Annual Retreat on Pastoral Zeal Held for Jamshedpur Priests

Puri, Jamshedpur, October 11, 2025: The annual clergy retreat of the Diocese of Jamshedpur became a profound moment of spiritual renewal and pastoral gratitude as priests gathered at the tranquil Ishopanti Ashram in Puri. Held in early October, the retreat offered the clergy a sacred pause from the busyness of ministry to rediscover prayer, fraternity, and pastoral purpose in the light of Christ’s Eucharistic love.

Centred on the theme “Pastoral Charity of a Diocesan Priest,” the retreat was preached by Fr. John Ponnore from the Archdiocese of Raipur, whose reflections guided participants to rekindle their identity as shepherds after the Heart of Christ. His talks invited the priests to deepen their interior life, embrace simplicity, and serve God’s people with renewed zeal and compassion.

In an age marked by digital distractions and constant noise, the retreat provided a rare opportunity for silence and reflection. Many described it as a “graced encounter with God’s stillness,” echoing the psalmist’s words, “Be still and know that I am God.” The quiet atmosphere of Ishopanti Ashram became a sanctuary where hearts could rest and minds could refocus on God’s presence.

Fr. Ponnore encouraged the priests to return to the core of their vocation — communion with Christ in prayer and service. Through guided meditations, Eucharistic adoration, and personal reflection, the retreatants found clarity and strength to continue their pastoral journey. “True pastoral charity,” Fr. Ponnore reminded them, “flows from a heart rooted in Christ. Only when we draw from His love can we radiate His light to others.”

Moments of rest and fraternity added depth to the retreat experience. Away from the routines of parish life, priests shared their experiences at table and in prayer, rediscovering the joy of brotherhood and mutual support. The time together strengthened bonds of friendship and reminded them that priesthood is never a solitary mission but a shared journey of faith.

Many participants spoke of an interior freedom gained by stepping away from daily pressures — a letting go of mental and digital clutter that restored peace of mind and heart. The focus shifted from busyness to presence, from activity to prayerful listening. As one priest reflected, “The retreat reminded us that ministry begins at the altar, not the office.”

The days of recollection also brought moments of healing and rest. The serene natural surroundings, coupled with prayer and confession, allowed participants to experience the gentle restoration promised in Christ’s words: “Come to me, all who labour and are burdened, and I will give you rest.”

By the conclusion, the retreat had become more than a time of reflection — it was a renewal of mission. The priests left Ishopanti Ashram strengthened in spirit, eager to return to their parishes as renewed shepherds committed to living and celebrating the Eucharist with greater reverence and love.

As they returned to their pastoral duties, many carried with them the conviction that spiritual renewal is not a one-time experience but a continual call to live from the Eucharistic Heart of Christ — to be, as Fr. Ponnore described, “priests who are broken and shared for others.”

The 2025 diocesan retreat thus stood as a testament to grace and fraternity — a moment of rekindled faith and gratitude that sent forth the priests of Jamshedpur as grateful shepherds renewed in the love of Christ.

By Fr. Valerian Lobo

Download Catholic Connect App for Daily News Updates: 

Android: Click here to download

iOS: Click here to download