Benedict XVI goes on one-week Lenten retreat

Vatican City, Feb 22, 2010 / 13:55 pm

The second day of Lenten spiritual exercises took place in the "Redemptoris Mater" chapel on Monday.  In three meditations, Fr. Enrico dal Covolo plans to deliver meditations on the priestly vocation for the Holy Father and the accompanying members of the Roman Curia.

The week-long series of meditations given by Salesian Father Enrico dal Covolo began on Sunday evening with the celebration of Vespers and the introductory meditiation titled "Give me, oh Lord, a listening heart." The first reflection was followed by Adoration and Eucharistic Benediction.

On Monday morning, the Day of prayer for priestly vocations was marked by the celebration of Lauds and a meditation called, "Still on the method of our exercises: The 'lectio divina,' Listening to the Fathers of the Church." 

At 10:15 a.m., the celebration of the Third Hour was observed and a reflection on the biblical history of vocations was given by Fr. dal Covolo. 

On Monday afternoon, "First 'priestly biography' : Some Fathers, up to Saint Augustine" was the topic of meditation, which was followed by Vespers, Adoration and Eucharistic Benediction.

The exercises will continue along the same format and schedule every day this week until they conclude with Lauds and a final meditation on Saturday morning.

Today is also a holiday in the Vatican for the Chair of St. Peter, celebrating the papacy and St. Peter as the first bishop of Rome.