Twenty-eight professed Sisters of the Incarnate Word (SVI) in the Catholic Diocese of Sunyani have begun their annual eight-day spiritual retreat at the Ark of the Covenant Novitiate, Mantukwa.
The retreat which is aimed at renewing the joy of Consecrated Life, commenced on the evening of August 1 2026 and it is being directed by Rev. Fr. Clement Amankwa, Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Sunyani.
Under the theme, “Renewing the Joy of Consecrated Life,” it will conclude on the morning of August 8, 2026.
Addressing the Sisters during the opening session, Fr. Amankwa underscored the importance of silence as an essential part of every retreat experience.
He explained that true maturity is reflected in knowing when to speak and when to remain silent, adding that silence creates the atmosphere for a deeper encounter with God.
He noted that while the modern world is filled with external distractions—particularly through social media—many people also struggle with internal voices such as regret, fear, anxiety, and unhealthy comparisons.
According to him, these distractions often prevent individuals from recognizing God’s voice, which speaks gently in moments of silence.
Fr. Amankwa encouraged the Sisters to put away their mobile phones throughout the retreat and devote themselves fully to prayer, reflection, and listening attentively to God.
He reminded them that retreat is an opportunity to rediscover their “first love” and deepen their personal relationship with Christ.
The retreat is expected to provide the Sisters with spiritual healing, reconciliation, and renewed strength for their mission. It is also intended to strengthen community life and inspire them to return to their apostolic work with greater joy, hope, and zeal.
As part of their daily reflection, the retreat director encouraged each Sister to prayerfully consider three questions:
- What is God asking me to do today?
- What is God asking me to change?
- What grace has God given me today?
Drawing inspiration from 1 Samuel 3:10—”Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening”—the Sisters enter this sacred period of silence with the hope that God will renew their joy, deepen their consecration, and strengthen them for the mission entrusted to them.
By Sr. Veronica Ferkaa, SVI
(Sister Communicator, CASCON-GH)
