Embracing Detachment: Reflection on the second session of the Retreat – Day 1

By Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Delatado

Published on August 21, 2024

Being a priest is a calling that demands a deep detachment from worldly things. This detachment is not born from disdain for the material world, but from a profound desire to connect more intimately with the divine and serve others.

In my journey as a priest, I have come to appreciate the beauty of simplicity. There is a profound peace that comes from living a life detached from excess. I have learned to find joy in the small things: a shared meal with parishioners, a quiet moment of prayer, or the laughter at a community gathering. These moments remind me that true fulfillment comes not from what I own, but from the relationships I cultivate and the love I share.

Detachment has also opened my eyes to the suffering of others. When I rid myself of the need for material validation, I become more attuned to the struggles of those around me. I find myself drawn to the marginalized, the lonely, and the broken-hearted. My ministry is enriched by the stories of these individuals, and I feel a deeper sense of purpose in walking alongside them. From them, I discover that the richness of life is found in compassion, not in accumulation.

Ultimately, detachment from worldly things is about freedom. It frees me to love more deeply, to serve more fully, and to trust more completely in God’s plan. I have learned that when I let go of my attachments, I create space for grace to fill my life. I am reminded of the words of St. Francis: “It is in giving that we receive.” In giving up my attachments, I receive the richness of a life lived in faith.

It is always a process to embrace the beauty of detachment. Pray for me that I may aim to seek a life that values connection over possessions, service over status, and love over all.