Trappist Monastery in Jordan, Guimaras Will Tell You, 'Welcome to Guimaras'

Among Assumption-Iloilo personnel, December used to be the 'retreat' month. Well, we're always excited about the 'retreat' because it's the only time for us to somehow get a different perspective on life and on our chosen path. But for me, at least, it's my 'lagaw ( read: gala )' time. Oh please, don't take my concept of 'lagaw' as something negative. Lagaw for me is purposeful. I don't just go to places and let loose. I wander. I observe. I appreciate. I learn.

For two straight years, 2010 and 2011, our annual 'Faculty and Staff Retreat' was held in Trappist Monastery in Jordan, Guimaras. The exact name of the place is 'The Abbey of the Philippines' and is run by the Monks of the Cistercian Order.

The Cistercians, who were founded in France, live a life dedicated to the contemplative search for God. Cistercian monasteries are located in solitary places in the country for the sake of living more quiet and hidden lives in simplicity.

The monastery in Guimaras was founded by the United States Region in 1972 and is the only men's monastery of the Order in the Philippines. The whole place is vast with a rather large church built in 1997 and a modern guesthouse with private facilities. They welcome those who wish to spend some days with them in prayer and meditation, joining in prayer at the office and mass along with the monastic community.

How to Go There

In Iloilo City, the pumpboat terminal going to Jordan Wharf is in Brgy. Ortiz near the University of Iloilo. The pumpboat leaves as soon as all its seats are occupied. Fare is less than Php15. Travel time is around 15-20 minutes.

From Jordan Wharf, you can either take a jeepney or hire a tricycle which costs not more than Php100. In our case, we had pre-arranged transportation because there were more than 50 of us.

On the pumpboat crossing the Iloilo Strait going to the island-province of Guimaras