On Pentecost Monday and Tuesday, June 9 and 10, 2025, members, co-workers, and companions of the Redemptorists of the Province of St. Clemens gathered for days of recollection at the moated castle of Rindern near Kleve. The gathering began with a heartfelt reunion: over coffee and cake, old acquaintances greeted one another, new faces joined the conversations, there was laughter, questions, and translations. German, Dutch, English, and Indonesian echoed through the room – a visibly international community that clearly felt at home in its diversity.
Around 3 p.m., the first spiritual impulse was given by Father Prof. Dr. Josef Römelt C.Ss.R., who introduced the participants to the theme of the retreat: Redemptio as Resonance. This was followed by silent times for personal reflection, sharing in plenary, common evening prayer, dinner, and another deepening impulse later in the evening. Afterwards, those who wished could engage in informal conversations or retreat into quiet time before the day concluded with recreation.
Tuesday began early with breakfast, followed by morning prayer and another input from Father Römelt. Once again, the morning focused on personal retreat and contemplation, before the group came together again over coffee and conversation.
The spiritual conclusion was a festive Mass held in the church of the moated castle. After lunch, the days of recollection ended around 2 p.m. – leaving behind quiet impressions, new insights, and a deep sense of lived community.
“For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.” (Matthew 18:20)
