The Advent Retreat has been a regular calendar event of the Indian Orthodox Diaspora ever since its inception in 2005. The one-day annual conference coincides with the beginning of the Advent fast or the Yeldo Fast from December 1-25. The Retreat is designed to better prepare the faithful to live a life worthy to be a ‘God-bearer’. The study of Theotokos, the mother of God forms an important part of these retreats.
Lately, resource persons from sister churches have led these Retreats bringing a new perspective to every Christmas celebration, to speak to the delegates on the occasions to give them a fresh perception of Advent, Christmas and a New Year ahead. There have been priests and lay leaders from social and community work sectors who have addressed the attendees in the retreat. The participants have often given feedback of the retreat which has given them a new understanding of celebration and preparation to welcome Jesus Christ in our lives.
