By HONEY REYES

In mid-September, 26 strangers and I, all in various stages of emotional crisis, spent two nights and two days on this bushy and gorgeous retreat location at the Our Lady of Peace Abbey (Benedictine Nuns Retreat House), National Highway, Digos City, Davao del Sur. Outside our bedroom in this tranquil and secure environment flourished a forest of plants, ranging from shrubs to trees.

The Holy Missionaries of the Holy Spirit Intergenerational Psycho-Spiritual Healing Retreat proves faith’s ability to develop emotional and spiritual recovery. This Catholic community has created a one-of-a-kind sanctuary where people of all faiths can find consolation, inner peace, and personal development.

The concept that emotional and spiritual wellbeing are intimately linked is central to our retreat.

The community’s holistic approach blends psychological and spiritual practices, drawing on Catholic tradition and beliefs. Participants go on a transforming journey through prayer, meditation, contemplation, and guidance from trained and skilled facilitators (and experts).

One of this community’s distinguishing characteristics is its openness and inclusivity. While anchored in Catholicism, they embrace people of all religious traditions and sects. The emphasis is on community spiritual growth and healing rather than conversion. This ecumenical approach promotes unity, respect, and sharing of human experiences.

The Holy Missionaries of the Holy Spirit Intergenerational Psycho-Spiritual Healing Retreat has various advantages. Participants frequently express increased self-awareness, emotional healing, and a stronger connection to their faith or spirituality. This retreat offers a haven for people from all walks of life to find common ground and support in their quest for wholeness.

This Catholic community’s commitment to openness and healing in an increasingly fractured world reminds us of the universality of the human spirit’s yearning for peace and spiritual nourishment. It illustrates faith’s ability to unite people, transcend religious boundaries, and inspire healing and self-discovery.

I was surprised to have people from different faiths with me in this Catholic retreat. We had a Muslim, Iglesia ni Cristo, and other religous dominations' members in our group. And even from the first night, I felt the inner peace of the people organizing our retreat. They all had a different glow in them. I secretly wished I had that glow.

I arrived at the retreat carrying the burden of life’s challenges, doubts, and fears. Nonetheless, I found solace within the tranquil walls of this sanctuary. The scent of roses, the soft glow of candles, and the hushed tones of other seekers all murmured comfort.

I discarded layers of doubt and dread as I immersed myself in contemplative practices. The days passed, exposing profound moments of self-discovery, gentle mentoring, and shared vulnerability. I felt a stronger sense of purpose and let go of obligations that no longer served me.

I accepted healing and renewal in this beautiful cocoon. The retreat experience was a breakpoint moment in my path. My heart found calm in this oasis, and my soul realized its steadfastness.

The retreat experience has been nothing short of transformative—a profound voyage into the depths of one’s own being, a healing sanctuary, and a sacred meeting with the divine. I discovered the power of inner calm, spiritual refreshment, and the courage to conquer life by embracing isolation and introspection.

As I left the retreat house, my heart was overflowing with gratitude for the stillness that rekindled my spirit, for the friendships made with other seekers, and for the wisdom taught by guides and mentors. The retreat has taught me that healing is a path in which self-discovery and self-compassion are vital companions.

How can I continue my healing? I plan to take the retreat experience beyond those sacred lands. I resolve to accept times of stillness, seek opportunities for introspection, and nourish my spirit regularly, as well as share with others the love, peace, and wisdom I’ve received. In this doing, I contribute to a world in desperate need of healing and hope.

To my fellow Intergeners, may we take the retreats of tranquility in our hearts as we reenter the hectic tapestry of life, gathering strength from the moments of grace we have encountered. Let us be a light in the darkness, offering compassion to ourselves and everyone around us. 

The retreat experience was a beginning, not an end. What I experienced there was only an invitation to live each day with purpose, meaning, and love.