An Advent Retreat - VD Tagaytay

"I Make My Home in You" (cf Jn 1:14)
by: Mila Abigan, VD-Disciple

The Verbum Dei-Tagaytay Advent Retreat, held from November 30 to December 1, 2024, offered participants a profound spiritual experience centered around the theme "I Make My Home in You" (John 1:14). This two-day event brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds for a time of prayer, reflection, and community building.

The retreat commenced with an engaging icebreaker led by Sr. Connie, encouraging attendees to contemplate their personal journeys through four thought-provoking questions. This activity set the stage for deeper introspection and connection among participants.

The introductory talk explored the central theme of God's desire to dwell with His people, inviting participants to recognize His presence in their daily lives and deepen their relationship with Him during Advent and beyond. Bro. Ed's session, focusing on the Annunciation, guided attendees in encountering God through reflective prayer and Scripture study, fostering a sense of intimacy with the Divine.

Sis. Alice's talk, "I Make My Home in You," inspired participants to prepare their hearts as a dwelling place for God. Through Scripture-based reflections, quiet moments, and prayer walks, attendees deepened their connection with the Trinity. Sr. Rita's session explored the concept of eternal life as an invitation to deeper communion with God, while Sis. Cecile emphasized God's transformative mercy and His power to reshape and restore lives.

The retreat included a Penitential Rite, featuring an examination of conscience and individual confessions, offering participants the healing grace of forgiveness. A communal dinner brought the group together in joy, fostering unity and gratitude, and included a birthday celebration for Sis. Mila.

In the final session, Sr. Priscilla highlighted Christ's call to love one another, encouraging participants to embody God's love in their homes and communities. The retreat concluded with Sis. Mila leading a reflection on the Incarnation, urging attendees to embrace God's indwelling presence.

An Advent Tree activity allowed participants to symbolically surrender their struggles and attachments while offering virtues and values to Jesus. As the retreat came to a close, attendees left with renewed hope and a deeper understanding of the Incarnation's message: God's constant presence in their lives.
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One participant summed up the experience, saying, "This retreat reminded me that God doesn't just visit our lives—He desires to make His home in us". The Verbum Dei-Tagaytay Advent Retreat provided a transformative experience, leaving participants with a renewed sense of God's presence and love as they entered the Advent season.

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Edited by: VD-NATCOMM