Finding God in the Deep Waters: The Annual Retreat of the 1st Batch of Faculty and Staff

Last June 8–9, 2026, the first batch of teachers and staff participated in a retreat at St. Scholastica’s Center of Spirituality in Tagaytay City. The retreat was facilitated by Rev. Fr. Sigmund “Munching” De Guzman, SJ, a Filipino Jesuit priest known for his pastoral ministry and his creative integration of faith and the arts.

This year’s retreat carried the theme, “Sent Again: Finding God in the Classroom, Office, and Everyday Mission.” It invited participants to deepen their relationship with God and rediscover the meaning of their vocation as educators and school personnel.

During the morning session of the first day, the opening conference centered on the question, “Why am I still here?” It challenged retreatants to pause and reflect on the deeper meaning of life beyond routines, achievements, and struggles. Drawing from the Gospel of Luke (5:1–11), Fr. Munching reminded everyone that God calls us into deeper waters. The deep waters are places where our trust is tested, but they are also where God's power is most clearly revealed. Following the session, retreatants were given time to roam the grounds, embrace silence, and contemplate the graces they had received.

In the afternoon, the second conference focused on the people God has entrusted to our care. Fr. Munching emphasized the importance of seeing others through the eyes of Christ, recognizing that every student, parent, and colleague carries a unique story. Just as God looks beyond our wounds and imperfections to see a beloved child, we are called to view others with compassion and understanding. He reminded the retreatants that many conflicts arise when we react to behavior without understanding the story behind it.

The day concluded with the celebration of the Holy Mass and the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. As the retreatants ended the day in prayer, they carried with them Christ’s invitation: “Do not be afraid. Go deeper.” They were encouraged to embrace opportunities with courage and discernment, trusting God in every step of their journey.

The following morning began with a reflection on the importance of silence. Fr. Munching reminded everyone that silence is where we begin to hear what truly matters. It is in moments of stillness that we discover our deepest hopes, fears, and dreams—and where God often speaks most clearly.

The third conference focused on the theme of freedom in service. The grace sought during this session was freedom from whatever prevents us from serving God generously. To explain this, Fr. Munching used the analogy of riding a bicycle: “You do not move forward by leaning too far to one side. You move by finding balance, keeping your eyes fixed on where you are called to go.” He also reminded retreatants that while we all have rights, true freedom requires sensitivity and respect for the rights of others. Furthermore, he shared insights on wise decision-making, emphasizing that discernment involves choosing between good options and seeking the path that leads us closer to God’s will.

The final conference centered on the theme “Sent Again.” Fr. Munching left the retreatants with a question for reflection: “Where is Christ sending me to make a difference in the lives of those I serve?” He reminded everyone that dreams become richer and more meaningful when they are inspired not only by personal desires but also by the lives, sacrifices, and hopes of others who challenge us to become better versions of ourselves.

This conference served as an eye-opener for many. Fr. Munching emphasized that before we can bring healing to others, we must first allow healing within ourselves. We cannot offer what we refuse to cultivate in our own hearts. By embracing God's healing grace, we become better instruments of His love and compassion.

The retreat concluded with the Holy Mass and a final challenge: What happens after the retreat? Will the retreatants return unchanged, or will they return awakened and transformed?

Fr. Munching reminded everyone that they are called to be the salt and the light of the world. As salt, they are called to add flavor, goodness, and hope to the lives of others. As light, they are called to shine brightly and reflect God's presence wherever they are sent. Through this retreat, they were encouraged to go deeper, trust more fully, and embrace the mission entrusted to them.

Indeed, the retreatants returned home with hearts renewed and minds enriched with wisdom. The experience provided an opportunity to reflect on their calling as children of God entrusted with the care and formation of His children. It served as a powerful reminder that in everything we do, Jesus walks with us.

Article by: Ms. Larrene Joy Bilangel | Photos by: Ms. CJ Sapao