On February 22-23, 2025, a journey of faith, healing, and renewal unfolded at Loyola Retreat House - Spirituality and Art Center in Angono, Rizal. A total of 88 scholars—45 high school and 43 college students—gathered for a weekend of silence, prayer, and deep reflection. With the theme "God’s Loving Presence in My Life and His Invitation to Love in Return," this retreat guided scholars in strengthening their faith and embracing God’s love in their personal journeys.
A Special Reunion Before the Retreat
Before the retreat began, scholars from Iloilo, Guimaras, Roxas, Cebu, Batangas, Bicol, Biliran, Lucena, Tarlac, Urdaneta, and more were given a rare opportunity to visit their incarcerated parents at New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City and the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong. For many, this was the first time in years that they could embrace and speak with their loved ones face-to-face. The emotional reunions were filled with tears, laughter, and heartfelt moments of love and forgiveness—a beautiful reminder that hope and connection transcend walls and distance.
A Journey of Faith and Healing
The retreat began with quiet reflection and personal prayer, helping scholars to reconnect with themselves and their faith. Through the session "Pagyakap at Pagtanggap sa Sarili" (Embracing and Accepting Oneself), they were encouraged to reflect on their self-worth and acknowledge God’s presence in their struggles and victories.
Guided by experienced facilitators—DJ Bustamante and Joy Asajar for high school scholars, and Mark Leosala for college scholars—the retreat provided scholars with meaningful sessions on faith, self-acceptance, and healing. Through moments of silent prayer, deep sharing, and personal encounters with God, they were reminded that they are never alone in their journey.
One of the most moving parts of the retreat was the session "Touching Christ’s Wounds: Embracing Our Wounds and the Wounds of Our Family." Scholars were invited to acknowledge their personal pain and find healing in God’s unwavering love. The retreat also provided sacramental encounters through confession, the Holy Eucharist, and a penitential service, allowing scholars to experience deep spiritual renewal.
Reflections from the Scholars
For many scholars, this retreat was more than just an event—it was a transformative experience.
Cherry, a Grade 7 scholar, shared:
“Mahalaga ako sa Diyos kahit sino ako. Mahal na mahal niya ako. Balang araw, mapapatawad ako ng Diyos, at pagbubutihin ko ang lahat para mapalapit sa Kanya.”
(PJPS always reminds me that I am important, no matter who I am. I know that one day, God will forgive me, and I’ll do my best to be the best version of myself.)
Princess, a Grade 10 scholar, reflected:
“Hindi lahat ay nabibigyan ng ganitong pagkakataon. Ang retreat ay isang learning experience na nagbigay sa akin ng kaalaman at bagong kaibigan.”
(This retreat is a blessing because not everyone gets the chance to experience this. It’s a learning experience that helps us grow as individuals through our past experiences—both good and bad.)
Reynalyn, a graduating college scholar, expressed:
“Retreat ang laging inaabangan ng scholars dahil ito ang pahinga mula sa acads at pagkakataong makapanilay. Sobrang appreciated ko ang mga taong nasa likod ng retreat na ito.”
(Retreats are what I always look forward to as a PJPS scholar. It’s my time to rest from academics, gain peace of mind, and reflect on my life. I am so grateful to the people who make this possible for us every year.)
Arianna, a first-year college scholar, added:
“Sa kumpisal, bago pa ako magsalita, umiiyak na ako. Dito ko nailabas lahat. Sa pagninilay, marami akong na-realize tungkol sa sarili at pamilya ko.”
(During confession, I was already crying even before I started speaking. It felt so liberating to let go of everything I had been holding inside. This retreat has truly opened my heart and mind.)
This retreat would not have been possible without the generosity and support of many individuals. Special thanks to our facilitators: DJ Bustamante, Joy Asajar, and Mark Leosala from the Formation Institute of the Christian Life Community in the Philippines and our PJPS volunteers. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to UBE EXPRESS for providing transportation for some of our scholars, parents, and guardians, as well as to our donors who sponsored flights for scholars from different provinces with the help of Ms. Mariel Tolentino.
Touched by this experience? Help us continue this mission. Support our program and sponsor a scholar today. 💙
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam!
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