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STRIVING FOR EXCELLENCE...ALL FOR THE GLORY OF GOD
Written by:  Ms. Maria Theresa V. Dotillos

          The whole educative community of Sacred Heart School-Hijas de Jesus participated in the annual Intramurals with fun, camaraderie, and competition through sports and games last September 18-19, 2008, with the blessings of bright and sunny weather.

      

SHS-HDJ Intramurals '08 Parade of Colors

   The event began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, where all were one as a family in thanking and invoking God's guidance, followed by a simple yet heartwarming parade of participants, athletes, faculty and officials.

          Then proceeded the most awaited Cheer Dance Competition where the High School students formally unveiled their creative and innovative dance steps and cheers to their fellow Hearters, teachers, guests and visitors from the University of San Carlos-North Campus, St. Theresa's College and Colegio dela Inmaculada Concepcion.  The discipline, persistence, determination and leadership displayed by the students paid off as they mesmerized everyone with their fresh and exciting moves.

                  Win or lose, the spirit of filiation lives on.              A Junior and Senior hug after a game.

          Teamwork and sportsmanship was the general spirit in the campus as the students continuously cheered for their favored teams, whether in the parlor games of the Pre-school, the racket events and board games of the Graders, or the major sports events like volleyball, soccer, baseball and basketball of the High School.

          Witnessing the rich, diverse and creative talents of the youth has indeed been an exhilirating experience.  But best of all, seeing students cheer, congratulate or give comfort to others from a different grade or year level was an affirmation that beyond the competition, the spirit of filiation and family truly existed among us.

          All in all, Intramurals 2008 in SHS-HDJ had been memorable and successful.  It has challenged everyone to push themselves for the better, not only for the sake of excellence, but more importantly, for the greater glory of God.

Hooray! SHS-HDJ Pupils in action!

SACRED HEART SCHOOL-HIJAS DE JESÚS’ WAY OF CELEBRATING AUGUST 2008--
THE MOTHER FOUNDRESS MONTH

          The Sacred Heart School – Hijas de Jesus launched the Mother Foundress week through a power point presentation highlighting her spirituality of Filiation – Fraternity with the theme “ One with Candida in celebrating God in each other’s presence as brothers and sisters.” This was reinforced in the respective Catholic Life Formation classes following a theme assigned to the different grade/year levels. (See graph below) August 5, 7 and 8, the school had the triduum prayer on the virtues of Mother Candida (Faith, Love for the poor and Simplicity-Humility). The triduum prayer led the students/pupils to reflect on these virtues and to ask themselves, am I growing in these virtues? 

 

 

          The event was culminated with a Liturgical celebration and the Youth camp. One of the activities was the testimony-giving of two students (one elementary, one high school) and Mrs. Ludette Halaba, currently a Grade Two teacher who has been with the school for almost eight years now. They shared the impact of Mother Foundress in their lives and how she has been their constant guide and intercessor leading them to have greater love and affection for Jesus. The participants listened intently after which they were asked to make their “covenant.” This was their promise to grow in one particular virtue of Mother Cándida in their lives at present.

Covenant-Making

Pitching tent for the Youth Camp

    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

          At 5:00pm, a  film showing entitled “The Ultimate Gift,” was viewed by the participants The movie was all about accepting one’s person for who he / she is and not for what he / she has. This served as a challenge for the students to grow in person as a child of God. This was followed by the Genrev concert, where the students joined in music and dance as they praised Jesus.  The “Amazing Race” was the highlight of the Youth Camp. Students were divided into fifteen groups and there were also fifteen stations were they needed to go. Each station had a game or challenge based on the life episode of Mother Cándida. They had to accomplish this before moving to the next station. When all the groups finished the “Amazing Race,” a prayer & praise activity culminated the whole event. Although tired from the race, the students not only had fun but more importantly they also learned to appreciate & follow the virtues of Mother Cándida. The further processing & deepening of the MF celebration especially the Amazing Race was followed through by the the Catholic Life Formation (CLF) teachers in their respective classes.

          On August 21, 2008, five hundred sixty-three students of Camputhaw Elementary School interacted with the students of Sacred Heart School – Hijas de Jesús. A powerpoint presentation on the life of Mother Cándida was shown to them. After this, games and other activities followed. Before going home, pails of joy were distributed to them. It could be seen how well our pupils/students took care of their “bata” and how they attended to their needs.

Grade One                    Little Juanita friend of the poor
Grade Two                   Little Juanita and her love for the Eucharist
Grade Three                Juanita’s friendship with Jesus
Grade Four                   Juanita’s obedience to the Father
Grade Five                    Juanita’s service to the poor
Grade Six                      Young life
Year One                     Blessed Candida’s vocation – I am for God alone
Year Two                     Foundation of the Hijas de Jesus
Year Three                   Missionary and Apostolic work
Year Four                     The legacy of Blessed Candida Maria de Jesus

MANRESA SCHOOL NEWS UPDATE

 

MANRESA SCHOOL CROSSED THE LAND OF WANDERS

 

            The thrust of Manresa School is to give quality Christian education to children/ students, thus preparing them become well- balanced, integrated and mature persons of the Church and the society at large. With this in mind, the school never stops providing venues to fulfill its goal, finding new ways to nourish the students’ total being through formative and academic activities. Its instructional programs offer varied exposures in spiritual, social, political, and cultural aspects of the children. An essential part of these exposures is to provide experiential learning activities to supplement and enrich the classroom instructions.

            This school year, the school’s field learningexperiential learning is an opportunity to watch a world- class musical show, “Wanders,” “The Best Musical Show in Asia” a one of a kind show that brings together the elements of theatre, concert, circus and dance in a multi- media setting.

            It was September 17, when the students excitedly went to Pagcor Grand Theatre, Paranaque City, Metro Manila and watched the captivating and entertaining show with a fusion of cultures performed by international talents. The students did not only enjoy the show but were able to appreciate and learn the importance of honing ones skills and gifts. With this come a conviction that when you want to achieve something, you need to have   a lot of discipline, perseverance, commitment and practice. These realizations as well as the  learning process were followed – up in the class by the different subject areas.

 

MANRESA SCHOOL CELEBRATES MO. CANDIDA’S FEAST DAY

          Manresans once again have joyfully and enthusiastically lived-out its maxim in letting God’s glory shine to all men and women as they had a long month celebration of the 96th year death anniversary of Blessed Candida Ma. de Jesus and the Buwan Ng Wika.  The Pastoral Ministry Team together with the Filipino Department came up with activities that really helped the entire community of Manresa appreciate, value and love Blessed Candida Ma. de Jesus  with special appreciation and respect for our Filipino language. This year’s theme explicitly expresses the desire of each Manresan to shine as they put their hearts and minds together in glorifying God through Mo. Candida expressed in these words “Pagpapahalaga Sa Wika …Pagmamahal Kay Madre Candida… Isang Layunin, Sabay Nating Pagningningin.” The long month celebration was fully packed with the following activities: Agosto 1- Paggamit ng Wikang Filipino Sa Buong Tatlong Linggo ng Buwan ng Agosto; Agosto 6- Pagbubukas ng Exhibit ng mga Natatanging Gawa ng mga mag- aaral sa CLE at Filipino; Agosto 8- Pagdiriwang Ng Banal Na Misa; Pagkakarooon ng Wwis Bi Pagkatapos Ng Misa;  Pagsususot ng Filipiniana ng mga Mag-aaral,Guro at lahat ng kasambahay ng Manresa School;  Pagbabahaginan ng Sariling Pagkaing Pinoy Na Sabay Kakainin sa recess ng mga Elementarya ; at Hayskul; Para- Liturgy Activity Ng Mga Grade I at Grade II sa Awditoryum; Kwis Bi Sa Buhay Ni Madre Candida ;Agosto 9- Kapistahan Ni Madre Candida ; Agosto 15- Sandwich Sharing Sa Mga Ate at Kuya ng Mga Pre-Schoolers; Agosto 21- Programa Ng Linggo Ng Wika NG Elementarya Na Gaganapin Sa Gymn Sa Oras Ng Interest Club;  Agosto 22-Programa Ng Linggo Ng Wika Ng Mga  Hayskul.

            

 KWIS BI SA BUHAY NI MADRE CANDIDA NG MGA PRE- SCHOOLERS.

Special activities that highlighted the celebration was the Eucharistic Celebration officiated by Fr. Jonjie Sumpayco, SJ who also did the honor of blessing the new  extension building situated at the back of the Sophia Building.

           On the other hand a Quiz Bee in the life of Blessed Candida Ma. De Jesus in all levels were held after the mass where everybody experienced the joy and excitement in remembering the significant events in the life of Blessed Candida  whose joy is to see many children come to school to receive Christian education. And truly, Manresans really shine as they culminate the affair showcasing their skills and talents in the different presentations they presented during the program. Truly, the month of August is something to be remembered.      

     PRE- SCHOOLERS CELEBRATE BLESSED CANDIDA MA. DE JESUS’ FEAST

          A tribute in honor of Blessed Candida Maria de Jesus, participated in by the pre- schoolers, was held at the MS Auditorium, last August 27, 2008. The two- part program started with a solemn prayer led by selected pupils of Prep- Faith and Prep- Confidence followed by a skit that revisited the highlights of the life of our dear Mother Foundress. Little Juanita’s simplicity and generosity reflected much in the play as Lia Abigail Maranan and Sophia Michaela Yamsuan both pupils of prep. take the lead roles.
            Applause and appreciation continued as the program progressed where the youngsters took the center stage and revealed their dancing prowess wearing their Filipiniana costumes as they performed the Filipino dances which they chose to interpret. Kalapati By Joy/Peace; Magtanim Ay Di Biro by Nursery Love; Interpretasyong Awit  by Prep Hope; Paru- Parong Bukid by Kinder Faith and Subli  by Kinder Hope 

                    LITTLE JUANITA’S LEAGUE REACHES OUT

          The Pre-schoolers of Manresa School filled the gymnasium with joy as they shared omelet sandwiches to our maintenance and staff last August 15, 2008.

          This omelet sharing activity is an annual event to commemorate Little Juanita’s own acts of kindness and love for the poor. With eagerness and delight, our youngsters from the Nursery, Kinder and Prep. Levels showcased their talents and skills and performed their own musical snack for their “ates and “kuyas.” Indeed the pre- schoolers had an early taste of joy in helping and giving as they feel the warm and friendly smiles from their recipients.  In exchange of the kids generosity and love shown to them, the recipients shower them with numerous claps with a heartfelt “ Thank You.” With this, Juanita’s footsteps were truly relived.   

                                         THE ANGELS' DAY

          One of the best gifts that the Manresans offered to Mo. Candida on the occasion of her 96th year death anniversary was the seminar on “Pagpapaunlad sa Kakayahan ng mga Kasambahay”  sponsored by the Guidance and Testing Office with Manresa School Parents Auxiliary (MSPA). It was held last August 30, 2008 from 8:00 am to 12;00 noon. The Blessed Candida Ma. de Jesus Conference Room was filled with young ladies as 31 of the preschoolers’ yayas responded to the invitation.

   MANRESA SCHOOL PARENTS AUXILIARY (MSPA) INDUCTION CEREMONY

          Manresa School recognizes the important and unique contribution of Parents in the Christian Formation of their children. In line with this, the Manresa School Parents Auxiliary ( MSPA) Officers, Executive Board Members and Section Representatives had their Induction Ceremony at Manresa School Main Audio Visual Room on August 3, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. The ceremony started with a Eucharistic Celebration officiated by Fr. Aloysius Maranan, OSB. After the mass, the Induction of Section Representatives followed with Sr. Rebecca Loreto, the Superior and School Treasurer as inducting officer. The induction of Officers and its Executive Board was led by Sr. Nelida Penaflorida, the Directress- Principal.                                                                                                                                                        

          The afternoon ended with a Valedictory Address given by the out- going president Engr. Danilo Perez where he said: “What matters is not what we have accomplished- that is behind us. Certainly the future is in the hands of the next generation of MSPA Officers that as yet, lie before us”. True enough because what is important is the disposition that “What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us.”( Ralph Waldo Emerson). After this touching speech was the Turn-Over Ceremony where Archt. and Mrs. Angeles and Aurea Articulo accepted the MSPA banner which symbolizes the responsibility that has passed on unto them: the mission to continue collaborating with the school in the integral formation of the children as a way of participating in the promotion of God’s Kingdom here on Earth.         

MORE PICTURES...

   

 

 

Colegio de la Inmaculada Concepcion, Pototan

MOTHER FOUNDRESS' DAY -  THE LEGACY LIVES ON
 
             Blessed Candida truly lives in the heart of every CICian.  The love for Mother Foundress is continuously blazing especially in the month of August   as everybody commemorates her death anniversary.  CICians really have that ardent desire to live the virtues of Mother Foundress and it is always manifested through their endless generosity of sharing their abundance to the needy.

            August 2008 is another wonderful experience for all the CICians.  A triduum on August 5-7 awakened their consciousness that once there lived a woman of exemplary life centered in Christ, fully dedicated to imitate and to live the virtues of the Blessed Mother – the Virgin Mary, and one who had unconditional love for the poor and the marginalized. This simple but touching celebration was highlighted by a Eucharistic celebration on August 8, when pupils and students offered some items for their less fortunate brothers and sisters. The grade school pupils joyfully brought packs of bread and a pack of juice while the high school students and some pupils in the elementary generously shared two pieces of eggs . These offerings were lovingly made by the faculty and staff into hundreds of omelet which were then given to the kinder pupils around the town, the patients in the pediatrics section of Iloilo Provincial Hospital in Pototan and the inmates in the prison cell of the town as an out-reach activity of that same day. Having the teachers prepared the omelet and sharing the life and virtues of the Foundress themselves made them feel the presence of Blessed Candida's spirit around.  "As if she was everywhere in the campus wearing a smile for  everyone," uttered by Lane Sumagaysay, the principal who has been in CIC for twenty years.  The battle of the brains in the quiz bowl and the extemporaneous speech contest impressed the Sisters because the students seemed to have truly internalized the Foundress' life and teachings.  They intelligently answered questions asked about the facts related to Blessed Candida since her birth until she joyfully left this earth and had a grand reunion with her Creator in heaven on August 9, 1912. 

            Time flies so fast and Pototanons have realized that CIC is now on its seventy-six year of existence, bringing forth Christian education within the reach of everyone.  With the profound desire of Blessed Candida to go to the uttermost part of the world in search for souls, the Almighty God enabled the six pioneer Sisters to reach Pototan to sow a single seed that has grown so much, flourished magnificently and has been successfully nurturing many souls bringing them closer to God. 

Catarman, Camiguin Island

MOTHER FOUNDRESS’ CELEBRATION
 
            Indeed it was a joyful day for all the families and communities of Hijas de Jesus as they celebrated the  feast day of our Mo.Foundress: Candida Ma. de Jesus. In Catarman, the community had a different way of celebrating this time. The Fiorals-Dev members opted to donate Php 3,000.00 to Calamity Fund of the Province instead of  the usual “salu-salu” or agape which they have been doing for the fast few years. They chose to donate the amount because they were moved by what had happened to the typhoon victims in Iloilo . They said that even in their poverty, they want to share the blessings which they received from God.  
           
          On August 9, the day of Mother Foundress, the members of FIORALS-Dev helped in the cleaning of the Parish Church as their town fiesta is fast approaching. This is also another expression of their love for Mo. Foundress. According to them,  Mother Foundress was service-oriented and generous so they want to imitate her by their service to the Church. The F.I. Sisters offered them lunch. After lunch,  Sr. Felisa Molina, F.I., the Provincial Vocation Ministry Coordinator, who was here, conducted a search-in.  She shared something about the life of Mo. Foundress and had interaction with the participants. Then after this activity, the community had a little party with some dancing and singing. Every one was happy and contented with their simple celebration for it was in its simplicity that had made it a more  significant and meaningful  experience for them. .  

 SPECIAL FEATURE:    JP Mondejar

COLEGIO DE LAS HIJAS DE JESUS, ILOILO CITY

A TALK GIVEN BY JOHN PAUL MONDEJAR DURING THE CELEBRATION                                    OF MOTHER FOUNDRESS’ DAY

“May the most pure Virgin  shelter us beneath her mantle.”

To our dear Directress Sr. Emelinda C. Falsis F.I., Sisters, our Principal, Ms. Lea Cababasay, members of the Faculty and Staff and my beloved and dearest fellow CHJians!

Good morning! Buenos dias! I’m so glad to be speaking in front of you today. This morning i will talk about a holy woman from Spain who changed my life and the life of the Mondejar family. The name of this woman is very familiar to all of us, CHJians!

               MOTHER CANDIDA MARIA DE JESUS

The woman to whom I owe what I am today and  what my family is.
How did it start?

                It all started in 1950 when my great great grandfather enrolled my grandmother, Exmila Mondejar in Colegio de las Hijas de Jesus under the Spanish Hijas de Jesus sisters. She lived there as an intern what we call “interna” under the care of Mo. Natividad Garcia F.I.. She graduated in 1955.  1971 was the year the Hijas de Jesus took over St. James Catholic High School,  Maasin, Iloilo, from the Mill Hill Missionaries. That was the time my family grew more closely to the Hijas de Jesus. My father John, my uncles Francisco Jr. and Anthony Gerard studied at St. James Catholic High School while my Aunt Bingbing studied at CHJ and like my grandmother,  she was also a “interna”.

Why did I say that I owe her what I am?

          My parents got married on October 7, 1989,  but there was big problem. Both of them have reproductive problems so it was impossible for them to have a child,  but the Hijas de Jesus Sisters told them not to lose hope and seek the help of Mo. Candida. They did novena prayers to her starting on August 1, 1993 and ending  on August  9, 1993,  the death anniversary or feast day of Mo. Candida. It also happens that August 9 is my mother’s birthday. A few days before their 4th wedding anniversary, my mother got sick and they went to the doctor,  but the doctor wouldn’t give her any medicine unless she undergoes pregnancy test, and  so she sent her urine sample to Ramon Tabiana Hospital in Cabatuan, Iloilo. The results were positive! My mother couldn’t believe that she was pregnant with me! The next day, October 7, 1993,  their 4th wedding anniversary, they attended the Holy Mass and the Gospel was about the Annunciation. My father and Mother cried for that was a sign from God, our loving Father, that I was in the womb of my mother. The sisters and my family were very happy and predicted that the child was a girl for it was given by Mo. Candida.  Sr. Nelida Peñaflorida, F.I., the present Directress of Manresa School, suggested the name to be Candie Marie. They expected that Mama will give birth on May 31, the birthday of Mo. Candida, but I was in a hurry to go out to see the world and so, on the 18th of May 1994, I was born in Iloilo Doctors’ Hospital at 2:02pm. My mother decided to name me John Klein but Tita Bingbing  and the late Sr.Jesusa Belosillo, F.I. wanted to change the name into John Paul for May 18 was the birthday of  Pope John Paul II.

          Two years after my birth, Mo. Candida, together with Sr. Ma. Antonia Bandres, F.I. were beatified by Pope John Paul II on May 12, 1996  at St. Peter’s Square in Rome, Italy. That occasion was also a blessing to my family for my grandmother went to Rome as one of the two delegates of the Hijas de Jesus,  Philippine Province. Meeting the Pope, seeing the eternal city of Rome and reading the Charism of Mo. Foundress before Pope John Paul II was unforgettable on her part. It deepened more her faith and love for Mo. Candida and the Hijas de Jesus.

          When I was just  three years old, I only knew two Saints: St. Therese of the Child Jesus and Mo. Candida (whom I considered as a saint). My grandmother was a teacher at St. James Catholic High of Hijas de Jesus in Maasin, Iloilo and I always visited her there. The sisters were very kind to me and they always would tell me: “JP, pray  always to Mo. Foundress”.

          I, myself, was fond of collecting statues of saints and love to pray.  When Sr. Florence, the Mother Provincial that time and some sisters visited our house when I was three, she saw all my collections (which was only four statues at that time, but now, I have 164), I  heard her talking that she was going to Rome in two weeks.  She asked what statue would I like from Rome.  I  said “I lack one, Tita Florence. She answered “who?”, and I said  “Mama Candida!” (the name I call Mo. Candida when I was three). The sisters laughed and said,”grabe! He really loves Mo. Foundress”. The sisters always gave me Mo. Candida’s pictures and chocolates.

          1999 was the year I started to study here at Colegio de las Hijas de Jesus in Iloilo City. I can still remember when I first entered  my Alma Mater, I was feeling more of Mo. Candida’s presence. Here at  CHJ, I was able to discover more about Mo. Candida when I read the Weaver’s Daughter, Juanitatxo, God Wills It! And I even got to know the story of a nun who was beatified together with Mo. Candida, Blessed Antonia Bandres. I developed here at CHJ, love for Jesus & Mary, love for Mo. Candida and love for Hijas de Jesus community.

          My love for the Virgin Mary was deepened when I attended my Tita Bingbing’s wedding because instead of the traditional  bouquet throwing, she gave instead her bouquet to Sr. Florence, to be offered to the Virgin Mary. In that occasion, I was deeply struck  for I can see that I could also make sacrifices for Jesus and Mary in my own little way.

Was she also there in the darkest times of my life?
                                                                                                                 
          My answer is yes because 2006 was  a year she really comforted me because many trials came to me: first, on July 25, 2006,  my dearest grandfather died. At 3:30 am, my father did not hesitate to call Sr. Nelida to tell my grandmother and Tita Bingbing the terrible news. To assure my grandmother’s safe trip to Iloilo, they sent Sr. Rebecca to accompany her. I was touched and felt comforted when sisters from other communities in Iloilo and Manila came to Maasin to pay their last respects to my grand father; second, another trial came. my Tita Bingbing was diagnosed with a very rare cancer. She needed an operation in the U.S. which would cost millions of pesos. I was  afraid for her life and for my cousins who are very young to lose their mother. I prayed to Mo. Candida and so did my family. Indeed she responded. My Tita was able to raise money from her friends and family members in a short period of time and had an operation in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.A last February 2007.

How does one look at all these, in the eyes of a 14 year-old like me?

          It seems  like  it is going through the natural course of life. These may not  be  big or small  to us but it’s just a part of growing up but the Hijas de Jesus  experience from a child like me struck me so deeply, from cramming to asking Mo. Candida’s intervention in the song adaptation last year  and like winning the song adaptation contest  which made me and my dear Year I-Wisdom very happy. To receive a statue of Mo. Candida from the Provincial Superior, I was very touched and felt very proud and important. Of course, there were times when  Mo. Candida did not give me what I wanted like  joining the World Youth Day 2008 in Sydney, Australia to see Pope Benedict XVI. I was not able to go because of my age and was not able to get a U.S. visa which made me very very angry.
Hence, my family compensated it in other fun & joyful moments and sad moments, my Tita Bingbing fighting for her life makes me feel so sad that I  make “kulit” of Mo. Candida when I stayed in Makati Medical Center because  her cancer might  come back saying, after I prayed the Rosary: “Mother,  indi man bi magpabungolbungol. Malu-oy ka man!”
And to feel proud to get the special attention of the sisters,  even the pioneer.  By  being able to speak  “Español” to Sr. Teresa Garcia, F.I., Mo. Natividad Garcia, F.I. and the oldest of all the sisters, Mo. Rosa Alonso, F.I. ,who is turning 104 years old!
I am very very sure of feelings of highs and lows and I know my life is just like a roller coaster- full of laughter and tears, just like you who are going through your own roller coaster ride in your own life.

Will my prayers be granted in the very way I want them to?

          Yes and no, but I am sure, Mo. Candida’s  life and love story with God had planted a deep seed in my heart and I will take good care of it. I am responsible to make the seed grow and turn to the direction where God wills it to be.

          My beloved fellow CHJians, always remember that the world is too small for the desire of our role model. I hope that little Juanita, who grew up to be financially poor but rich in desire for Jesus and Mary, will remind us that we  are loved and very important whatever is our status in life. Each one of us has a purpose here on earth. Let’s live and love it.

          Remember, nothing stopped Mo. Candida from fulfilling her mission to be a Foundress of schools. And remember that at that time, she couldn’t  read nor write. So what can stop us from being a joyful, generous, compassionate and loving children of God. So let’s be happy of who and what we are. Ok? Promise ha?

My love and embrace for each one of you.
God bless you all!

 

 SEMINAR ON RESPONSIBLE PARENTHOOD

            Sr.Malou Guillano, F.I. from the community of Catarman, Camiguin attended a seminar last August 12, 2008 which was held at the Xavier University in Cagayan de Oro. The topic of the seminar was “Responsible Parenthood, Population and Development: Where are we today?” .In line with this, three topics was given: Perspectives on Population and Development: Facts and Theories given by Dr. Alejandro Herrin, Professor of Economics, UP Diliman; Catholic Perspectives on the Population Issue by Rev. Fr. Ramon Echica, Dean of Studies at San Carlos Seminary, Cebu City ; and lastly, Humanae Vitae: A Summary, Explanation and Defense by Rev. Fr. Alberto Uy, Academic Dean at  St. John Vianney Theological Seminary. 

          It was emphasized that the use of the Natural Family Planning is the only acceptable method of family planning because the use of artificial contraception is against the law of the Church. The participants were all encouraged to be well informed about this program in order to help married couples preserve and protect life. For “marriage invests the dignity of a sacramental sign of peace, in as much as it represents the union of Christ and of the Church”.  

          The seminar was also graced by the presence of Archbishop Antonio Ledesma,S.J.,D.D., who is also one of the main promoters of this program in the Archdiocese of Cagayan. (See Readings on Current Issues for more information on this topic)

 

           MANRESA SCHOOL COMMUNITY RESPONDS TO "FRANK'S" VICTIMS

 

          The typhoon Frank that recently hit our country affected much the Visayas Region especially Iloilo. The National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) already declared Region 6 as state of calamity as numerous properties and houses have already been damaged and many of our brothers and sisters have died. This incident caused them a lot of suffering and pain as nothing had left with them except the hope that they will experience God’s love and generosity through the generous people that are willing to extend their help in whatever form.

            In this kind of situation, Manresa School Community responded with charity and love as Sr. Nelida Penaflorida, the Directress/ Principal informed everyone the urgency of the circumstance and encouraging each one to help in whatever way and form to respond to the needs of our brothers and sisters who were greatly affected by the devastating typhoon. As brothers and sisters of one Father, the desire to be one with our people who were victims of this typhoon is great. Thus inspired and guided by the Spirit of Blessed Candida Maria de Jesus, Manresans desire to live out its thrust in incarnating the Father’s love and concern for the poor was made real as the community launched a campaign inviting and encouraging the faculty and staff, sisters, students alumni and parents to share their donations like old- clothes, cash, blankets, medicine, canned goods or any instant food to the school to respond to the needs of our brothers and sisters who were in  great need. Through the concerted effort of each one, the school was able to raise 156 boxes of assorted canned goods and usable clothing and the cash amounted to 110,000 pesos. As one family, the teachers, students, sisters and staff were the ones who helped in the assorting and packing of the donations. Coursed through the Taos Puso Foundation Incorporated (TPFI) headed by their Executive Director and ABS-CBN Iloilo host Atty. Joebert Penaflorida, the gathered donations were distributed to the affected families of Barangay Ungka II, Pavia, Barangay Cagay, Alimodian and San Miguel in Iloilo. Remembering the words of Mo. Candida which says: “Where there is no room for my poor, neither is there for me”, Manresans really did shine as they become the living presence of Jesus in the midst of helplessness, pain, anguish and hopelessness of our brothers and sisters who were affected by the typhoon in Iloilo.

            “Love never ends.” As Manresa Community continues its campaign to help our brothers and sisters in need, the school was chosen by CEAP as the Dropped- Out Center of all the donations coming from the different schools of Paranaque, Las Pinas and other private agencies. And as one Christian family let’s together proclaim the love and concern of God the Father to all by truly showing our love, concern and support to them as they experience the perverse circumstance in their life.         

 

 

 

           COLEGIO DE LAS HIJAS DE JESUS, ILOILO CITY                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

                    

                           (click to expand) Pictures from hijasdejesusiloilocity

TYPHOON “FRANK”: RAGED THROUGH PANAY
By Jane Tristeza 

          The provinces of Iloilo, Aklan, Capiz and Antique as well as Iloilo City, were placed under a state of calamity as the death toll from the powerful sweep by Typhoon Frank mounted last Saturday, June 21, 2008 early in the morning. Many people were caught unprepared when typhoon Frank unleashed violent winds and monstrous floods.

          Communications were cut off by the week end typhoon that left at least 163 people dead and flooded communities. Most of the victims drowned in floods, and the major concern of our local government is how to prevent outbreak of diseases especially water born illnesses and respiratory tract infections. There were hospitals which were also damaged.

          Elsewhere in the Visayas, Frank left many lives destroyed and over 200 missing. While displacing thousands of families in Negros Occidental, Cebu and Eastern Visayas.

          Several Schools and Churches served as evacuation centers for the victims, like the Iloilo National High School and Jaro Cathedral. An estimation of 198, 545 persons here in Iloilo City are in evacuation centers as 135 out of 180 barangays were flooded.

          In the face of the widespread destruction wrought by Frank, the victims sought refuge and help from those people who were not affected by the typhoon. The unaffected ones were motivated by their hearts to do their charitable acts. They unselfishly donated canned goods used clothing, money other ready to eat food and water.

          The flooding was a result of mans abuses to our forest. It is also a result of climate change. It is time for us to save our environment. It is an urgent alarm for all of us to restore the gradual destruction of our environment.

          We have experienced the worst tragedy in western Visayas. We should have a high regard for the value of human life.

          Recently, there is no sign of life for those who are still missing. The hopes of their families began to fade. Their faith started to quiver. This calamity has destroyed the beautiful sight of our environment and mother earth is suffering because of our collective greed.

          Behind our happiness, there are sorrows, but there is our dear loving father who looks down on us in accordance to His will, He allowed this calamity to happen. It is his special purpose so that we human beings will be reminded if our sinfulness, our irresponsible attitude in taking of his creations.

          We are his earth keepers of his wonderful creations. Let us cooperate hand in hand in achieving progress, harmony and national development. God always looks down and yet we have to do our part first.

          In response to Christian responsibility and mission, members of Colegio de las Hijas de Jesus Educative Family extend their generous help to the victims of the said calamity. As one big family, the students, parents, faculty and staff donated essential needs for survival, like canned goods, usable clothing, money and water. Some other teachers and students volunteered to visit and see the situation of those who were greatly affected. We the members of Hijas de Jesus will continue to live out the teachings of Jesus and the inspiration of Mother Candida in our lives that serves as remnants of a true CHJian spirit.

A MESSAGE FROM TYPHOON FRANK
By: Sahar Omar Al Abdalla

June 21, 2008, Saturday morning, typhoon Frank [Fengshen] hit the borders of Iloilo City flooding almost all of Panay and destroying millions of pesos worth of homes, bridges, buildings and other infrastructures. With winds raging at about 170 kilometers per hour, Frank swept away houses and rooftop leaving hundreds of families homeless, many children sick and injured, and again hundreds of lives lost and still missing.

Ships such as M/V Lake Paoay from Simirara Island and Princess of the stars in Romblon sunk because of mighty waves that have left hundreds of crew members and passengers dead and many are still missing. Yet even with the destruction brought about by this great calamity, the people did not lose hope in finding ways how to help and support their Filipinos brother and sisters who were physically and emotionally affected. Risking their own health and lives, many willing souls volunteered to help save the lives of the victims from the heavy current of the flood that swept away houses, trees and even animals and livestock from all around the province.

NAWASA pipe lines which supplies Iloilo City and nearby towns with potable water were heavily damaged, hence there is shortage of water all over the place. Metro Iloilo Water District officially announced their normal operation will resume if they can fully repair all the damages. Estimated time frame is within 4 – 6 months.

Typhoon Frank has left a message not only to the Iloilo Citizens, but to the whole world as well. The great destruction it has brought about has pierced the hearts of so many concerned people all over the world and prayers stream up to God once again. We have not been punished, but reminded that God still loves his children. In today's chaotic world, who would believe love still reigns. That love has truly been shown to us through the concerns and help of people, especially those who have risked their lives on that fateful day; the day we were given a message from the almighty Father through the horrific Typhoon Frank.

In reply to the urgent needs of our fellow brothers and sisters who are in the deepest need of our support, help and care, Colegio de las Hijas de Jesus sent prayers of love and compassion not only for the physically injured and materially weak people, but also to those who are emotionally and spiritually in need. Students and teachers have also been given a day for reflection and prayer so that we may be aware of the reality and the power of mother earth and cast upon in any place at any time. CHJ has continued to show love and service through simple donations of relief goods, clothing and even monetary donations.

Indeed, our hearts were touched deeply and our minds re-awakened to the endless need of love, faith and compassion that our world is in dire need of.

COLEGIO DE LA INMACULADA CONCEPCION
Hijas de Jesus, Pototan, Iloilo

SUMMER 2008

Summer 2008 was truly a busy, exciting and at the same time tiresome days but practically worthy and enriching for the CIC educators.
         
          Bonding among the teachers and staff was strengthened through the year-end get together outing last April 1, 2008 at Balaring Beach Resort, Barotac Viejo, Iloilo. On the other hand, with the desire to enhance the teaching skills and expertise of the teachers, the school sent five faculty members to the ESC Summer In-Service Training for third year teachers in Science, Math and Filipino held at Punta Villa, Arevalo, Iloilo City on April 14-16, 2008 and at Bacolod City for English on April 21-23, 2008.
         
          It was also a great achievement for the Hijas de Jesus, Philippine Province to gather the FI Administrators and Lay Collaborators from all the Apostolic Centers all over the country to a seminar-workshop which aimed to come up with a unified vision-mission in the incoming school year 2008-2009. CIC  was represented by Sr. Normita S. Anier, FI, the Directress, Mrs. Lane M. Sumagaysay, the Principal, Sr. Josefa P. Palmares, FI, the Grade School Activity Coordinator, Mr. Joemon G. Tortosa, the Grade School Academic Coordinator and Mr. Gilrie M. Laraya, the Student Discipline Coordinator. A re-echo of what had transpired at Manresa Retreat House where the seminar was held last April 25-27, 2008 was immediately conducted by the delegates last May 13-14, 2008 at the CIC Conference Room.

          Furthermore, still on the desire to improve teachers’ performance in the classroom, a seminar-workshop on the Professional Code of Ethics was conceptualized by the CIC administrators and was realized last May 16, 2008, with Professor Lorenza B. Padojinog as the resource speaker.  This very enriching activity was participated by 100% of the faculty and staff.

          This summer 2008 also paved the way for the alumni to gather for an alumni homecoming last May 3, 2008 at the CIC Covered Court. Nearly two hundred of them came, enjoyed the day with their classmates, cherished their past and share the joy and blessings of the present.

          As School Year 2008-2009 is about to open, it is a great hope that CIC educators look forward to share to the students the best of what they have acquired from the trainings and the formations they have undergone as instruments in the fulfillment of the school’s goals and objectives and as participants in the apostolate.

NEWS FROM STELLA MARIS ACADEMY OF DAVAO

Faculty Recollection:

The SMAD Faculty and Staff had their recollection at the Dominican House of Prayer, a place they go to annually.  The facilitator for this year’s retreat is Fr. Junar de la Victoria, and the retreat centered on the Lay as Christian Educators, and the Lay-Religious Collaboration in the Mission of Education.  The retreatants benefited much from the talks, the sharing, the moments of meditation.  They have resolved to strengthen their Emmaus groups and to try to look for venues by which they can serve the Church more.

Sr. Femy Solleza’s Silver Jubilee

Sr. Eufemia Solleza will celebrate her 25th anniversary as an Hija de Jesus on May 31, 2008.  The entire SMAD community is very excited about the affair.  A Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Parish to be attended by the entire faculty and staff in the morning of that day.  A very simple merienda will follow.  After that the teachers and staff will hold their socialization activities to know each other better before the new school year begins.

SMAD’s collaboration with the Parish Fiesta

Stella Maris will be the venue of this year’s annual Parish Fiesta.  The Parish Youth and the Filipino-Chinese Catholic Youth will hold Pinoy games, a movie, catechesis and youth activities from 9:00- 4:30 p.m. at the grounds of Stella Maris.  This is the school’s endeavor for a more active collaboration with the parish and to foster a sense of the Church among the members of its educative community.

MANRESA SCHOOL COMMUNITY
NEWS UPDATE

Under the dynamic leadership of the school’s directress- principal, Sr. Nelida Penaflorida, F. I., the desire for the improvement of the school curriculum in order to have a transformative style of learning was realized as Dr. Lilet D. Bautista from De La Salle University, Manila, conducted a Seminar- Workshop on the Re- engineering of the Curriculum last May 5-24, 2008 here at Manresa School.

Prior to this seminar, the Administration conducted the transmission on “Hijas de Jesus – Religious and Lay Educators Today (In Fidelity to the Hijas de Jesus Charism). In this encounter, the teachers were given a chance to re- visit the F. I. Vision – Mission in the Philippines in order to see and critique whether the schools’ Vision- Mission is aligned with that of the province. The process had made them become more inspired to immersed themselves in the re- engineering of the curriculum, working with love, enthusiasm  and with conviction that as they collaborate in the educative mission of the Hijas de Jesus they are also collaborating in the mission of the Universal Church. Truly, the  spirit  of Mo. Candida  is palpable in Manresa  School as manifested in the active collaboration and openness of the teachers in the formation that is given to them. And as they cherished and value the things that they have learned from the seminars, they have become confident and ready to respond to the future needs and demands of the educative mission with trust and confidence that united as one family and inspired by the spirit and charism of Mo. Candida, all will work for the sanctification of souls through Christian education for the greater glory of God.

NAZARETH SCHOOL
COMMUNITY EXTENSION SERVICE PROGRAM

The second batch of graduates was held at the Skills training hall of Nazareth School last March  14,  2008. Around 32 women residing within the vicinity of Nazareth School graduated from the sewing class of Centro  ng Sanayan at Kabuhayan para sa Kababaihan, a project of The Philippine Good Work Mission Foundation. Inc. and the Hijas de Jesus in cooperation with Community Builders Foundation, Inc, DSWD, National; Capital Region and the Dominican Laity of Santissimo Rosario Parish, UST. The project is funded by Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s Social Fund. The project is in response to the School’s outreach program of option for women.

The second batch of graduates

Bonding with the Alumni
Last May 24, Nazareth alumni led by Mrs. Yoly Magcalen, organized a short tour to Subic, where they went to Zoobic Safari. The community enjoyed the day not only with the tigers of Zoobic but of course with the alumni. This was done as part of the school’s program to bond with the alumni.

Nazareth School supports Caritas Hating Kapatid Rummage Sale.by donating 5 boxes of school supplies for the Caritas’ Scholarship program .

 

 

News…. AMRSP
The Women and Gender Commission of the Association of Major Religious Superiors in the Philippines (WGC-AMRSP) will have WOMEN BONDING SESSION on May 30, Friday, 2008, 1:00 – 4:00 in the afternoon, to be held at WGC Office, 1348 Quintos Street, corner Ma. Clara Street, Sampaloc, Manila.
Sr. Mary Juelar,fi. have been  invited to come and participate in this activity. Those who are invited will share their stories as women religious, as women working for empowerment and liberation, and how they sustain their  enthusiasm as women advocates.  The WOMEN BONDING SESSION is also a way of nurturing themselves, providing time for themselves to relax, unwind but in a meaningful way, celebrating their womanhood.

UNDERSTANDING THE YOUTH OF TODAY…
UNDERSTANDING THE TEACHERS OF TODAY…A CHALLENGE

A Sharing by Mr. Learnas to the educators of Nazareth School

Mr. Jaime B. Learnas, a pro-life advocate spoke and shared his expertise on understanding the youth of today and understanding the teachers of today. The talk of Mr. Learnas last May 29, 2008, awakened the teachers’ social and professional awareness faced with students’ belonging to the visual generation and fast changing world. A generation highly influenced by media and technology. He stressed that a teacher must have a thorough knowledge of him/herself by discovering

the child in him/her, healing his/her inner wound and knowing his own development. A teacher must possessed virtues; truthful, energetic, affirming, caring, honest, empowering and respectable. He/She must bring transformation, understand his commitment, limitations, must know the real meaning of love and to consider that teaching as a vocation make up an effective teacher.
influence of media, the youth and the society in the larger sense cannot do away with its horrible effects, The youth of today is one who lacks self esteem, lack of focus, lack of commitment, and with violent tendencies. These attitudes are because of a strong exposure to computer games which contain disturbing, traumatic, horrific and bloody ways of solving problems not mentioning the satanic influences of it.

As the speaker narrated more and shared evidences based on surveys and research, the more it challenges the teachers to ask this question, What is the role of a teacher? What is the role of the school? The talk was a challenge to all teachers to adapt to changing moral landscape, to counter moral laxity, to institute reforms in teaching techniques, to stress the need of and existence of God, the family and values, and to go back to the basics. .It is the role of a  teacher to protect the youth and their innocence, and as a teacher, he/she must make sure that the young generation entrusted to him/her can find a true teacher in him/her.

COLEGIO DE LAS HIJAS DE JESUS, Iloilo City

163rd Birthday Anniversary of Mo. Candida

Colegio de las Hijas de Jesus' educative family is one with the apostolic centers of F.I. Congregation in celebrating the 163rd Birth anniversary of the Foundress last May 31, 2008.

A Mass was celebrated at 8:30 in the morning presided by Fr. Ely Fuentes.  Several representatives from twelve families in Brgy Hipodromo attended the celebration.  The homily was focused on the simplicity of Mo. Foundress.  He stressed that we, Blessed Candida’s collaborators in the mission, are also called into a life of simplicity, thus our choices and way of doing things become less complicated.  For it is in simplicity that we become true to ourselves and to our Creator’s will for us.

After the mass, a simple agape was shared by the members of the BEC cells at Brgy.  Hipodromo with the Lay Missionary Volunteers and Katuwang ni Candida (FILE) and other volunteer faculty and staff.  The Agape was marked with a shared prayer, Bible reading, and a sharing on the life of Mother Foundress. The BEC – Hipodromo community and the faculty and staff had the chance to know and interact with each other in an informal and familial way. The families were at first very timid and shy but as the interaction progressed everyone experienced the acceptance and feeling of belongingness.

Ms. Joena Esteves a lay missionary volunteer, gave a session on the life of Mother to the construction workers and maintenance personnel of CHJ. She focused on the virtues of Mother Foundress that would inspire them to do their work with sense of dignity and pride. Together with the sisters they shared lunch together which was offered by the school for free. They were happy and grateful for the human-spiritual formation they received that day from the school.