As you begin your retreat, pause for a few moments and grow still inside. Focus on your breathing, and let go of any distracting thoughts. Let your mind become present to God. Take three slow, deep breaths. Feel God's loving gaze upon you.

Andrew, Simon Peter’s younger brother, was a fisherman who lived in Galilee during the time of Jesus. Both brothers gave up their work as fishermen to become apostles of Jesus. Andrew not only followed Jesus himself, he seemed to take delight in bringing others to Jesus. He was the one who told Jesus about the little boy who had the loaves of bread and the fish, the beginning of a meal that fed more than five thousand people.

Imagine two men fishing in a small boat. Their hands are rough from grasping and throwing heavy fishing nets. Their faces are burned and cracked from the sun. A man calls out to them—he seems to know who they were—brothers Simon and Andrew. “Come follow me,” he says. “I will make you fishers of men.” They both leave their nets behind and become disciples of Jesus. That day, their entire lives change forever.

How can I share my faith with others at home and at school?

In what ways has following Jesus changed my life?

St. Andrew, help me to be a faithful follower of Jesus.