The serene retreat venue became a sacred space of silence, prayer, and renewal as the personnel of Pilar College gathered for their three-day retreat last May 18–20, 2026. Guided by the meaningful theme, “My Garden and My Gardener,” the retreat offered the participants a grace-filled opportunity to pause from their daily responsibilities and reconnect deeply with God, themselves, and one another.
The retreat was prayerfully facilitated by Fr. Joel Liwanag,SJ, who gently guided the retreatants through the step-by-step process of making a fruitful and successful retreat. During the opening session, Fr. Joel Liwanag,SJ emphasized the importance of both inner and outer silence — a sacred silence necessary to truly hear God’s message and experience His loving presence.
Throughout the three days, the retreatants immersed themselves in prayer, begging for graces, Lectio Divina, individual reflections, colloquy, and journaling. Through these spiritual exercises, participants were led to revisit the history of their life journey and reflect on how the Divine Gardener lovingly nurtured them through the different stages of their lives.
Using the beautiful imagery of the garden, Fr. Joel Liwanag,SJ explained how the Gardener’s plan is often hindered by common “garden pests” such as pride, greed, lust, sloth, anger, hatred, and envy — distractions and weaknesses that prevent spiritual growth and fullness of life. Yet amidst human frailty, the retreat reminded everyone of God’s endless patience, mercy, and constant invitation to return to Him.
The retreat became a deeply relaxing and transformative experience for all. In the silence and stillness, each participant realized and fully appreciated the countless blessings that God has generously bestowed upon them.
The three-day spiritual journey concluded with the celebration of the Holy Mass, where gratitude was offered for everyone’s cooperation in preserving the sacred atmosphere of silence throughout the retreat. In the final message, each retreatant was challenged to continue cultivating their personal garden, guarding it against harmful pests, and striving to bear a bountiful harvest that is pleasing to the Gardener.
Heartfelt gratitude to Fr. Joel Liwanag, SJ and to the RVM Sisters for making this meaningful and grace-filled retreat possible.
