CENTRAL PHILIPPINE UNIVERSITY

Autonomous Status granted by CHED – Sept. 16, 2024 – Sept. 15, 2027
ISO 9001:2015 Cert No.: CIP/5365/18/06/1061 – July 12, 2022 – July 8, 2025

Retreat, Review, Reset: CPU College of Theology strengthens faith and commitment

by | Feb 14, 2025 | Centralian Link

By Mikee Natinga Norico


A memorable moment captured as College of Theology students and faculty pose for a group photo with Rev. Dr. Bernabe C. Pagara, Dean of the College of Theology, during the second-semester retreat at Gaja Agri Farm.

On February 7-8, 2025, the College of Theology at Central Philippine University (CPU) successfully held its second-semester retreat at Gaja Agri Farm, Bita-og Gaja, New Lucena, Iloilo. With the theme “Retreat, Review, Reset,” the event provided students and faculty an opportunity to pause, reflect, and renew their commitment to their ministerial calling.

Attended by all College of Theology students—from first year to fourth year—as well as Master of Divinity students and faculty members, the retreat aimed to foster spiritual growth and self-examination. The “Retreat” phase encouraged participants to step away from their daily routines for prayer and meditation, deepening their understanding of their ministry calling. The “Review” phase allowed attendees to assess their commitment in relation to their current behaviors and spiritual journey.

During the event, Master of Divinity students shared meditations, offering insights that inspired and challenged their fellow students. Additionally, Rev. Dr. Bernabe C. Pagara, Dean of the College of Theology, presented the list of Dean’s Listers, recognizing outstanding academic achievements. He also provided updates on the ongoing ATESEA Accreditation and led a discussion on the vision and mission of CPU’s College of Theology. This session emphasized the importance of internalizing these principles while reviewing curriculum developments from the old to the new framework.

The final phase, “Reset,” was a call to reorganize, correct past mistakes, and refine both personal and ministerial aspects. This served as an opportunity for students and faculty to renew their commitment to a life of service, ensuring that their testimony aligns with their calling. By God’s grace, the retreat encouraged participants to move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and dedication to ministry.