The Diocese
Posted: 01/25/2016
The Retreat Committee of Western Diocese is planning yet another exciting spiritual retreat for the year 2016 on the hilltop of Serra Retreat Center, overlooking the ocean, where one can indulge in spiritual meditation and study in a tranquil atmosphere (3401 Serra Road, Malibu, CA 90265). The annual spiritual retreat is scheduled to take place on Monday, March 14 at 10:00 a.m. and will continue through Tuesday, March 15, 12 noon. The theme of the retreat is the Parables from the New Testament; “An earthly story with a heavenly meaning.” Are you a person with a genuine hunger for God who understands the underlying spiritual truth or are you a person with hardness of heart who only hears a story without understanding its true meaning? A parable compels listeners to discover truth while at the same time concealing the truth from those too stubborn or too lazy to see it. To those who are honestly searching, the truth becomes clear. We will discuss some of the parables, their societal implications, as well as explore how they can be applied in daily life. Rev. Fr. Serovbe Alanjian will be heading the retreat along with Archpriest Fr. Vartan Kasparian, Archpriest Fr. Kevork Arakelian, Archpriest Fr. Sarkis Petoyan, Fr. Haroutioun Tachejian, Fr. Avedis Abovian, Fr. Nerses Hayrapetyan, Fr. Krikor Zakaryan, Hayk Madoyan and Mashdots Jobanian. The lectures will be both in English and in Armenian but as separate groups. Moreover, the participants will follow in the footsteps of our Lord as they walk in a devotional procession through the Stations of the Cross with candles, hymns and prayers (Khatchi Tapor). After a lengthy day of lectures, meditation and prayer, there is no better finale than to have a movie night, followed by discussion as well as singing and fellowship. The participants will also be granted the opportunity to have personal time in the monastic solitude of Serra Retreat. The priests will make themselves available for those who need counseling, confession or tete-a-tete discussion. We look forward to seeing you at the retreat.
