By Purushottam Nayak –
Visakhapatnam: The 50th Annual Retreat of priests from the Archdiocese of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar from the eastern Indian state of Odisha concluded recently at Dhyan Ashram, Chinna Waltair, Visakhapatnam, marking a milestone in five decades of spiritual renewal. Held from November 17 to 28, the retreat focused on rekindling priestly identity and mission under the theme “Reignite: Retreat for India’s Priests.”
Hosted by the Missionaries of St. Francis de Sales (MSFS), the retreat brought together clergy from across the archdiocese for 12 days of reflection, prayer, and fellowship. Father Thumma Mariadas Reddy, MSFS, General Councilor and Secretary for Missions, led the sessions with a dynamic approach rooted in Scripture and contemporary pastoral realities.
Deepening the Ministry
In his message to participants, Archbishop John Barwa, SVD, of the Archdiocese of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar, described the retreat as a “privileged moment of grace” in the life of every priest. “It is a time to renew our spiritual strength, deepen our communion with Christ, and recommit ourselves to our pastoral mission,” he said, citing Canon Law’s reminder for clergy to dedicate time annually for spiritual renewal. He prayed that “Mary, Star of Evangelization,” would guide and strengthen priests during their days of reflection.
Fr. Mariadas structured the retreat around self-discovery and pastoral renewal, posing reflective questions such as Who am I? Where am I? What should I become? and What should I do? His teachings explored priestly life through vivid metaphors—iron, diamond, deer, candle, clock, chessboard, lion, yoke, clay, and potter—each revealing dimensions of character, endurance, and purpose.
Rekindling Faith and Fraternity
The retreat schedule combined meditation, Eucharistic celebrations, personal prayer, and group reflection. Priests were also encouraged to explore the evangelical vows of chastity, obedience, and poverty in the context of modern pastoral challenges.
Beyond spiritual enrichment, the gathering served as a space for fraternity and mutual support. “Retreats like these remind us that we are not alone in our mission—they reignite our purpose,” said one participant. Many clergy spoke of renewed clarity and commitment as they prepared to return to their parishes.
Fr. Ramesh Kumar Balliar Singh, Manager of St. Joseph’s School, Kendrapara, described it as “one of the best retreats we’ve ever had—spirit-filled and transformative.”
Moving Forward
As the 2025 “Reignite” retreat drew to a close, organizers emphasized the ongoing need for spiritual formation and collaboration among priests across the Cuttack-Bhubaneswar Archdiocese. The golden jubilee year of the retreat underscored its enduring role as a cornerstone of priestly life—offering not just reflection, but rejuvenation for service in an ever-changing world.
With the event hailed as a resounding success, plans are already underway for next year’s edition, as the Archdiocese continues its mission to strengthen the spiritual backbone of India’s pastoral leadership.