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Retreats and Recollections

About Retreats and Recollections

Retreats and recollections are among the most tangible expressions of Ateneo de Davao University’s commitment to whole-person formation. Since 2012, the Ateneo de Davao University has organized a series of “Ignatian Conversations” as part of its integral formation program, and retreats and recollections for faculty, staff, and students are held year-round — a practice that has since expanded to include the College of Law.

To support this ministry, Ateneo de Davao University built the St. Ignatius Spirituality Center (SISC) on Samal Island in 2014, a dedicated space for prayer, reflection, and both silent and individually-guided retreats. The Ateneo de Davao University has also institutionalized the formation of retreat guides since 2017, ensuring a steady pipeline of trained facilitators for these programs.

Demand for these formative experiences has only grown. Ateneo de Davao University is now expanding its retreat facilities with a new center in Tibuloy, Toril, Davao City, which will include two dormitories, prayer and conference rooms, a chapel that can seat more than 50 people, and outdoor gazebos designed for group Ignatian conversations.

For students, retreats offer more than a break from academics — they are moments of genuine encounter with God. As one student put it, reflecting on the University Chapel and school retreats: sitting there after a long day feels like a pat on the back, and retreats provide a necessary breather where she gets to experience God and love God all over again.

Beyond in-person gatherings, Campus Ministry has also adapted to remote and hybrid formats, running virtual retreats and recollections to keep students connected to their faith journey regardless of circumstance — a reflection of how central these programs remain to student life at ADDU, no matter the setting.

Guidelines for Student Recollections and Retreats

Recollections and retreats are integral to the spiritual formation of students. These moments offer time for prayer, reflection, and a deeper awareness of God’s presence in one’s life.

Please observe the following guidelines:
1. Attendance in class recollections is required.
2. These are official university activities; all campus rules and policies apply.
3. Students must regularly check department and the Campus Ministry bulletin boards, online memos, and social media page for updates and schedules.
4. Attendance in a pre-recollection orientation is mandatory.
5. Each student must sign the official attendance sheet.
6. A Parent’s Consent Form must be duly completed and submitted.
7. Students who fail to register or submit the required consent will not be allowed to participate in the recollection or retreat.

Students attending recollections and retreats are required to comply with the prescribed dress code of the host venue. This policy applies especially to retreat and formation houses administered by other private institutions or religious congregations, whose regulations must be observed with utmost consideration. University scheduled recollections and retreats are considered as class hours.