Advent Retreat at St Mary’s Convent, Handsworth

Over the last weekend in November, nineteen Sisters (mostly Sisters of Mercy) gathered at St Mary’s Convent Handsworth for a Pre-Advent Retreat led by Fr David Smolira SJ.  The retreat was based on a letter written by Pope Francis in February 2022, concerning the Jubilee Year 2025.  Fr David highlighted themes from the letter for his talks each day with lots of scripture references for us to read and prayerfully ponder.  The fruits of this retreat will enable us to experience the coming Holy Year “Pilgrims of Hope” with much prayer, interest, joy and enthusiasm in our communities, homes, churches and places of ministry.
The community at St Mary’s warmly welcomed us all and their hospitality was just wonderful, delicious meals served, comfortable accommodation and beautiful reflective spaces.  The house and atmosphere of the place leant itself to the creation of a very prayerful and enriching retreat.


Sister Mary Horgan RSM
December 2024.