IMSA Annual Retreat 2026

“Pauline Prayers: A Journey Towards Wholeness and Holiness” was the theme of the Institute of Our Lady of Annunciation (IMSA) Annual Retreat held at the San Damiano Spirituality Center from January 31 to February 7, 2026. This much-anticipated gathering brought together Institute members from across the Philippines and abroad, including Malaysia and Macau, as an integral moment in their ongoing spiritual journey. This year’s retreat was attended by 44 IMSA members and three members of the Institute of St. Gabriel the Archangel (ISGA), aggregated to the Society of St Paul.

Opening and Apostolic Sharing

The retreat opened with a warm welcome and reports from the Area Coordinators of the eight subgroups: North America, Malaysia, Macau, Panay Islands and Mindanao, Cebu-Bohol, Samar-Leyte, Bicol, and Metro Manila. The Provincial Coordinator likewise presented an update on the state of the Institute and recent activities, particularly those undertaken in collaboration with the wider Pauline Family.

On the following day, members participated in apostolic sharing within small groups, reflecting on their experiences and ministries over the past year. In the afternoon, the group visited the Orlina Museum, home to the glass sculptures of National Artist Ramon Orlina. The visit proved to be a heartwarming encounter with beauty and creativity, showcasing a remarkable legacy of artistry within one family.

On the third day, Fr. Ramil Tapang, SSP, delivered a liturgical talk entitled “When Love Becomes Liturgy,” encouraging the members to deepen their commitment to full, conscious, and active participation in liturgical celebrations.

The Retreat Proper

From the fourth to the sixth day, the community entered into the retreat proper. Fr. Khris Emmanuel Llacer, SSP, led a series of meditations on Pauline prayers, tracing their origins and development. These reflections helped members appreciate more deeply the richness of these prayers and the profound spirituality of Primo Maestro. Each conference was followed by ample time for personal prayer and reflection.

The retreat culminated with the Sacrament of Confession, administered by Fr. Llacer, Fr. Leopoldo Botavara III, SSP, and Fr. Micha Miguel Competente, SSP.

On the afternoon of the sixth day, members once again gathered in small groups to share their prayer experiences. This was followed by preparations for the First Profession, Perpetual Profession, and Silver Jubilee celebrations. The preparations were led by Fr. Ramil Tapang, SSP, the newly appointed Provincial Delegate of the Institute, with Fr. Ronel Soriano, SSP, serving as pianist and choir director.

February 6, the seventh day of the retreat, marked its most awaited highlights: the First Profession of Maribel Valiente (Davao); the Perpetual Profession of Durah Marcus (Malaysia); and the Silver Jubilee celebrations of Ester Bagac (Antique), Adelaida Martinez (Atimonan, Quezon), and Margarita Mercado (Bicol Region).

The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by the Provincial Superior, Fr. Mario Sobrejuanite, SSP, with Fr. Ramil Tapang, SSP, serving as Master of Ceremonies and several SSP priests concelebrating. Members of the Pauline Family, including the Pastorelle Sisters, were present, together with family members and friends of the professed.

The day concluded with a joyful Social Night filled with laughter and fellowship. Guest priests Fr. Edgar Pasaporte, SSP, and Fr. Ramon John Manalo, SSP—long-time missionaries in Macau—added to the warmth of the evening. The retreat formally ended with a Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Fr. Pasaporte, followed by Eucharistic Adoration, offering the community a final moment of thanksgiving to