FFRGOC Annual Lenten Retreat — Saturday, March 28, 2026
Saturday, March 28, 2026 — La Purisima Catholic Church News Brief By: Fely G. Claudio, FFRGOC Director of Public Relations
The Image of Blessed Mother Statue adorned with flowers and candles was prominently displayed.
Blessed Mother Statue adorned with flowers and the 2026 Annual Lenten Retreat program
Pictured is Emma Ronquillo, FFRGOC Director of Religious Enrichment who served as overall coordinator of the retreat. She was assisted by the entire FFRGOC Board, Officers and dedicated Northeast Chapter volunteers.
Emma Ronquillo, FFRGOC Director of Religious Enrichment, standing beside the Blessed Mother Statue
FFRGOC Newly appointed Greeters/Guest Relations Ladies from North East Chapter: Emma Alferos, Marinette Jacob, Belen Lumibao and Lani Beardsley, Rose McNabb, Elvie Hawk, Marilou Yanson, and Tito Salanga.
FFRGOC Greeters and Guest Relations Ladies from the Northeast Chapter welcoming retreat attendees
Registration & Welcome
The Registration Table was staffed by volunteers: Poy Licuanan, Cecelia Fernandez along with FFRGOC Board members Evelyn Ruiz, Nenita Miyata, MaryAnn Puzon, Boots Mercado and Sol Sollorano, who warmly welcomed attendees.
FFRGOC Board members and volunteers at the Registration Table welcoming retreat participants
Registration volunteers greeting and checking in retreat attendees
Registration volunteers posing together outside the retreat venue
Retreat participants received Breakfast brown bags upon arrival and bottled water. Zeny Sy, our current FFRGOC Asst. Treasurer, is shown picking up her breakfast brown bag.
Retreat participants receiving breakfast brown bags and bottled water at the hospitality table
Hospitality & Fundraising Table
At the Hospitality Table, retreat participants had the opportunity to place their petitions inside the Prayer Intentions Box. Thanks to FFRGOC VP Marlon Agbayani, who made the box available at the retreat. During the mass Fr. Juan prayed over the intentions and asked the congregation to pause and to silently join him in praying for the intentions.
At the same corner, Chat and Sean Agbayani greeted the attendees with information about the upcoming Fundraising Dinner Dance on August 15, 2026. They successfully sold $292.00 worth of raffle tickets for the event — excellent work!
The Prayer Intentions Box and the Fundraising Dinner Dance raffle ticket table
Event Program
Lorraine Betts, FFRGOC Secretary, was the Event's MC who guided us through the retreat program. In a touching moment of unity, she led everyone in singing "Amazing Grace," filling the room with prayerful harmony! 😊
FFRGOC members enjoying fellowship and conversation during the retreat program
Retreat Theme: "Mary, Gate of Heaven"
Retreat Master, Mr. John Thompson
- First Session – He presented his personal story and witness of conversion from being a Baptist Senior Pastor to being an actively practicing Catholic.
- Second Session – He presented how Mother Mary acts as a gate, not focusing attention to her but pointing everyone to Jesus. Mary is our role model to follow Jesus.
Rev. Fr. Juan Caboboy, FFRGOC dedicated Spiritual Director, also emphasized the importance of Mary's role quoting in Latin "Ad Jesum per Mariam" — meaning: To Jesus through Mary.
Our FFRGOC community and friends gathered at the Hall during the presentation.
FFRGOC community and friends gathered at the Hall during the retreat presentation
Station of the Cross & Holy Mass
The Station of the Cross was followed by the Celebration of Holy Mass inside the Church.
Reflection
Once a year, the annual Lenten Retreat offers a wonderful opportunity for the FFRGOC Faith Community and friends to come together. As an organization devoted to the mission of promoting our Blessed Mother's significant role in our Faith growth and journey, this day of prayer, reflection and celebration of the Holy Eucharist is truly enriching.
The highlight of the retreat was the inspiring presentation "Mary, gate of heaven," given by Mr. John Thompson. This year marked a special milestone as it was the first time a Lay person instead of a priest served as Retreat Master. Due to a Diocesan parishes' Retreat being held the same day at Christ Cathedral, where all priests and staff are required to attend, the Board prayerfully chose to proceed and trusted in God's divine providence. That trust was rewarded with a truly spirit-filled day and an attendance of 203 participants!
The retreat also provided a special opportunity to reconnect and spend some time with fellow FFRGOC members from different areas. The smiles, hugs and friendly conversations shared throughout the day are memories that will remain in our hearts.
Despite a few schedule delays due to some unforeseen circumstances, overall the event was a great success. The teamwork, dedication and commitment to service and discipleship were clearly evident. The Choir's music and songs beautifully elevated the solemnity of the Eucharistic celebration.
Thank you everyone for your hard work and dedication!
Your Feedback is Welcome
As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, we kindly ask you to reflect on two questions:
- What personal blessing or take away did you receive from the retreat?
- What challenge did you experience during the retreat that could be improved in future retreats?