CLM Chile: Three retreats to reaffirm the Sodalit identity and strengthen the community

The Christian Life Movement (CLM) in Chile held three retreats at the “Stella Maris” house, located in the Valparaíso region, in the months of April, May and August of this year. Under the direction of Fr. Carlos Zamalloa, these retreats were a valuable opportunity for members of the groups of Betania, Nazareth and the Brotherhood of Our Lady of Reconciliation.

This year, the central theme of the retreats was “Identity and Charisma”. Fr. Carlos stressed that these spiritual retreats “have been good moments of encounter with God, of fraternity and communion and of appreciating the gift that God has given us in Sodalit spirituality.”

Throughout their days, the participants had moments of prayer, group dialogues, celebration of the Eucharist and spaces of fraternity.

Experiences of faith and communion

Verónica Loyola, a member of Betania, expressed her gratitude for the experience she had: “We came to the retreat expecting to meet God, and as always, He surprised us. God calls us to be disciples and to bring His word to those who need it and to bear witness to what He has done in our lives.”

For his part, Mauricio Gutiérrez, from the Brotherhood, shared: “For me, the retreat was an enriching experience in every aspect. It united us as brothers in faith in Christ and Mary. It was a moment of reflection and connection with God, where we were able to disconnect from the daily routine and reconnect with our fears, desires, joys and dreams.”

“Thanks to one of the reflections and meditations we wrote a prayer for the Procession of the Virgin,” said Mauricio, adding that he is “eternally grateful.”

Soledad Astudillo, from the Nazaret group, also highlighted the positive impact of the retreat: “My experience was very nice, especially for the peace and tranquility I felt in my heart. I am grateful for the opportunity to share with the other members of Nazaret and to experience this retreat.”