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Tasmanian Anglican

November 2002

 

 

 

 


The tranquil setting near Maryknoll at Blackmans Bay

 

Never ask a King for small gift

by Barbara Bowes

 

 

'Never ask a King for small gifts' or 'offer prayers of politeness', advised the Rev'd Roger Sharr from Morpeth College, the conductor of the Annual Diocesan Women's Retreat.

The opening address to the 20 'retreatants' set the scene at Maryknoll Retreat Centre, Blackmans Bay during the last weekend in September.

Through a series of addresses Roger led us through the Jacob saga in the Old Testament. Jacob as traitor - stealing Esau's birthright; Jacob's dream - a conversion experience; wrestling with God - facing the shadows in life; the Blessing from God - Jacob renamed Israel; reunion with Esau - the return of the Prodigal Son.

Relief and respite

Retreatants were invited to look at the patterns in their own lives, that matched Jacob's life - to remember that the Jacob similarities are there, the shadows need to be confronted and brought to the Light. New life is waiting after the struggles.

Maryknoll with its acres of garden, tranquil accommodation and the nearby Blackmans Bay beach offered relief and respite for those who took time out ot be with God.

'Retreats call spiritual desires and actions together, to recognise a thirsting for God. Do we reflect often enough, communicate regularly with the Lover who says 'I burn for you. Spend time with me.'?' asked Roger Sharr at the retreat conclusion.