Jesus Encounter Retreat organised by the Bombay Service Team was held from 24th to 25th May 2013 at Vinayalaya, Andheri East. There were 101 participants from all over the city. Fifty percent of the participants were youth. The retreat began with the beautiful praise and worship led by St. Anthony's Prayer group, Vakola. Carlos D'Souza, Thomas Theknath, Ian D'Souza, Hyacinth Rebeiro, Fr. Roland Fiahlo, Fr. Daniel Fernandes and Derick Fernandes shared the Word of God and their experiences thus touching every life attending the retreat. Love of God, Surrender, Repentance, No Condemnation, Power of the Holy Spirit, Marriage, Family relationships, Boy-Girl Relationship, Blessing and curses, Sacraments and many other topics were shared during this retreat. Based on the Word of God, the repentance and inner healing session conducted by Jesus the Real Vine ministry, was life changing. Learning to totally surrender to God, the participants humbled themselves and reconciled with God and man surrendering the unwanted load they were carrying for several years at the foot of the Cross. The Anointing of the Holy Spirit filled the vacuum and empowered them to go forth to be Witnesses for Christ.
Special thanks to Fr. Swami, Principal of Holy Family School, Andheri East, for blessing us with an AC Hall. Heartfelt gratitude to Sr. Mary and the entire Administration team of Vinayalaya for making the stay so comfortable and the food so enjoyable. Praise the Lord, bless His Holy name.