As part of their spiritual formation in preparation for their graduation next year, the Grade 12 students of Good Shepherd Cathedral School held their annual spiritual retreat on October 26 to 28, 2023, at the MaPSA Holistic Development Center at Silang, Cavite.
The three-day-long activity was spearheaded by the Catholic Christian Formation (CCF), headed by Mr. Jestoni S. Monreal, our CCF Coordinator, and Mr. Anthony Rapisura, our Assistant Principal for Integral Formation. Students were also accompanied by their respective class advisers. Rev. Jaffarson Jeffrey Opaon, also known as Rev. Jaff, a deacon from Piarist Fathers, served as retreat facilitator.
On the first day, Rev. Jaff emphasized the importance of ‘silence’, both as a word and as an acronym, which stands for serenity, integrity, love, encounter, nothingness, and compassion, leaving the letter E for the students to think of a corresponding word for it.
The following day, the students focused on examining their conscience, partaking in the sacrament of reconciliation, practicing the Taizé prayer, and sharing thoughts within their respective sections. Rev. Jaff also mentioned Pope Francis’ Encyclical Letter for the Youth, “Christus Vivit”, which translates to “Christ is alive”, likewise Saint Thomas’ “God is first.” These were the ideas constantly brought up throughout all sessions. He also left a quote to motivate the students— “Whenever you start something, it is [the] good and right time for you.” On the last day, Rev. Jaff presented a synthesis recalling the discussions during the sessions, held during the first two days.
To close the event, a holy mass was presided by our School Principal, Rev. Fr. Noel V. Elorde, Ph.D. The mass also served as a celebration of the Feast of St. Jude Thaddeus and St. Simon, where Fr. Noel advised the students to view their martyrdom as an inspiration and a consolation. During the mass, he mentioned that retreats allow the students to reflect on their closeness and faith in God and reminded students of the importance of developing a habit of praying even outside the retreat house. He also reminded students to think about ways they can share their mercy and love with their peers, and how they can use their blessings to share it with other people and fulfill their purpose.
The retreat served as a way for the Grade 12 learners to rest, reflect, and reorganize their thoughts with their enlightened hearts and improved spiritual well-being.
Article by Hannah Sulean dela Cruz (The Flock)