MEANING OF RETREAT

There are three primary meaning of Retreat

• The act of withdrawing or going backward.
• A place of privacy; a place affording peace and quiet.
• (For military) a signal to begin a withdrawal from a dangerous position.

The second meaning is more apt one to designate the spiritual retreat. In today’s world many people live in despair, tensed and full of stress, and sometimes, take the radical step of committing suicide. They consider their life as meaningless and moved according to the demands of their flesh. They think of their life as burdensome. In this critical situation, retreat helps the people to renew their life and find happiness in given situation and in God. The retreat is a privileged time for experiencing God. It is a special opportunity to renew one’s life and re-orientate oneself. These orientations are towards God, humanity and creation so that one may follow them with renewed vigor. The retreants may evaluate and change orientations and set new goals. Spiritual retreats will provide an insight, orientation and a definite life to reach the goal, deep experience of and union with God.