A deeply nourishing journey with Arete

By Bernadette Ho

It feels as though God came running for me in the form of the Arete course. The last eight months journeying with Arete has been deeply nourishing and life-giving for my spirit. Most profoundly, I have felt the Holy Spirit drawing me closer to the love of Christ Jesus during the intensive retreats which have been a combination of community and silent prayerful experiences. They have been powerful and intimate encounters of God’s love and presence and I have felt overwhelmed and enraptured by God’s allpervading love.

There have been precious moments noticing God’s movements and a deepening (and at times challenging) ongoing conversation as I discern God’s call and will for my life. To feel held and warmed by the truth that I am a beloved daughter of God, even in my weakness, has been the most incredible grace!

The formation aspect of the course has enlightened and expanded my mind and week by week my understanding of mission has grown. Gathering online for lectures, combined with the small-group monthly mentoring sessions have been a highlight and I find myself looking forward to learning with anticipation. The interactive course structure and delivery is encouraging and fits in well with my family situation.

It has been refreshing to combine the theological components of the course with the practical applications of ministry; to explore what it means to lead oneself and others. It is this practical, real-life dimension which truly distinguishes Arete from other programs. I have particularly enjoyed the varied content of the lectures, especially delving into the sociological underpinnings of the present Australian culture and context. It has been enlivening to understand the different dimensions and processes of evangelisation and the Holy Spirit’s role as the principal agent in the mission of the Church. I feel supported in sharing and learning alongside the 2021 Arete cohort, it has been a blessing to make new friends who are equally passionate, aligned and energised about parish renewal, the new evangelisation and sharing the Gospel message.

I am filled with joy and hope for this next stage of my journey and through the power of the Holy Spirit, offer myself more fully into God’s mission of bringing Christ’s love to the world. Arete has expanded, equipped, and empowered me to share God’s message of love and provided me with greater confidence to accompany and engage people wherever they are on their faith journey. In addition to sharpening my focus, it has intensified my passion and commitment for the renewal of the Church in Australia. I sense a flame has been ignited and a deeper desire for sharing the joy of the Lord with others has emerged.

Arete has propelled me into a new and exciting stage of adventure as I prepare to take up a new role as Pastoral Formation Officer with the Diocese of Parramatta. The Church needs vision carriers in every new generation, and I am grateful that Arete has helped me to affirm and listen more attentively, to attune my heart to the voice I hear calling me forth, to go and make disciples.

I recognise that we find ourselves in a crucial and pivotal moment in the Church’s mission and Arete has challenged me to respond wholeheartedly and generously for God’s people. I pray that the Holy Spirit can utilise my gifts creatively, that I may become a true missionary leader within my parish community. May the merciful love I have I received in Christ Jesus flow out from me to embrace others.

I am filled with joy and hope for this next stage of my journey and through the power of the Holy Spirit, offer myself more fully into God’s mission of bringing Christ’s love to the world.