The Basic Christian Community of Hawaii, a lay movement, invites its members and guests to its annual retreat at the Benedictine Monastery in Waialua, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 28.
This year’s theme is “Fully alive in the Spirit” — re-igniting love and passion for Christ, bringing energy, exuberance and confidence in standing firm in our Catholic faith, bringing that love and exuberance to all those around us.
Sacred Hearts Father William Petrie will be the keynote speaker. A priest for over 50 years, he worked with Mother Teresa of Calcutta for 25 years and served as pastor of St. Damien Parish on Molokai. He is currently at St. Patrick Monastery in Honolulu assisting with the Sacred Hearts congregational archives.
The day opens with Mass at 8:30 a.m. celebrated by Father Petrie and vicar general Msgr. Gary Secor. A continental breakfast and lunch will be served. Parking is at St. Michael Church, 67-390 Goodale Avenue, Waialua. Shuttle service is provided.
Msgr. Secor and Benedictine Sister Mary Jo McEnany are the organization’s spiritual guides and advisors.
The concept of BCC is not new. More than 2,000 years ago, the early church formed the first basic Christian communities — small groups of Christians who came together to study and know Jesus’ Word (the message) and to live more fully the life of a believer (the mission).
The Basic Christian Community of Hawaii started in 1985 with 12 dedicated Catholics. Since then, more than 1,000 people have participated in one of the retreats specifically designed for teens, young adults or adults. The three goals of the Basic Christian Community are:
To encounter the risen Lord, through praise, worship, reconciliation and the loving support of the community.
To invite all people, regardless of age, sex, color or religion to build up the body of Christ and grow in holiness.
To encourage people to be involved in the needs of their communities and parishes; religious education, administration, worship and outreach.
BCC stresses Jesus’ two laws of love: Love God with all your heart, mind and soul; and love your neighbor as yourself.
To attend, RSVP by Sept. 14 to Valerie Streff, valstref@gmail.com, or Gerald Streff, streff.gerald@gmail.com, 673-3074, 597-0413.
