Pope urges to popularize retreats

March 03, 2014 - Men and women of today feel the need to encounter God, to know Him, not merely to hear about Him. Pope Francis made this point in his talk to some 200 participants in the general assembly of FIES, the Italian federation of spiritual exercises or retreats, that is marking 50 years of its foundation. Spiritual exercises, the Pope noted are an invitation to experience God, His love and beauty. One who truly lives the retreat, experiences attraction and fascination for God and returns to normal daily life renewed and transfigured bearing with him or her the perfume of Christ. The Pope thus called for support to retreat houses and centres with well-formed personnel and preachers who are prepared with doctrinal and spiritual qualities. He urged that the tradition of spiritual exercises and retreats be spread, supported and appreciated.