Amidst the relentless noise of daily life, there arises a deep need to pause and reset. From 4th to 6th July 2025, a three-day silent Ignatian retreat led by Jesuit priest Fr. Jeevan Mendonca SJ offered just that—a much-needed shift from constant motion and worry to being fully present in the moment. Nestled in the heart of Mumbai, Vinayalaya Retreat House welcomed us into nature’s quiet embrace. Its serene surroundings invited not only physical rest but also deep spiritual renewal—a quiet, introspective journey grounded in stillness and faith.

Under Fr. Jeevan’s gentle and wise guidance, the retreat was not centered on active learning or group discussions, but on a personal encounter with God. Each day unfolded in sacred silence, interspersed with reflective scripture readings and brief yet profound talks. These moments invited us to contemplate God’s unconditional love, His gentle call, and His healing forgiveness—to desire a new heart and a renewed spirit.

Rooted in the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius, the retreat offered rich spiritual nourishment through guided meditations and insights that encouraged deep personal discernment. Time was set aside for personal prayer, reflection on scripture, journaling, and peaceful walks through the tranquil grounds. In the silence, we were invited to simply be in the presence of God, allowing the Holy Spirit to speak gently to our hearts. Freed from external distractions, we grew in awareness. Questions surfaced—some welcome, others unsettling—but all became invitations to an honest dialogue with God. At the heart of each day was the celebration of the Eucharist—the source and summit of our faith. In the stillness, the presence of God became tangible, offering strength, consolation, and unity.

The silence was not empty. It became a vessel filled with meaning, emotion, and direction. The absence of noise made space for a unique interior journey, leading to peace, clarity, and a deeper connection with the Spirit dwelling within. The retreat reminded us that true rest is not found in inactivity, but in surrendering to the gentle embrace of God. By the end of the three days, we emerged changed—renewed in clarity, softened in heart, and more attuned to God’s quiet workings in our lives. The silence had spoken, and in it, we had heard His voice.

- Ms Wynne Almeida

From the 10th to the 12th of May, the Logos Weekend Retreat, led by Fr. Gerard Rodricks SJ, welcomed 26 participants. This retreat focused on living a meaningful life through various enlightening sessions. Key themes included seeking forgiveness, discerning God's will, and, most importantly, discovering one's purpose and meaning in life. These sessions offered participants a profound opportunity to reflect on their spiritual journeys and find clarity and direction.

From March 28th to 30th, an Ignatian Silent Lenten Retreat for the laity was held at Vinayalaya, with 22 participants immersing themselves in prayer and reflection. A highlight of the retreat was the Way of the Cross at the Reconciliation Park, offering a deeply moving experience. Talks, guided prayers, and the Eucharist, led by Frs. Gerard Rodricks SJ, Vincent Saldanha SJ, Sean Cardozo SJ, and Wesley D’Costa SJ, were well received by the retreatants.

Christmas is a time of external festivity, but it also calls for deep internal preparation. To help participants ready their hearts for the coming of our Lord, an Ignatian Advent Retreat titled Come, Lord Jesus was held at Vinayalaya Retreat House from December 20th to 22nd. The retreat welcomed 28 participants who engaged in Ignatian practices such as the Examen, contemplation, spiritual conversation, spiritual direction, Eucharist, and adoration. Valuable inputs were shared by Jesuits and Mr. Maxim D’Cruz, enriching the participants' experience and reflection. As the retreat concluded, participants departed with hearts filled with joy, gratitude, and a renewed spirit, embracing the Advent call to prepare inwardly for Christmas. This Ignatian experience served as a profound journey of hope and spiritual renewal in the light of Christ’s coming.

From October 25th to 27th, twelve participants joined a weekend retreat led by Fr. Gerard Rodrigues, SJ. The retreat featured inspiring talks, spiritual conversations, Eucharistic adoration, and an introduction to Ignatian prayer methods, including the Examen. Fr. Gerard's guidance allowed participants to experience a profound sense of peace and purpose, making the retreat a memorable and transformative experience.

From February 2nd to 4th 2024, the Vinayalaya Retreat House welcomed 22 participants for the Ignatian Inner Healing Retreat. This unique gathering combined Ignatian spirituality with charismatic healing prayer, offering attendees a transformative experience. Led by Frs. Wesley, Vincent, and Br. Seby, alongside assistance from Frs. Gerard and Learoy during Mass and adoration, the retreat focused on themes of brokenness, forgiveness, healing, and renewal.

Throughout the retreat, participants engaged in guided meditations and received insightful teachings, fostering deep introspection and spiritual growth. The atmosphere was serene, providing a space for attendees to explore their inner selves and find healing. As the retreat concluded, participants expressed gratitude for the profound impact it had on their lives.

Looking ahead, many attendees eagerly anticipate future retreats, eager to continue their spiritual journey. This retreat served as a beacon of hope, inspiring all to embrace faith and inner healing.

The "A New Beginning" retreat, led by the Vinayalaya team from January 5th to 7th, 2024, welcomed 25 participants. Focused on Ignatian meditation, the event featured talks by Frs Gerard, Learoy, Vincy, and Wesley. Br Seby's guided meditations introduced attendees to Ignatian Spirituality and new prayer methods. Positive feedback emphasizes a collective sense of renewal and spiritual awakening from this impactful weekend. Participants expressed gratitude for the enriching experience.

On October 14th 2023, we conducted a highly successful workshop titled "Discover the Treasure Within You" on Ignatian values for educators and formators. The event drew 30 participants from prestigious institutions like Holy Family, St. Xavier's College, Divine Child, and Canossa.

This workshop was enriched by the invaluable contributions of Frs Lisbert Dsouza and Vincent Saldanha, who shared their profound insights, deepening the participants' understanding of Ignatian values. Mr. Vincent D'Souza effectively facilitated the program, ensuring active engagement and meaningful interactions. Fr. Wesley D'Costa provided essential Ignatian inputs, shedding light on the core principles.

The workshop received high praise from the participants, underscoring its impact and success. The positive feedback affirmed the quality of content and discussions, highlighting its effectiveness in enriching the understanding and practice of Ignatian values among educators and formators.

We express our sincere gratitude for the encouragement, prayers, and support extended to make this event possible. This workshop played a pivotal role in fostering a deeper appreciation of Ignatian values, equipping participants to integrate them into their roles as educators and formators, and will undoubtedly continue to inspire positive change in their communities.

On the 22nd of July 2023, we organized a one-day seminar titled ‘Discernment in Daily Life’. It was held at Vinayalaya Retreat House. We received an overwhelming response. It began at 10 am and went on till 4pm. The total number of participants was 120, out of which around 95 were lay persons and 25 were religious. In spite of the heavy rains, people came from long distances in order to know more about discernment. Fr Anil Pereira encouraged the gathering by giving the inaugural address. Sessions were then given by Dn. Sumit D’Souza, Frs. Learoy Rodrigues, Vincent Saldanha, Wesley D’Costa and Gerard Rodricks. The audience were very attentive. They were a mix of people from different age groups and from different parishes. Many were encountering Ignatian Spirituality for the first time. They all gave very positive feedback about their experience and went away completely satisfied by the sessions and program of the day.