The second part of the annual retreat of The Lord’s Flock Catholic Charismatic Community was held for all the Members at the Heritage Center on January 21, 2024. The focus for 2024 was revealed by Elder-Founder, Vision-Holder, Sis. Techie (Soar) Rodriguez: to ignite the zeal and fervor for the Lord and for the works that He has for the Community.
The moderator, Aileen Francisco, kept the retreat running smoothly throughout the day. Praise and Worship was led by Tristan Doma and the Psalm Ministry.
Game Master, Jolo Baclig did an ice-breaker game “Pass the Message” which delighted all the participants. While it was fun, he wrapped up the game by reminding everyone that they need to focus all their senses on the Lord’s message which will be delivered by Sis Techie Rodriguez.
Bro.Froilan Hong (Co-Founder) explained the house rules to remind all the members to be in ‘retreat’ mode – focused on prayer and meditation, communicating with God through prayers and songs, and sensitive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Tatay Bobby Rodriguez (Elder-Founder) gave the welcome remarks. He cited Genesis 50:20 “… God meant it for the good of the greater survival of many…” to explain that while the pandemic was indeed harmful, there were many positive outcomes: people went back to God, families bonded while on lockdown at home, and the LF Community became a global family.
Subsequently, an audio visual presentation” was shown to share a summary of the International Retreat in Las Vegas last November 4-5, 2023, where the theme “Ignite24” was first revealed.
The highlight of the retreat was shared by Sis Techie “Soar” Rodriguez as she introduced “IGNITE2024” in her first teaching. The fire must keep burning in the altar and must not go out (John 1: 35-51). It only takes a spark to bringing others to Jesus.
Her second topic tackled “Overcoming Fear of Commitment.” Proclaiming the kingdom of God is important and cannot be delayed. Therefore, commitment is a priority and it requires a lot of discipline to follow the Lord.
The third and final teaching was on “A Church on Fire or a Dead Church?” There is a need to be vigilant because there is a loss of passion in many churches; in fact, many churches in Europe have been closing for lack of parishioners. Thus, evangelization efforts must be continuous and aggressive to bring people to Jesus.
The teachings were followed by group discussions for the participants to share insights about the topics.
As a fitting finale, Bro. Froi and the Execom honored the Elders with an “Expression of Admiration and Gratitude” for everything that they have accomplished in service to the Lord and the Community.
TO GOD BE THE GLORY!
Scribes Ministry
Written by: Virgie Chang
Photo Credits: Comms
