‘Hearts open to the world’ is a collaborative day organised by Caritas, with opportunities for recollection, refreshment and resolution to equip and encourage you for mission.
Christ’s love has to be shared to be truly known. He calls us to an adventure beyond borders, where we discover God, ourselves, each other, but also what’s really going on for the poor and discarded of our world.
There is always more to learn about his unique call to us. Join Caritas for its first-ever retreat day in the prayerful surroundings of Mount St Bernard’s Abbey, where we can discern our call to mission more deeply.
There will be a blend of voices to guide us - from Scripture, the Second Vatican Council, Pope Francis and the recent worldwide Synod, and spiritual conversation with friends old and new. As well as discerning our own vocation in 2026 and beyond, we’ll help to build a shared response to Bishop Patrick’s invitation in the Diocesan Mission Plan.
The programme starts at 10.00 a.m. and includes opportunities to:
• map the ‘joys and hopes, griefs and anxieties’ of today’s world which, as Gaudium et Spes said over 60 years ago, continue to echo clearly in our hearts
• celebrate the gifts which can shape your unique response, including gifts of the Spirit and your heart’s desire, abilities, personality and experience
• explore how we can grow as a community of faith where everyone’s gifts and vocation flourish and God’s kingdom can come closer.
There will be times of silence and conversation, times to join the monks’ daily round of prayer, and even time to browse the books at the Abbey’s renowned giftshop. The day closes at 4.00 p.m. following a liturgy to commission each other for service. If you are able to take part, it won’t end there - its legacy will be long-lasting, for Caritas and, we hope, for you too.
What's coming up
