1954- Manresa Retreat House: A Place of Retreat and Formation

The story of Manresa Retreat House began with the generosity of the Tuazon-Araneta families, who donated land in Banawe, Quezon City. At the time, the area was still sparsely populated and was considered an ideal setting for a retreat house and a novitiate. The property eventually became the site of both Manresa Retreat House and the Holy Name of Jesus Novitiate.

The retreat house was formally established on June 4, 1954, during the centenary celebration of the Marian Year. From its beginnings, it served as a place where people could withdraw from the demands of daily life and dedicate time to prayer and reflection. Retreats were initially offered to workers and to some Spanish-speaking women.

During its early years, the retreat house experienced a growing demand for retreats, with a steady increase in the number of people coming to participate. This momentum, however, was affected by the social and political unrest that preceded Martial Law in 1972, when student activism and growing tensions in society led to a significant decline in the number of retreatants.

In response to the limited financial resources of the retreat house, a kindergarten school was opened in June 1971. In time, however, retreats became more regular again, and interest in spiritual retreats among adults and young people was renewed. At the same time, aspirants began coming to Manila, creating a growing need for spaces dedicated to initial formation.

On December 28, 1977, the kindergarten school was closed to make way for the Postulancy and to safeguard the atmosphere of silence necessary for both retreats and the Novitiate. Thus, the place gradually took on an even more significant role in the formation of young women preparing to enter religious life.

The Provincialate was also established as part of the retreat house, making Manresa not only a place of prayer and retreat but also a significant center for formation, governance, and the life and mission of the Congregation.