The retreat began with a spiritual reflection inspired by the Prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi, followed by reflections led by the facilitator, inviting participants to deepen their understanding of the relationship between following Jesus, Christian spirituality, and commitment to creation. Throughout the retreat, there were also moments of communal prayer, including Vespers for Saint Clare, with a reflection on the fragility of human life and the hope of renewal in God.
The retreat was also marked by a direct encounter with nature. At one point, participants took part in a walk and prayer for water, stopping at five stations and concluding the experience by planting a manacá tree on the convent grounds. The activity offered a moment of contemplation and renewed the call to care for the gifts of creation.
Another special moment was a hands-on workshop on beekeeping, led by Francisco Moreno. Before the practical activity, participants learned about the biology of bees and other important aspects of their lives, and then learned how to prepare bait to attract bee colonies, bringing together knowledge, care for biodiversity, and practical experience.
During free periods, participants were also invited to express, through drawings, what the retreat meant to them. The activity offered a space for creativity and personal reflection, which was later shared with the group.
The program also included participation in Mass with the local community, as well as moments of fellowship, dinner, and a cultural gathering, strengthening fraternity and the sharing of experiences among participants.
At the end of the retreat, the group reflected collectively on the experience through a symbolic evaluation, creating a tree made of words expressing the fruits and learnings of the retreat. The gathering concluded with closing words from the facilitator and a moment of fellowship.
As a final gesture of care, each participant received a small flower pot to look after and a jar of European honey bee honey, offered by Francisco Moreno. They returned home not only with a memory of the retreat, but also with a concrete invitation to continue nurturing life and caring for our Common Home.
The second retreat of Laudato Si’ Chapter São Paulo was, therefore, an opportunity to deepen faith, strengthen community bonds, and renew the commitment to creation, recognizing that following Jesus also means caring for our Common Home.