Spaces of Freedom

Time of creation of outlines:

Spring 2010

Place of first retreats:

Babice, Gliwice diocese

Place of creation of outlines:

Gliwice diocese

Target group:

Open retreats for people aged 13 to 23

Retreat description:

The retreat theme was chosen as a response to feedback received after the previous trip. Lenten retreats aimed at deepening the understanding of freedom (freedom is not license). We based them strongly in the context of Holy Week - what kind of freedom does Christ want to offer you? Do you want such freedom? The inspiration was a text by Fr. J. Tischner: “There is no freedom among stones, waters, rains and hailstorms, earthquakes and winds. There is no freedom in the beautiful world of butterflies and in the dangerous nests of snakes. And in man? Is it not a paradox that man is visited by the idea of freedom? Where does it come from? Some fight for freedom, others flee from freedom, but freedom is still a problem. Can freedom in this world be of this world? It is against nature. However, if God is internally free, then everything changes. Created in the image and likeness of God, man must carry within himself this wind that blows within the Holy Trinity”

Table of contents of group meeting outlines

• Meeting 1. - On the Essence of Freedom
  • Goal
  • Prayer
  • Introduction
  • What is freedom for me personally?
  • How does the Church understand freedom?
  • Freedom and Self-Will
  • Participants’ Summary
  • Questions (without answers?)
  • Prayer
• Meeting 2. - Thy Will Be Done
  • Goal
  • Prayer
  • Introduction - Our Father
  • Introduction - Thy Will Be Done
  • Summary
• Meeting 3. - Why the Words “Thy Will Be Done” Are Important for My Life
  • Goal
  • Prayer
  • Introduction
  • Where in My Life Is There Room for God’s Will?
  • Is This Necessary for Me?
  • For Younger Groups (and not only) - Addition
  • Application
• Meeting 4. - Freedom and Responsibility
  • Goal
  • Prayer
  • Introduction
  • Do I Want to Be Free?
  • Freedom and Happiness…?
  • Summary