Waiting in Joyful Hope

Waiting in Joyful hope

We invite you to a restful and rejuvenating three-day retreat designed to help you slow down and deepen your connection to the Advent season. Embrace the Sacred in the hustle of the city, immersing yourself in the “ordinary” yet profound aspects of Melbourne’s life. Mary MacKillop, a daughter of Melbourne, lived, worked, and prayed here. Come walk in her footsteps.

This retreat offers a rich experience of prayer, reflection, and creative engagement that will help you discover the spiritual gifts of Advent.  Sr Rita Malavisi will companion you with guided prayer, sacred music, poetry and more. Give yourself the gift of spiritual renewal this Advent.

Each day offers time for personal reflection, prayer, and creative engagement with Advent themes. More detailed scheduling will be shared upon registration.

Don’t miss this opportunity to step back from the busy world and embrace the sacred season of Advent.
Limited spaces available.

Date: Monday 9th December to Wednesday 11th December 2024 |  Click here to book 

Time: Start Monday 9th December at 7.00pm finishing on Wednesday 11th December at 12pm

Location: Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre, 362 Albert St, East Melbourne 3002

Cost:     $480 including accommodation and catering.

Or $400 for day retreatants including catering.

(Cancellations made within 14 days of the event are non-refundable.)

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; on those who live in a land of deep shadow a light has shone

Isaiah 9:1

 

Who is it for?

This retreat is open to anyone seeking spiritual reflection. Whether you’re a teacher, a parishioner, or someone simply looking to slow down and deepen your understanding of Advent, this retreat is for you.

Ideal for:

  • Teachers and educators
  • Parishioners or community members
  • Anyone seeking to slow down and reflect on the meaning of Advent

What You Will Gain:

Participants will discover the spiritual gifts of the Advent season through a variety of contemplative practices, including:

  • Prayer: Guided sessions and personal prayer time
  • Poetry: Exploring the beauty and depth of Advent through verse
  • Song: Reflecting through sacred music
  • Art: Engaging with visual reflections that deepen your spiritual journey

Additional offerings include:

  • Optional Spiritual Direction: Limited one-on-one sessions for personalised guidance.
  • Guided Presentations: A short guided presentation to begin each day in prayer, followed by extended time for individual prayer and reflection.
  • Evening Reflection & Faith Sharing: An opportunity to gather in community, share insights, and reflect on the day’s experiences.

Retreat Schedule

  • Day 1: More info to come
  • Day 2: More info to come
  • Day 3: More info to come

Note: Specific details and timing may vary.


Meet Your Retreat Leader: Rita Malavisi

Rita has been a Sister of St. Joseph for over thirty years, bringing a wealth of experience in both education and spiritual direction. She has worked as a primary school teacher in both city and country schools, and now involved in adult faith formation at the Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre in Melbourne.

Rita is a trained Spiritual Director and serves as the current National Chair of the Confereence of Spiritual Direction Australia. Her deep love for scripture, prayer, and reflective practice will guide you through a transformative retreat experience.

 

 


Registration Details 

  • Dates: 7pm Monday 9 December 2024 till 12pm Wednesday 11 December 2024
  • Location: Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre 362 Albert St, East Melbourne VIC 3002
  • Cost: $480 with Accomodation or $400 without Accomodation.
  • Limited Spots Available (Limited spaces for both live in and daily retreatants)

 


Additional Information

  • What to Bring: A journal, comfortable clothing