By Herald Malaysia
PETALING JAYA – From Sep 13-15, the Church of St. Francis Xavier (SFX) welcomed youth from the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur for a three-day retreat titled Learning the Language of God.
Organised by the SFX Lifeline Young Adults Ministry and led by Fr Hung Pham SJ, an American Jesuit based in St Louis, USA, the retreat was crafted to help young participants understand themselves more deeply and strengthen their relationship with God through Ignatian spirituality.
The retreat commenced with the Walk of Faith, where participants, paired as guide and blindfolded, symbolised trust and surrender to God’s guidance. Fr Hung guided a reflection on how these roles mirror our faith journeys, fostering a sense of vulnerability and dependence on divine leadership. The day closed with Mass, offering a moment of unity and collective prayer.
Day two of the retreat explored deeper themes of spirituality. Fr Hung shared the Parable of the Sower, using props like a vase and rocks to represent personal burdens — such as fear, pain, and exhaustion — while encouraging participants to recognise moments of joy and triumph. The evening concluded with a healing Mass, where participants were anointed with holy oils, offering a time for spiritual renewal and reflection.
On the final day, Fr Hung celebrated evening Mass, delivering a homily on the question, “Who do you say I am?” — inviting participants to consider their personal relationship with Jesus. The retreat concluded with a reflection on the “Parable of the Reluctant Messiah”, challenging the youth to examine distractions and desires that may hinder spiritual growth. A Q&A session offered an open space for participants to seek guidance on faith and life matters.
Through prayer, engaging activities, and meaningful discussions, Learning the Language of God offered participants a profound and transformative spiritual experience of Ignatian Spirituality. – Herald Malaysia
