Advent is a time of joyful waiting for Christmas. Joyful but not idle waiting. That is why Advent retreats are being preached in our Polish parishes to help us prepare spiritually for Christmas. As every year, they are preached by our missionaries from different parts of the world.

This year for western and central Canadian provinces advent retreat is preaching by Fr. Krzysztof Koślik OMI who has been ministering in Madagascar for 9 years. What are his impressions and experiences of our Polish parishes?

“This year I have the privilege of preaching Advent retreats and experiencing Christmas here in Canada - primarily in the west - Vancouver, Edmonton, Winnipeg and Thunder Bay. Climatically, it's a big challenge for me, as I left mid-summer behind when I left Madagascar in late November. On the day of departure it was about 35 degrees celcius.  I am very grateful to the Lord God and the Oblates of the Assumption Province for the opportunity to stay in Canada. For me, as a missionary, from the other side of the world, it is a very edifying experience of community. Everywhere I have stayed so far, I have been very well received. The hospitality of my fellow oblates and the faithful among whom they work makes me feel at home everywhere. I am very much taken by the openness and large attendance at the retreat teachings.”

We are grateful to Father Krzysztof for being with us and wish him countless God's graces upon his ministry and a warm jacket while he's with us.

(TJ/DJ)