Good Shepherd Retreat Center Begins Ministry in Belize
The newly opened Good Shepherd Retreat Center in San Antonio Village is already serving the people of the Toledo District in meaningful ways.
The center, which opened Jan. 17, is run by Sister Higinia Bol and ministers through St. Peter Claver Parish. Located in southern Belize, it was created to support formation and renewal for catechists and village church leaders across the region.
Just days after opening, Sister Higinia led the first program at the center, a Cursillo, a three-day, lay-led movement designed to train Christian leaders and renew their faith. A small group of men and women from several villages gathered to reflect on their call to serve as catechists. Participants expressed gratitude for the new facility, which allowed them to stay together overnight rather than travel back and forth each day. They also shared meals prepared on site, strengthening their sense of community.
Immediately following the Cursillo, 25 newly commissioned catechists arrived for a three-day retreat. The focus was on reflecting on their early experiences in ministry. While the schedule included communal prayer, the emphasis was on personal prayer, meditation, and silence. Participants also met individually with Sister Higinia for guidance and consultation. Many described the retreat as a welcome pause from the demands of daily life in their home villages.
The center also welcomed a special guest. The Father General of the Society of Jesus, based in Rome, visited along with several Jesuit Provincials from different regions. They met with Sister Higinia for an extended conversation about the purpose and future of the retreat center. Members of the San Antonio Village Committee also offered a presentation on the history of the committee, its accomplishments, current challenges, and hopes for the future.
Though still in its early stages, the Good Shepherd Retreat Center is already meeting a clear need. Its presence is strengthening the formation and spiritual life of leaders serving the 32 village churches across the Toledo District.
Sister Higinia says, “The opening of the Good Shepherd Retreat Center is a blessing for our villages. For the first time, our catechists can step away from their daily responsibilities, stay together in one place, and truly reflect on their call. This center gives them space for prayer, silence, and community. We are already seeing how much it is needed.”
I am looking at the Good Shepherd Retreat Center again and wondering. Where is Sister Rekha in the picture? Is she the photographer? My understanding is that she returned to Toledo at the end of December. I remember well how much Sister Ann Moyalan contributed to the Toledo ministry many years ago, and I’m sure Rekha is doing the same.
Good news for all who can now participate closer to home
So much prayer, dreaming, and hard work to birth the Good Shepherd Retreat Center. Congratulations and abundant blessings upon you, the village committee, and all who come!
Many blessings to you , Higinia, and the dear people of Toledo whom the retreat center will be serving.
I am so thrilled that you have a retreat center for your retreatants .
How gratifying knowing that you began this ministry for those in the Toledo district of Belize.
Congratulations on all of your work with various villages and parishes. The Retreat Center is a real gift to Toledo District and southern Belize. Blessings on all you so.
Barbara Joseph
Beautiful ministry Higinia! You are a Pioneer Woman following in the steps of Catherine Spalding! Blessings on you and all the retreatants who gather!
Anne Marie and Ann
Finally Higinia, a dream come true for your ministry in the Toledo district! Such a history of that sacred place on the hill.
Congratulations and continued prayers.