The celebration began, as in previous years, with the splendour of the liturgy: voices raised in praise, echoing through the great Jesuit church. It was a fitting setting. Designed by the same architect as St Beuno’s itself, the Holy Name reminds us that this ministry of prayer, retreat and discernment is part of a much wider story, one rooted deeply in the life of the Church and the Ignatian tradition.
Yet at the heart of the day was something quieter and more personal: an invitation to listen again for the voice of God at work in our lives.
In his homily, Fr Tom McGuinness SJ reflected on the readings of the day, acknowledging that the world can often feel uncertain or even overwhelming. The Scriptures themselves speak honestly of struggle and conflict, yet reveal a God who remains present, shaping and guiding his people even in the most difficult times.
Turning to the Gospel, he drew attention to the simplicity and depth of Christ’s teaching: to treat others as we would wish to be treated, with generosity, truthfulness and understanding.
This call is lived not in abstract ideals but in everyday relationships and choices.
At the centre of Fr Tom’s reflection was the heart of St Beuno’s mission: helping people to listen more attentively to the voice of God within their lives through the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius.
He invited those present to consider a simple but profound Ignatian practice, the Examen. Beginning from the assurance that we are first welcomed by God, as a friend gazed upon with love, we are then invited to reflect:
This pattern of gratitude, honesty and hope offers a way of staying attentive to God’s presence in daily life.
After Mass, the gathering continued in a spirit of warmth and friendship. Many shared their memories of retreat at St Beuno’s, experiences of stillness, prayer and renewed purpose that continue to bear fruit long after returning home.
Those present were reminded that such encounters are made possible through the generosity of supporters. Donations and legacies ensure that the ministry of St Beuno’s remains open to all, including those who would otherwise not be able to afford to come on retreat.
The liturgy pointed to a deeper truth: that each of us is on a journey, called to follow Christ, often by the narrower, more demanding path that leads to life.
The enduring gift of St Beuno’s is to help people walk that path with greater awareness and trust: recognising God at work in all things, and responding with generosity, courage and hope.
To find out more about retreats and how to support this work, visit www.beunos.com.
