The Society of the Infant Jesus (SIJ) Novitiate in Cape Coast came alive with prayer, reflection, and fellowship from August 6 to 10, 2026, as young girls gathered for the annual SIJ Aspirants’ Retreat.
Held under the theme “A Clay in the Potter’s Hand: A Journey of Vocation and Discernment,” the five-day retreat offered a sacred space for young girls considering Religious Life to deepen their relationship with God and to learn more about the life, charism, and mission of the Society of the Infant Jesus.
The retreat began on Thursday evening with the arrival of participants. The programme opened with the rosary and vespers, followed by supper, introductions, and a welcome address. Rev. Fr. Enoch Asmah, the Retreat Director, set the spiritual tone for the days ahead, which was closed with Benediction.
Friday centred on the retreat theme. After Morning Prayer, Mass, and breakfast, the aspirants reflected on “A Clay in the Potter’s Hand” from Jeremiah 1:6. The session invited them to surrender to God’s formative work in their lives. The day continued with Midday Prayer, the Divine Mercy Devotion, small group sharing, Adoration, and Night Prayer moments that encouraged both personal reflection and communal prayer.
On Saturday, attention turned to the identity of the Society. The aspirants received a presentation on the history, spirituality, and mission of the Society of the Infant Jesus. This was followed by an interactive session where they asked questions about religious life. Sr. Millicent Fredua Agyemang, SIJ, the Vocation Directress, accompanied the aspirants closely, offering guidance and support as they navigated their discernment journey. The day also included a Rosary Walk, Vespers, and Adoration.
Sunday was marked by gratitude and community. The aspirants participated in a thanksgiving Mass and spent the afternoon in fellowship, sharing meals and conversation in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.
The retreat was concluded on Monday morning with Mass and morning prayers. After breakfast, the aspirants departed, carrying with them the fruits of five days of prayer, learning, and discernment.
For the Society of the Infant Jesus, the retreat remains an important moment of encounter, a time to walk with young girls as they listen for God’s voice and consider how He is shaping them, like clay in the Potter’s Hand, for service and mission.
By: Sr. Mercy Baidoo, SIJ (Catholic Sister Communicators Network, Ghana -CASCON-GH)
