DMS Teachers Reflect on The Called and Gifted Retreat

Submitted by Gayle Pai, Edited by Levanna Eugenio

Gayle Pai and Judith Cariño along with attendees of the ERCB Called and Gifted Retreat.

Settled in the quiet suburbs of Burlingame, California, is the Mercy Center run by the Sisters of Mercy. The Center was the venue for this year’s ERCB Called and Gifted Retreat held on October 13-16, 2025.

It was an opportunity for the Edmund Rice Christian Brother (ERCB) schools from North America to gather and to reflect on the life of Blessed Edmund Rice. Teachers and administrators shared stories about their gifts as they recalled those who inspired them to travel on their own path.

Participants were given the opportunity to deepen their own personal understanding of their call to minister. It was an intimate way for the 17 participants to network with colleagues from the other ERCB schools.

“The Sisters of Mercy Center was the perfect setting for the retreat,” shared 9th grade English teacher, Judith Cariño. “We stayed in simple rooms with no television and plenty of time to reflect on the messages imparted to us,” she added.

Cariño also shared her favorite part of the retreat. “I especially enjoyed the labyrinth. My walk through the winding, circular, sometimes confusing path became a metaphor for my journey through life. It was good to get to know and learn from the other teachers and administrators that were there. I am thankful for the entire experience.”

The Mercy Labyrinth is open during daytime hours for retreat participants and visitors alike. It is a place of quiet, contemplation, and meditation.

Along with Cariño was our middle school English teacher, Gayle Pai, who also attended the retreat. She reflected on how the experience deepened her understanding of God’s purpose. “Ultimately, this retreat helped me to not only uncover the gifts given to me from the Holy Spirit, but it reminded me of God’s mission that I need ‘to serve others’ along my journey.”