Lakbay Arriba Experience

At first, I would always wonder what a retreat was. I only watch them on movies and it was somehow a dream to experience it because I heard good things about the experience. And so, when I found out the schedule of our retreat, I was very much excited.

I really didn’t know what to expect. All I know is that I’ll be away for three days, hoping to somehow change me. And hoping to learn more and realize more of life, and be closer to God.

This was my very first and last retreat ever and I am so happy that I have gained a lot from it. And I must say, it changed me in a big way and I am thankful for it. This is what happened:

First Day (Jan 17 ‘11):Orientation

PM Snacks (Buko Tart and orange juice)

Fixed bed and things

Evening session (Burdens and things we pray most about)

1. Discussed what a retreat is
2. Formed into groups of 7
3. Shared own experiences
4. Heard unexpected trials that friends are going through
5. Cried
6. Cried
7. Cried
8. Evening Prayer

• Bonding
• Wrote retreat letters
• 11PM - Lights off
• 12MN - Slept

Second Day (Jan 18 ‘11):

• Woke up 5:30AM
• Took a very very very cold bath
• Wrote retreat letters
• Breakfast (Egg, hotdog and rice - EKH)
• Went to check out the Hanging Bridge
• Morning session (Reconciliation)

1. Discussed Sacrament of Penance & Reconciliation

• Lunch
• Siesta Time

1. Went to check out the Tent Chapel
2. Took lots of pictures
3. Played games like little kids

• Afternoon Session - Confession
• Reflection/Pasyal
• Dinner
• Evening session - Thanksgiving

1. A yarn of thread to give to the person you want to give thanks to and/or want to get to know more
2. Cried, cried, and cried
3. Is now peace with the person I was in conflict with before

• Gave out retreat letters to the boys
• Bonded
• Finished retreat letters for the girls
• Slept 1AM
  
  
  
  

Third Day (Jan 19 ‘11):

• Woke up 5:45AM
• Took a very very very cold bath
• Breakfast (Omelette and Spam with Rice)
• Packed things and fixed beds
• Morning session - Camiguin, Babuyan Islands
• AM Snacks

1. Received a retreat note from Elcid :”>
2. He’s one guy I got annoyed to before

• Mass

1. Gave hugs as sign of peace :”>
2. Hugged boys, girls, and baklas! LOL.
3. Prayed real hard that I cried my heart out
4. Feels really good after the mass

• Took lots of pictures outside the chapel
• Lunch
• Roamed around Caleruega
• Took videos thanking Caleruega
• Went back to Manila :(

UBE - The best people you'll ever meet.