The retreat was preached by Fr. Pascual Chávez Villanueva, who offered a rich and progressive itinerary of reflection, characterized by a broad ecclesial vision, deep Salesian insight, and a strong personal spiritual tone. His conferences unfolded around several interconnected themes: Rediscovering Ourselves, Listening to Our Times through Gospel Discernment, Reflecting on Pope Francis’ Encyclical Dilexit Nos, Facing the Challenges of Hope, Religious Life in the Light of the Word of God, and Future Paths for the Congregation.
Rediscovering Identity to Renew Mission
The opening reflection, centered on “rediscovering ourselves,” invited the members of the Council to return to the heart of their vocation and mission. It was not merely an individual spiritual exercise, but a shared journey aimed at renewing clarity, unity, and depth in their service to the Congregation.
This foundational theme naturally led to the call to read the present moment through Gospel discernment. Beyond sociological analysis or strategic planning, Fr. Chávez encouraged a contemplative reading of reality—one capable of recognizing the presence of God in the signs of the times and of allowing the Spirit to guide decisions and orientations.
Rooted in Love, Sustained by Hope
A significant moment of the retreat was the reflection on Dilexit Nos, which highlighted the centrality of Christ’s love as the source and foundation of all pastoral action and community life. From this perspective, consecrated life is renewed not by activism, but by returning to the experience of being loved by Christ and sent by Him.
From this foundation emerged the theme of hope—not as an abstract ideal, but as a demanding and concrete responsibility. Hope, Fr. Chávez stressed, calls for courage, fidelity, and the willingness to embrace present challenges with evangelical confidence.
The meditation on religious life in the light of the Word of God further deepened the spiritual horizon of the retreat. Listening to the Word was presented as the heart of consecrated life: the place where identity is continually purified, mission is illuminated, and fraternity is strengthened.
Memory and Prophecy for the Future
The concluding reflections turned toward the future paths of the Congregation. In his final synthesis, Fr. Chávez underlined that authentic consecrated life is always both memory and prophecy: firmly rooted in the tradition from which it springs and courageously open to the newness inspired by the Spirit.
He emphasized the need to draw constantly from the wellspring of Salesian identity in order to chart a clear and credible path forward. In this perspective, he highlighted the complementarity between the experience and wisdom of older confreres and the enthusiasm and creativity of younger ones—together constituting a vital resource for renewal and growth.
An Atmosphere of Fraternity and Contemplation
The setting of Nemi significantly contributed to the depth of the experience. Surrounded by natural beauty and sustained by a strong sense of fraternity, the councillors were able to live days marked by recollection, openness, and sincere dialogue.
The presence and accompaniment of the Rector Major and the Vicar strengthened communion within the Council, while moments of silence and personal prayer allowed each participant to interiorize the themes and to deepen the process of discernment.
This retreat became a privileged space where personal reflection and communal life were closely intertwined. The rhythm of listening, prayer, and sharing fostered a climate of trust and unity, supporting both individual and collective discernment.
As the General Council prepares to resume its session, this time of spiritual renewal stands as a moment of orientation and grace—helping to refine perspectives, deepen communion, and strengthen the commitment to guide the Congregation with clarity, fidelity, and hope.
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