Chicago: The annual Lenten retreat held in connection with the Great Lent at St. Mary’s Knanaya Catholic Church, Morton Grove, concluded in a prayerful and spiritually uplifting atmosphere. The four-day retreat was led by Fr. Mathew Ashariparambil, Forane Vicar of Taliparamba Forane in the Archdiocese of Thalassery, who is also a noted preacher and lyricist.

The retreat began on Thursday, March 12, with the celebration of Holy Mass and concluded on Sunday, March 15, with Eucharistic Adoration. Along with Fr. Mathew Ashariparambil, the parish vicar Fr. Siju Mudakkodil and assistant vicar Fr. Aneesh Maveliputhenpurayil led the various services during the retreat. Hundreds of faithful participated in the services each day.

In addition, a special retreat for Sunday School children was organized on Saturday and Sunday under the leadership of the Anointing Fire Ministry.

At the conclusion of the retreat, Roy Chelamala expressed gratitude on behalf of the parish community to Fr. Mathew Ashariparambil, the priests, sisters, trustees, choir members, altar servers, and all volunteers who contributed to the success of the retreat.

The retreat arrangements were coordinated by Sr. Shalom, Sr. Silverious, Sr. Jessina, and Sr. Anita. Trustees Xavier Nadupparambil, Joby Polackal, Majo Kunnassery, and Felix Palakan; accountant James Mannakulam; secretary Sunny Meledam; Sunday School principal Saji Poothrikkayil; assistant DRE Manish Kaimoolayil; Sunday School teachers, prayer group members, and many volunteers also played key roles in organizing the retreat.