California & Seattle, United States. In preparation for Lent, the Claretian Biblical Animation of the Province of the United States and Canada offered a series of in-person Lenten retreats in several Claretian communities under the theme “Jesus Offers a Kingdom of Forgiveness.” Fr. Henry Omonisaye, CMF, the Prefect General of Bible and Communication, accompanied the gatherings, highlighting the centrality of the Word of God in Claretian spirituality and encouraging participants to follow the example of the Virgin Mary, who “treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart” (Lk 2:19).
The retreat began February 6–8 in San Gabriel, California, with approximately 70 participants. The community welcomed the theme with openness and expressed a strong desire for continued biblical formation. Many rediscovered in the Gospels a source of healing for personal wounds. In response, a weekly space for biblical reflection will be established, coordinated by Deacon Guido Zamalloa in shared mission with a core leadership team.
From February 9–13, the retreat continued at the parish of San Antonio María Claret in Fresno, California. There, the biblical ministry—guided by Claretian lay leader Martha Rodríguez and the Claretian Biblical Animation group—has matured and begun to bear abundant fruit. Through careful preparation of prayers and ritual moments, participants entered deeply into the life–text–life hermeneutic, sharing personal experiences in a sacred and trusting environment.
The central theme focused on forgiving those who have caused harm as a path to freedom from resentment. Participants expressed the difficulty of forgiveness while seeking reconciliation and interior healing. Through reflection on Gospel passages—such as the Lord’s Prayer, love of enemies, the Risen Lord’s gift of forgiveness, the healing of the paralytic, and the encounter with the woman caught in adultery—the community contemplated the unconditional mercy of God revealed in Jesus Christ. Around 150 people participated in Fresno, many affirming that this Lent will be marked by what they experienced.
The final retreat was held February 16–20 at Whatcom Catholic, a newly founded community in the Archdiocese of Seattle. The Gospel of Matthew guided the reflections, emphasizing justice and the Father’s universal love. The retreat fostered unity among diverse parish groups and strengthened their missionary identity.
The Claretian Biblical Animation team expressed gratitude for the presence and encouragement of Fr. Henry Omonisaye, CMF, reaffirming that Sacred Scripture continues to inspire the building of the Kingdom of God in daily life.
Source: Villalobos Manuel CMF
