A teachers’ recollection with the theme: Called to Teach and Renew was held at the Centre for Ignatian Spirituality and Counselling from Fri 28 Aug 7pm to Sat 29 Aug 5pm.
Five Catholic educators from Primary and Kindergarten grasped this opportunity to refresh and renew spiritually during this one evening and a day. Although the group was small, it encompassed a good mixture of experiences representing a principal, teacher, RE-coordinator and religious. Generously, Fr Colin Tan S.J accompanied the retreatants by teaching Ignatian contemplation, examining of conscious, and giving three inspiring talks on:
- The vocation of Teaching- Learning from Jesus the Teacher.
- The Tradition- Handing on Wisdom and Knowledge for life.
- The Sources of Renewal- Self Awareness, Silence and the Sacred.
Participants were able to sink-in the mood of recollection with the help of the serene atmosphere around the retreat house. Sharing on personal prayer and reflection in the group was deep and consoling. Moreover, Fr Colin Tan facilitated Individual Spiritual Direction to nurture the spiritual growth for the participants. The graces that the participants have received were revealed in their evaluation as:
“…it helps me to connect with God.”
“I was able to refocus and renew the spiritual within.”
“It was time out to centre and focus so that I’m able to discern God in my life.”
“Talk, sharing, personal prayer/reflection, rest and break…are the most valuable for me.”
“The scriptural text and selected prayer exercises and the silence opportunity led me to reflect... Fr Colin‘s time with the individual participants is appreciated.”
ACCS would like to express our great appreciation to Fr Colin Tan S.J for stretching his time to attend the spiritual need of catholic educators and also to the teachers who took a great effort to nurture their spiritual growth.
