Benevolence awaits you here at Jesus Christ Retreat House. This place is more than just a building. It is a sanctuary, a space for prayer and reflection. Its story is intertwined with faith, renewal, and the enduring legacy of Ignatian Spirituality.
Let’s delve into the history of this sacred place. Back on July 19, 1964, His Eminence Rufino J. Cardinal Santos inaugurated Loyola Retreat House. He blessed this haven atop Nieves Hills. The vistas included Laguna de Bay. Architect Felipe M. Mendoza designed the building complex. It occupied 7.0 hectares of land. Don Mariano J. Santos and heirs donated this land.
Built during the Second Vatican Council, Loyola Retreat House became a center for spiritual formation. The Jesuits of the Philippine Province managed it. Ateneo de Manila students and other religious groups benefited. Professionals also came here for renewal.
After 1986, the Philippine Jesuits partnered with other religious institutes. The Hijas de Jesus served from 1986 to 2006. The Marian Missionaries of the Holy Cross then took over from 2007 to 2022. On August 15, 2022, Loyola Retreat House began renovations. This followed successful renovations in Baguio and Cebu. Fr. Jose V.C. Quilongquilong, S.J. and Fr. René B. Javellana, S.J. supervised these projects.
October 23, 2023 marked a significant day. His Excellency Most Rev. Ruperto C. Santos rededicated and blessed LRH-SACA. Very Rev. Primitivo E. Viray, Jr., S. J. assisted him. Many collaborators participated. Jesuits, benefactors, staff, and local authorities were present.
The LH FOUNDATION and the LIU FAMILY funded the renovations. They honored the Founder, DAME NORMA H. LIU. Other generous benefactors also contributed. They improved facilities and renovated other parts of the property through the Philippine Jesuit Aid Association, Inc.
After the COVID-19 Pandemic, Jesus Christ Retreat House aims to provide a conducive space for prayer. It seeks to offer an experience of God’s benevolence through Ignatian Spirituality and its Arts Program. The retreat house offers a variety of retreats such as Day of Recollections, Weekend Retreats and Ignatian Retreats.
The Jesus Christ Retreat House stands as a testament to faith and community. It’s a place where one can connect with the divine. It is also a sanctuary for personal growth and spiritual enrichment. It is a place to experience God’s eternal benevolence and beauty.