Tranquility at Gethsemane Iloilo
Those who have read the Bible, especially the Book of
Matthew, the Book of Mark and the Book of John, are probably familiar about
Gethsemane Garden.
It’s a secluded garden where Jesus and his disciples
often went to. It was also there when Jesus prayed with anguish the night before
he was captured and crucified.
Located at the foot of Mount Olives in Jerusalem, this
place continues to be a favorite haven for praying and meditation by Christian
pilgrims.
But you need not go to Jerusalem to find Gethsemane.
You can find solace and tranquility in a place called
Gethsemane Retreat right here in Iloilo.
Located at Brgy. Napnud, Leganes town, it is a getaway
that is perfect for prayer, worship and for meaningful gatherings.
To go there, take a tricycle bound for Brgy. Napnud at
the Leganes Market. The transportation fare is 10 pesos per person.
You will pass by a highway and will turn right to a rough
road prior to reaching the gates of the retreat house. Outside is a brick fence
with a sign Gethsemane Retreat.
Upon entering, you will see a long pathway enclosed by a
canopy of trees. At the right side is the function room, dormitory and
receiving hall while farther at the left is a cottage. All are surrounded by
landscaped gardens filled with plants, flowers and trees.
It is owned by Carmela Jamora, a devout Catholic and
supporter of the Opus Dei, the personal prelature of the Roman Catholic Church.
A teacher of Catechism, she brought her students there. Then
one day, an Opus Dei priest suggested, “Why not turn it into a retreat house?”
And she did.
Since then, the place has been a favorite retreat house
of Opus Dei members, Westbridge School for Boys and people from different
faiths.
It can accommodate 20 persons at one time in its 16-bed
dormitory and four single rooms for a retreat. They have four comfort rooms and
shower rooms.
It has a chapel and a function room called Hall of Mary that
can accommodate 150 persons.
The buildings are typical of a convent.
Everybody is welcome for a day trip, overnight stay or longer
retreat.
Once in a while, you need to take a break to give your
body and spirit the needed rest. Once your body and mind are rejuvenated,
you’ll be happier, lighter and more focused when you’re back to your routine.
Gethsemane Retreat can be reached through phone number 329.13.53.
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By Marie Katherine Villalon. Photos by Glen Jumayao