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Retreat for 55 plus: overflowing hope renews our life

The 55 plus retreat was held from Monday 16th till Sunday 22nd of September around 4 pm, after the day conference of the APC-FPC churches of the Metz centre (US center). Those present were invited to reflect on the topic: how our life can be renewed by an overflowing hope.

A wonderful week spent together, especially with our faithful Good Shepherd, also because of a theme which spoke to the hearts of all present, and finally thanks to the warm and friendly relations we had with one another, not forgetting the excellent meals prepared by a professional cook assisted by a team which waited hand and foot on the whole of our little group.

A week of rich teaching on the topic of hope

Tuesday 17th: Hope – who are you? André Schwab

Wednesday 18th: We are finite: is there an answer and if so, what? Roland N.

Thursday 19th: Hope in daily experience: utopia or realism? Arnaud W.

Friday 20th: The Hope of the world to come. Roland N.

Saturday 21st: Setting off for a journey towards a life renewed by hope. New perspectives? André Schwab

After the morning teaching, the speakers also had us discuss in small groups.

Some questions to reflect on

How can I be sure my hope is not just a pious wish?

Is there a difference between faith and hope?

What do you expect from teaching about hope?

How do you come to terms with your questions on the subject of death?

What has led to all the distress and sadness in  the world?

Jesus is waiting for you, do you believe it? Why? Why not?

Have we experienced that God gas a plan for us? If so, how?

How can we combat daily doubts?

Are we too absorbed in the task in hand? Failure to appreciate? Does our way of thinking need to be renewed?

Are we looking forward to a new world? What will it be like?

After this week together how would you define hope?

What steps do you intend to take to lead a life renewed by hope?

The teaching sessions were followed by lunch at 12.15, then lazing about, a walk, a cycle ride, games, bowling, a trip in the area, knitting, sharing round a cup of coffee. After dinner there was a time of worship and missionary presentations from Africa, Nepal, the North of France and among senior citizens with prayer for these subjects.

During our stay we visited the acropolis dedicated to US servicemen and Lake Madine. We went for walks in the magnificent Meuse countryside, and some visited Verdun.

Testimonies

Samuel, first time participant: I didn’t imagine it would be so dynamic with all these people older than I. The discussions we had and the messages we heard were super. I loved it. Thanks for everything!

Évelyne and Alain, enthusiasts: Every year we think it was the best 55 plus retreat, but this year we were particularly renewed and encouraged by a living hope in the midst of our family and health difficulties. We met some wonderful new people which enriched our walk with God. We are especially grateful to all the speakers during this week of blessing.

Thank you Lord for everything that happened in the life of everyone during this week. You enabled us to grow in the faith and in matters touching a life renewed by overflowing hope. Our thanks also to all who worked behind the scenes to make this a very special week.

Magali B.

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