Krzydlina Mała, Poland. The Claretian Missionaries of the Polska Province gathered at the Retreat House for their annual retreat and workshop in Krzydlina Mała, Poland. This event, which took place from the 15th to the 18th of April after the Easter celebrations, served as a spiritual and formal gathering for the Provincial Government, local superiors and all Claretians who were able to attend. Its aim is to deepen their educational activities and to reaffirm their commitment to their missionary work.

The gathering was attended by 35 participants, including members of Claretian communities in the Czech Republic, Belarus and Ukraine. Fr. Gonzalo Fernández, CMF, facilitated the workshop entitled ” Forming to Serve Better. The service of authority in changing times”. This workshop addressed critical themes such as the challenges of leadership today, Jesus and Mary as models of Christian leadership, and the Church’s guidance on the ministry of authority. It also explored topics such as discernment, leadership self-awareness, self-care and key leadership practices.

The workshop was designed to be highly engaging and interactive, with group activities and discussions to enhance the overall experience. The sessions were complemented by evening gatherings that fostered camaraderie among the participants.

Thanks to the efforts of the Cybermissionary, Fr Andrzej Kobylski, CMF, the event was also streamed online, enabling brothers from as far away as Belarus, Siberia and various parts of Poland to participate remotely.

A major highlight was the Eucharist on the second day, presided over by the Bishop, Jacek Kiciński, CMF. This service was part of the celebration of the 175th anniversary of the foundation of the Congregation and featured the venerated pilgrim image of the Foundation, which travels to Claretian communities and parishes throughout Poland.