By: Jo-ana Minese D. Dulfo (GS Faculty)
The Grade School Faculty and Staff participated in Sacred Heart School – Ateneo de Cebu’s annual three-day retreat from October 23 to 25, 2025, held at the Cebu Center for Ignatian Spirituality Jesuit Retreat House – Vista de Loyola. This spiritual event was centered on the theme, “In the Heart of Jesus, we are rooted in Hope, transformed in Love, and sent to Serve.” Fr. Martin Licup, SJ, former principal of Ateneo de Naga, led the retreat, guiding the teachers and staff through reflections using the Bible story of the Road to Emmaus to help them process their recent experiences, especially those related to the earthquake.
On Day 1, Fr. Martin invited the retreat participants to pair up and share their stories, including their hopes for the retreat. He then narrated the Emmaus Journey, encouraging everyone to reflect on the journey of the Ateneo de Cebu community and its enduring legacy of hope. As the participants embraced the retreat’s spirit, they revisited their own Emmaus stories—their paths as Ignatian educators—by identifying core memories with the school, listening to moments of stillness, and embracing gratitude.
On Day 2, he asked the participants to reflect on the state of their hearts and then shared three powerful stories: the healing of the blind man, illustrating Christ’s healing power; the bleeding woman, showing how faith can bring healing; and the prodigal son, a story of forgiveness. These stories reminded the participants that God’s heart is always open and forgiving. He emphasized that God’s love is limitless, but only if we are fully aware of it and avoid spiritual blindness, which separates us from God. This reflection on faith prepared the participants for the afternoon confession. After dinner, they gathered again for a contemplative Taizé chant prayer.
On Day 3, Fr. Martin sent the retreat participants off with a meaningful pabaon centered on the acronym H.O.P.E., inspired by the Emmaus story. He reminded them that they are the light of the world and that Christ lives within each of them. In a world often marked by anxiety and division, the Ignatian formators—the retreat participants —are called to be that very hope.
H stands for Heart—the Ignatian pedagogue’s disposition of openness and love toward students. Fr. Matin emphasized that an Ignatian educator shapes not only the mind but also the heart, nurturing individuals who are conscientious, competent, and compassionate. The Sacred Heart serves as the wellspring of this mission, where teaching becomes a true ministry.
O stands for On the Way. An Ignatian pedagogue walks alongside students, not ahead of them, just as Jesus did with his disciples on the road to Emmaus. He or she listens deeply, asks thoughtful questions, and helps students discover meaning. Formation is described as a shared journey, where teachers and students are fellow pilgrims, growing and learning together in faith.
P stands for Presence. The Ignatian pedagogue helps others recognize God in all things—in lessons, laughter, and even challenges. Teaching becomes sacred ground, and every learning moment is an opportunity to encounter grace. Fr. Martin encouraged the participants to cultivate this habit of pausing through the daily examen.
E stands for Engagement. An Ignatian educator is called to form, serve, and inspire—just like the Emmaus disciples, who were transformed by their encounter with Christ and went forth to proclaim His message. The participants were encouraged to teach with purpose and hope, remaining fully engaged and expressing their love through action.
As Sacred Heart School – Ateneo de Cebu marks its 70th anniversary and looks to the future, the participants were invited to reflect on their role in advancing the school’s mission of hope. Fr. Martin challenged them with the question, “Where is God sending you now?”—sparking deep reflection and group sharing throughout the three-day retreat. The meaningful experience culminated in a Eucharistic celebration, presided over by Fr. Martin, SJ, bringing the retreat to a grace-filled close.
Indeed, what a wonderful and meaningful way to begin the semestral break, with the GS community’s heart firmly rooted in hope, love, and service.
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam!
