CHRISTIAN RETREAT
our inspiration
Our Charism is like a tree!
In spring the tree buds
It bursts into life and produces new shoots. Refreshing rain soaks down to the depths of its roots quickening its growth. It begins to stretch and reach out opening itself up to new life and warmth, effortlessly loving and sharing and giving of its very being. Eager to be ‘about the Fathers business’ it works to bring life and breath to others, and in doing so brings more life into its own heart.
The ‘Father’ is always creating new life.
In summer the leaves are green:
The tree is busy with the work of the ‘Father’ feeding and
sheltering those in need. It never tires in the heat of the day, but draws
up strength from its core to continue its great and glorious work of looking
verdant and beautiful and the first signs of fruiting.
The ‘Father’ never picks unripe fruit from its branches.
In autumn the leaves fall:
The work of harvest begins; it is the moment to pick the ripe fruit before the frost comes. The quality of the fruit is assessed and sorted some of it for eating, some of it for pressing some of it for compost. The tree is pruned in order that it will produce more abundantly next year.
The ‘Father’ always picks ripe fruit.
In winter the tree is bare:
The year’s work is done. The tree rests. It draws back into the
silence and stillness and in the dark renews its innermost being; it contemplates
its purpose, its wealth and all that is true. There is nothing else for
the tree to do but wait in hope for the coming of spring.
The ‘Father’ always comes in spring.