritual zeal. The retreat
commenced on the evening of July 9 at 8:45 PM with an introductory talk that
set the tone for the days that followed.
The retreat, hosted at Capuchin House Dimapur, brought together friars from
various houses across the region. It was a time of grace, silence, and
reflection, offering a much-needed spiritual pause in the midst of pastoral
and missionary commitments.
A Journey of Interior Healing and Prayer
Fr. Tom’s talks were rich in Scripture, reflection, and practical
spirituality. He addressed various aspects of religious life, with a focus
on healing and transformation. One of the prominent themes of the retreat
was “The Holy Spirit”. Drawing inspiration from John 14:26, “But the Helper,
the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all
things,” Fr. Tom reminded the friars of the Holy Spirit’s constant presence
and active role in their vocation.
Another central theme was healing and forgiveness, with a call to introspect
and let go of past wounds. Referencing Psalm 147:3, “He heals the
broken-hearted and binds up their wounds,” Fr. Tom led the friars to
surrender areas of hurt, pride, and unforgiveness in prayer. He stressed
that genuine healing begins with forgiveness, both receiving and giving it
freely.
Prayer: A Sacred Encounter with God
The retreat emphasized the essence of prayer, not merely as a routine,
but as a dynamic encounter with God. Fr. Tom beautifully expanded the
acronym P.R.A.Y.E.R., offering a deep meditation on each aspect:
• P – Presence of God: Cultivating an awareness of God in every moment.
(Psalm 46:10 – “Be still and know that I am God.”)
• R – Recollection: Bringing back a scattered mind into God’s focus.
• A – Attitude: The heart’s disposition – humility, trust, and openness.
• Y – Yearning: A deep thirst for God, like the deer that longs for streams
of water (Psalm 42:1).
• E – Enlightenment: Letting God’s Word enlighten the soul and guide
decisions.
• R – Resolution: Making firm decisions to amend life and grow in virtue.
Each morning began with a reflective talk, Eucharistic celebration and each
evening concluded with the Adoration to Blessed Sacrament, where the
preacher continued the day’s theme in his talk. The depth of spiritual
insight offered during talks and Mass was both challenging and uplifting.
Combatting Selfishness and Embracing Community
Fr. Tom did not shy away from addressing the issue of selfishness in
religious life. Referring to Philippians 2:3–4, “Do nothing out of selfish
ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above
yourselves,” he emphasized the importance of selfless service and community
living. He reminded the friars that their religious commitment calls for a
life of total gift, not comfort.
Mary: Model of Discipleship and Intercession
One of the deeply moving moments of the retreat was the reflection on
Mother Mary. Fr. Tom presented Mary as the perfect model of surrender,
humility, and intercession. Quoting Luke 1:38, “Behold, I am the servant of
the Lord; let it be to me according to your word,” he called on the friars
to imitate her trust and obedience to God’s will.
The preacher highlighted Mary’s silent yet powerful role at key moments of
salvation history—from the Annunciation to Calvary—and encouraged the friars
to invoke her daily in their ministries.
Final Day: Living a Life of Gratitude
The retreat concluded with a powerful message on gratitude. Fr. Tom
invited the friars to recognize God’s abundant blessings in their lives and
ministries. Reflecting on 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “Give thanks in all
circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you,” he
urged everyone to cultivate a grateful heart, even amid trials and
uncertainties.
The final day ended with a solemn Eucharistic celebration on July 13, where
the friars renewed their commitment and left the retreat filled with joy,
peace, and spiritual vigour.
Attendees and Locations
The retreat witnessed participation from several friars representing
different fraternities:
• St. Clare Friary, Akuluto: Fr. Stephen D’Souza & Fr. James Furtado
• Capuchin House, Dimapur: Fr Isaac Baptist, Fr. John Peter and Fr Gerald
Veigas
• Infant Jesus Friary, Kuhuboto: Fr. Brayan D’Souza & Fr. Roshan Sequeira
• St. Francis Friary, Lazami: Fr. Paul Inashe & Fr. Melvin Anthony Pradeep
• St. Thomas Friary, Tamlu: Fr. Justine Sumi & Fr. David Sale
• St. Francis of Assisi Friary, Nongdum: Fr. Manoj D’Souza, Fr. Roshan
Pereira & Fr. Christopher
• St. Joseph Friary, Choithar: Fr. Yesudas & Fr. Anil Kumar
Their presence and active participation made the retreat more enriching,
fostering fraternity and deeper communion among the friars.
Conclusion: A Time of Renewal and Grace
The five-day retreat was not just a time of silence and prayer but a true
encounter with the Lord. It reminded every friar of the beauty of their
vocation, the power of forgiveness, the strength of prayer, and the joy of
fraternity. The retreat, steeped in biblical reflections and personal
sharing, will remain a spiritual landmark for the delegation.
As they return to their respective missions, the words of Romans 12:11 echo
in their hearts: “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour,
serving the Lord.” With renewed hearts and minds, the Capuchin friars
continue their journey of love, service, and discipleship.
Report by Fr Stephen Dsouza, Capuchin
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