MCYM Northeast Tristate Region Annual Lenten Retreat

HUNTINGTON, NY - On March 28th and 29th, the MCYM-Tristate (Malankara Catholic Youth Movement from the NY/NJ/CT) region held their annual Lenten retreat at the Seminary of the Immaculate Conception in Huntington, New York. The retreat was given by Rt. Rev. Msgr. James M. McDonald, a priest of the Diocese of Rockville Center and the pastor of St. Aidan Catholic Church in Williston Park. The Monsignor preached three talks: The Pearl of Great Price, The Mercy of God, and Vocations. He encouraged the youth to consider three Christ-centered questions rooted in Jesuit spirituality: What have I done for Jesus Christ? What am I doing for Jesus Christ? What will I do for Jesus Christ? Msgr. McDonald's talks were received with an overwhelmingly positive response and he made himself available for spiritual direction upon request between and after his talks. The youth participated in spiritual activities such as The Most Holy Q'urbono, Prayers of the Hours, Rosary, Confession, and Adoration. In addition, they shared in common meals, fellowship, and an intimate discussion and sharing session through the course of the retreat. Fr. Sunny Mathew, MCYM-NA Director, Rev. Fr. Sathyan Antony OIC, and Rev. Fr. Abraham Lukose made their prayers and presence felt by spending some time with the young adults during the retreat. Rev. Fr. Joe Fitzgerald helped during Adoration. Along with the priests mentioned above, Rt. Rev. Msgr. Peter Kochery, Vicar General, Very. Rev. Fr. Augustine Mangalath, Chancellor, and Rev. Fr. Jacob John sent their support and continued prayer for the success of the retreat and the spiritual renewal of our youth. Rev. Fr. Michael Edathil, MCYM-Tristate Youth Director, Bro. Jerry Mathew, and the entire Executive Board of the MCYM-Tristate region collaborated on the organization and realization of the retreat. By God's grace and the intercession of Mother Mary it was a grand success.