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Parents Reatreat

My warmest greetings to you all.

My name is Tony McBride, and I have the privilege of serving as the Director of Christian Formation here at St Aloysius' College. Whether you have been part of the Aloysian Community for many years or have recently joined us, I am truly grateful for the opportunity to work with your young people, supporting their spiritual wellbeing through a variety of opportunities to encounter God.

As we journey together, I am delighted to invite you to a special Parents Retreat at the Ignatian Spirituality Centre on Scott Street, on Saturday, 21st September, from 10 am to 4pm. Our theme for the day will be "Rummaging Through the Day with God."

This retreat is first and foremost an opportunity for you as parents to take a moment for quiet reflection amidst the busyness of life. It is a chance to engage with spiritual practices rooted in our Jesuit tradition, offering insight into what your children experience here at the College. In particular, we will focus on a cornerstone of Ignatian Spirituality—the Examen—a time of prayerful reflection where they consider the events of each day and recognise God's presence in their lives. The retreat will be especially relevant to new parents, offering you the opportunity to meet others and build new connections in a relaxed setting. 

Pope Francis reminds us, “The family is the first school of human values, where we learn to walk by faith” (Evangelii Gaudium). At St Aloysius’, we realise the important role you play as the primary educators of your children, especially in matters of faith and values. This retreat is a way for us to support you in that role, offering space to relax, to pray, and to connect with other parents in a welcoming and supportive environment.

No prior knowledge of faith or spirituality is required for participation—everyone is welcome, especially those who are new to a faith school or a specifically Jesuit education. Our day will be about coming together, sharing experiences, and leaving refreshed and spiritually uplifted.

Whether you are looking for a moment of peace, a chance to deepen your own spiritual journey, or simply an opportunity to meet and connect with other parents, I hope you will join us for this special day. It promises to be a wonderful time of reflection, community, and spiritual enrichment.

The cost of the retreat is £20 per person, which will cover both the venue hire and lunch. To reserve your place, please contact our Chaplaincy Coordinator, Mrs Julie McWilliams ejmcwilliams@staloysius.org at the earliest convenience and before Monday 16th September, as places are limited. Or, simply click on the following link to register your interest: https://forms.office.com/e/gJs7SSek1u

Thank you for all your support, and I look forward to spending this meaningful day with you.

- Mr. Tony McBride, Director of Christian Formation