Archbishop Gabriel Malzaire says this year’s priests’ retreat has strengthened unity among clergy in the Archdiocese of Castries and reinforced the call to spiritual renewal.
The retreat was held Monday, February 23 to Friday 27, at the Benedictine Abbey of the Assumption in St Lucia. The Archbishop of Castries said the initiative forms part of a three-year journey with Fr Gerard McGlone SJ aimed at deepening trust and collaboration among priests.
He explained that the theme Walking Together as Men of Faith, Called to Conversion, Communion and Peace in the Spirit of St Francis of Assisi was also influenced by the Church’s observance of the 800th anniversary of St Francis of Assisi.
Reflecting on his arrival at the diocese four years ago, Archbishop Malzaire admitted that unity was a concern.
“There was felt a lot of division among the clergy. The question of the level of trust among the clergy was low and I just thought that we should find some way of dealing with that,” he said.
The Archbishop said ongoing exercises and discussions have helped foster stronger bonds.
“Things are beginning to gel. There’s a greater sense of comfort in each other. I would say to the level of people loving each other and being selfless about what we do.”
Archbishop Malzaire also acknowledged natural competition within institutions but stressed the importance of focusing on the Church’s mission.
“We have to look at the bigger picture that we are a people on mission. The Church is a mission and what is the mission of the Church? To really help the people of God to experience salvation.”
The Archbishop noted that feedback from priests at the end of the retreat was “really positive”, with many recognising the value of working together “for the benefit of others.”
Commenting on the issue of conversion beginning within the priesthood itself, Archbishop emphasised the responsibility clergy carry.
“It is the priest who is on fire who can convert a whole community.”
He added that members of the public closely observe the priesthood and expect strong leadership.
“People are definitely looking up to us… but by and large people are looking for leadership and when they do not find it in the Church, it is certainly something that is sad for them.”
The Archbishop described Lent as a critical period for self-examination and growth. “Lent is a unique period, an invaluable period. It’s a period that helps us to introspect, to see where we are with God.”
He said the season offers an opportunity for both clergy and laity to reflect, renew their commitment to the Gospel, and strive for continued spiritual progress.
“And the beautiful thing about the Catholic philosophy is that it is repeated. Every year we have the opportunity to repeat it, so that by the time we get to next year, I should have made improvements by then. I should not get into next year with the same disposition that I have today.”
By Kaelanne Jordan
mediarelations.camsel@catholictt.org
