6. Retreat: A Spring Cleaning for Our Soul

In Episode 6 of the Veil + Armour podcast, Sheila shares some insights she had gained from attending a recent silent retreat for women. She debunks her top three excuses for the necessity of an annual retreat: no time, no money, no need for it.

Sheila also shares a talk by her friend, Ina, during the retreat. A mother of six, Ina shared her reflection on Jesus' Parable of Salt and Light, and how we are being called to share the salt of our example, to share the flavour of the Gospel, through our words and in the example of our daily life. This doesn't mean, however, that we are perfect all the time. Ina shares that our imperfections can also draw people to our witness, to make us more relatable. Ina encouraged the women at the retreat to deepen their relationship with God, by knowing Him through Scripture, by reaching out to Our Blessed Mother through praying the Holy Rosary, and to seeking the guidance and inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

Sheila also discusses the link between a spiritual retreat and a spring cleaning of our souls. The season of spring is a season of renewal, just like a retreat can be a time of prayer, reflection and contemplation, which can lead to a renewal of faith, a rejuvenation of our soul, and a new perspective on our life's purpose.

There is also a discussion on cherry blossoms, which are in peak season in early Spring and a brief look at a book about faith and conversion  in Japan through the experience of Opus Dei. Finally, Sheila links the theme of the book, "Holiness for Housewives and Other Working Women" to the theme of retreats, her friend, Ina's talk, cherry blossom season, and the book, "When the Cherry Trees Blossomed: The Expansion of Opus Dei in Japan." The overall theme has been an invitation and a call to develop a closer relationship with God, and to take steps towards experiencing a springtime of faith and spiritual renewal.

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