Annual Retreat Held at Mar Sleeva College of Nursing
Cherpunkal, Pala:* An annual spiritual retreat was organized for the nursing students and faculty of Mar Sleeva College of Nursing. The retreat was conducted under the leadership of Fr. Thomas Kanjirakonam, Director of Assisi, Bharananganam, jointly organized by *Jesus Youth Pala and the Nurses Ministry.
The special retreat, held at Assisi for nursing students and teachers, turned out to be a blessed spiritual experience for all participants. Amid the busy and demanding nature of the nursing profession, the retreat offered an opportunity for spiritual renewal and inner peace.
The program included Holy Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, meditation sessions, preaching of the Word, testimonies, group discussions, and music ministry. Through the retreat, participants were reminded of the importance of viewing the service of caring for patients as a divine calling and performing their duties with compassion and dedication.
The *Nurses Ministry, which works for the spiritual and mental growth of nurses, conducts various initiatives to help them overcome the challenges they face in their profession. The ministry’s key activities include **prayer gatherings, fellowship, spiritual formation, counseling, and experience sharing. It also emphasizes spiritual growth based on the *Six Pillars of Jesus Youth spirituality.
The ministry plans to further strengthen prayer meetings, spiritual formation programs, and fellowship gatherings in the future for both students and working nurses.
The retreat was led by Fr. Thomas Kanjirakonam and Fr. Jose Velassery. Spiritual guidance and testimonies were also shared by Sr. Christy Babu (MSMI), Dr. Mammen (Prolife), Dr. Salo Maxo, Mr. Abhilash, Mr. Vinu, Ms. Sona, Ms. Amala, and Ms. Maria, all members of Jesus Youth.
The music ministry by the team and a special performance by the Kappippodi Band added to the spiritual atmosphere of the retreat.
According to Rev. Dr. Joseph Kuzhiyalil, Director of Mar Sleeva College, the retreat held at Assisi became a significant initiative in strengthening nurses spiritually so that they can continue to share God’s love through their service.
