by Nirmala Francis
RTPTCA organized an in-person Lenten retreat on March 15, 2025, at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Apex. The day began with the recitation of the Rosary, followed by retreat sessions, with the congregation divided into adult and children’s groups.
Rev. Fr. Loyola Amalraj, from the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, led the adult sessions in the church, while Rev. Fr. Lourduraj Alapaty, from the Diocese of Raleigh, led the children’s sessions in the church hall.
The retreat was a spiritually enriching experience, structured into three sessions—two in the morning and one after lunch. Lunch was arranged by RTPTCA, and confessions were available during this time, offering participants a quiet moment of reflection and grace.
After lunch, the Way of the Cross was enacted by our children, with heartfelt participation from the community. This powerful experience was followed by a time of solemn adoration. A tea break, kindly arranged by RTPTCA, provided an opportunity for fellowship and refreshment. The retreat concluded with the celebration of the Church’s evening vigil Mass, bringing the day to a prayerful and fulfilling close.
Fr. Amalraj, who holds a doctorate in counseling, offered deep insights into how prayer impacts the brain. He thoughtfully distinguished between merely saying a prayer and genuinely experiencing it. Drawing from scientific evidence, he explained how prayer positively influences the central nervous system, highlighting its powerful effects on emotional health, mental well-being, and spiritual growth. His guidance on connecting prayer, breathwork, and mental health included a soulful meditation with music and visualization—an experience many found both healing and inspiring.
A pivotal moment of the retreat occurred during adoration when Fr. Amalraj carried the Eucharist in a monstrance to the people kneeling in the pews. This deeply moving act brought Jesus—truly present in the Eucharist—into the midst of the community, leaving a lasting impression on many hearts. Throughout the retreat, Fr. Amalraj remained highly engaging and interactive, offering participants meaningful spiritual renewal during the Lenten season and a valuable opportunity to reconnect with God.
Meanwhile, Fr. Alapaty led the children’s retreat in a nurturing and safe environment, helping the young participants explore their relationship with God through prayer, worship, and reflection.
RTPTCA extends heartfelt gratitude to Fr. Amalraj and Fr. Alapaty for facilitating this transformative experience. We also thank everyone who contributed to and participated in making this retreat a meaningful and memorable day of grace.
A few reflections from Lenten retreat participants:
“The moment Father brought the Eucharist close to us during adoration, I felt like Jesus was right beside me. I’ve never experienced anything like it.”
“It wasn’t just learning about prayer—it was truly experiencing it. The meditation helped me feel God’s presence in such a personal way.”
“I liked the songs and prayers. They made me feel closer to Jesus.”
“This retreat reminded me how important it is to slow down and just be with God. I left feeling lighter, calmer, and spiritually refreshed.”
