Through the Eyes of the Saints
On Monday the of the Holy Spirit, 85 parishioners gathered together as one family for Saint Paul’s spiritual day retreat, themed ‘Through the Eyes of the Saints’.
Starting the day in the church, Abouna provided the group with an inspiring talk about saints being our extended Orthodox heavenly family, and the important role they have in our lives, as role models, intercessors and protectors. The group was then introduced to some of the saints that belong to our parish family and reside on the inconostasis, as well as numerous relics belonging to saints whom we are so blessed to have residing with us in our humble Dandenong parish.
Following a quick morning tea break, retreat attendees were split into 4 groups for the second session of the day.
Taking the adults, Abouna spoke about how to make the saints alive in our every day lives through the means provided by the Church. Using arrow prayers dedicated to saints, troparions, hymns, Synaxarions, services such as Akathists and Paraklesis, each help the Orthodox faithful to get to know Saints. The group were also introduced to a number of saints who are great role models in our lives.
Teenagers and young adults, were treated to a talk by Kh. Rita who introduced them to a recently recognised Antiochian Orthodox Saint, Raphael of Brooklyn, Good shepherd of the lost sheep in America. After learning about his life and missionary journey across America, the group finished the session learning and chanting his troparion.
Primary school children had a session with Jessica and Vanessa, who spoke to the group about saints being ‘friends of God’ who ‘followed Christ’ and how we too can have the reward of eternal life by imitating their love for Christ. Children also learnt about the different types of Saints and how each are uniquely depicted in orthodox icons.
Our youngest attendees, toddlers and babies, were also treated to a session led by Hayley, which allowed them time to play and take part in a Saint themed activity.
Following the edifying sessions, the group gathered together in the main hall for lunch, fellowship and a friendly Kahoot quiz, with questions which tested everyone’s memory on things learnt in each of the sessions!
To end the spiritually edifying day, the group came together in the church for a Paraklesis Service, dedicated to our ultimate role model and protectress the Theotokos. May she and all the saints intercede in all our lives!
