...“So, if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet...”

John 13:14

Rosary Hour

Mass at Mother Ignacia Shrine in Intramuros

REGIONAL CHRISTMAS BONDINGDecember 12-13, 2011

Year BeginningRegional Assembly

June 9, 2011

349TH Baptismal Anniversary ofMother Ignacia Del Espiritu Santo

Chapter EducationJuly 7-9, 2011

Year BeginningRegional Assembly

June 9, 2011

Luzon Region Communities greet Mother General

S. Maria Andrea L. Yee, RVM

Message

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Peace to all!

This Season of Grace calls us to willingly live out the disciplines of prayer, fasting and almsgiving throughout our life. A constant call to develop in us a posture of prayerfulness, abstention and charity to those who are in need.

In the Lenten message of the Holy Father, he “proposed a few thoughts in the light of a brief biblical passage from the letter to the Hebrews; Let us be concerned for each other, to stir response in love and good works.” To be concerned is to be attentive and sensitive to the needs of others and “not to remain isolated and indifferent”. This is only possible if we are able to direct our focus on the needs outside of us instead of focusing on our personal needs and interests.

At the center of the Holy Father’s Lenten message is a call to be involved in the lives of our brothers and sisters… “we are our neighbours’ keeper.” “The great commandment of love for one another demands that we acknowledge our responsibility towards those who, like ourselves, are creatures and children of God. Even today God asks us to be “guardians” of our brothers and sisters (Gen 4:9), to establish relationships based on mutual consideration and attentiveness to the integral well-being of others. Being brothers and sisters in the faith, should help us recognize in others a true alter ego, infinitely loved by the Lord. If we cultivate this way of seeing others as our brothers and sisters, solidarity, justice, mercy and compassion will naturally well up in our hearts”(Lenten message of His Holiness 2012).

Mother Ignacia, as she responded to the call to form a community “considered not only herself, her needs and interests, she looked into the needs and interests of her fellow beatas. And instead of simply safeguarding the boundaries of their community life, Mother Ignacia saw that their contact with outsiders could be a means of teaching about God and their faith ” (adapted from “A Lamp to our Path” by S. Ma. Anicia Co, RVM) and so they responded to the call to ministry – responding to the needs of the people of their time.We too, are called to respond in the same way to our sisters in our communities and to the people of our own time. To respond to their needs not in grand but in simple ways as offering a hand, a listening ear and heart, among other things.

We have been so blessed as individuals, as communities, as a congregation and as a nation, in spite of the many adversities that beset us because of God’s mercy and love. As in the Paschal Journey, we culminate with the Resurrection of our Lord / with Easter, so it is with our own life journey, thus, we continue to hope. We take this quiet time to look back to the blessed year past and the year ahead with much faith and trust in our Lord Jesus.

My sincere thanks to you dear Sisters and most of all to God our Father for His constant guidance and love for all of us. Wishing you a Blessed Lenten Journey and a joyous Easter celebration. God bless and keep us all.

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W e put new freshness and vigor to our reformulated Congregational Vision-Mission, as we did in most

of the different areas. You will find meaningful changes in the Key Directions and Performance Indicators. Just as the Capitulars sought continuity of our performances in the past five years (2006-2011), we also found new ways of expressing our spirituality and building on our gifts and passion for God and His Church.

It is now our privileged responsibility to give an account to the Congregation’s membership of what transpired in the last Chapter, in the form of the Chapter Documents, a tangible fruit of our discernment and your prayers. These mandates are to give focus and direction for the next five years in all levels and areas of our Congregation.

Our recent General Chapter was not simply a time of assessing our life and mission, or only a period for setting directions for the continuing renewal and adaptation of our Congregation. The historic event was a call to communal prayer and discernment. We were given the opportunity to experience being His humble servants and subsequently trust Him at all times in all our deliberations and discussions. We went through a process, to recognize what God wants of us and our Congregation, in our response to the challenges in today’s world.

In faith, we believe that the Holy Spirit will make our every step possible. We believe that the Holy Spirit will create new possibilities and direct us as we face new challenges in our period of transition. In whatever situation we find ourselves, let us be joyful, creative and vibrant.

Let us make God the center of these Documents, in the same manner, that we make Him the center of our lives. Let us move forward from who we were to where we wish to go in the next five years. Let us ask the Lord to pour upon us the gifts of His Spirit so that we, as individuals and as a congregation, may have new life in all its abundance.

Excerpt from the Inspirational Message delivered by M. Maria Evelyn C. Aguilar, RVM on the occasion of the Luzon Region’s

Post-General Chapter Education on July 8, 2011 at the RVM Regional House, Singalong, Manila

P anginoong Hesukristo, Ikaw ang aking tanging gabay at tagapagligtas. Narito ako. Ang

pagtanggap ko ng bagong misyon bilang Iyong lingkod ay kasabay ng pag-aalay ko ng aking puso, pag-iisip at ang aking buong kalakasan. Pakahawakan Mo ako, pakatibayin at pakalakasin. Manatili nawa ako sa tibay ng pananampalataya at ng wagas na pagmamahal sa komunidad na ipinagkatiwala Mo sa akin. Nananalig ako na sa Iyong presensya ay hindi ako maakit ng pagkakasala, na magiging matatag ako sa bawat pagsubok na darating, na ang aking kahinaan ay mapangibabawan ng lakas na magmumula sa Iyo. O Panginoon, turuan Mo akong maging matapat sa Iyo at maging karapatdapat kasama ng aking komunidad sa kaharian ng Ama sa langit. Siya nawa.

S. Ma. Salvacion R. Borjal, RVM

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Praying Servant-Leaders

L oving Father, thank you very much for calling us to live together in this community.

Enlighten our minds, purify our hearts and bless our hands and feet and make them your own channel that what you plan and envision for this community and ministry will be realized . Form us in your wisdom and goodness that we may always seek and do your will at all times and in all places. Make us meek and humble of heart Like Mother Ignacia del Espiritu Santo and Our Blessed Mother and teach us to live for Others so that we may be able to live for you. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

S. Ma. Irenea Abang, RVM

L ord Jesus Christ, grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may aspire only the things

that are good and holy. Give me the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Your divine truth, the Spirit of Counsel that I choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining heaven, the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with You. Grant me the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and myself to therefore grow perfect in the science of the Saints, the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable, and the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God. Mark me, dear Lord with the sign of true discipleship and animate me in all things with Your Spirit. Amen. (adapted: Prayer for the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit)

S. Ma. Ninfa Gemang, RVM

O Mary, do keep me under the mantle of your protection as I take on the responsibility of servingz in the region of Luzon. Be

my constant guide and inspiration that I may share freely and generously with each of my Sisters the compassionate love and mercy of God, our Father.

May we live as a true Marian family…may we support one another in the various ministries in our jurisdiction, dedicate ourselves humbly and joyfully to the mission Our Risen Lord has entrusted to us, and proclaim faithfully the Gospel of life with honesty and love to the people of our time. Amen.

S. Ma. Andrea L. Yee, RVM

S a pagmamahal, naroroon ang Diyos...Lord God, here I am, your servant-friend.May I be your gift of love to the community

whom you entrusted to me.I pray for the special graces of simplicity and

authenticity...that they may come to know You more --Your gentle care in my presence,Your compassion in my reaching out,and Your joy in my natural humor.ALL to be done in the Love I have for You.May I be the vibrant servant-friend drawing

courage from Your faithful love,embracing the Cross of Your Son Jesus,grateful to be forgiven, generous to likewise forgiveopen for renewal, constant in thanksgivinglike Our Lady, like Mother Ignacia. Amen.

S. Ma. Helen Soliven, RVM

L oving Father, create a new spirit of humble Marian-Ignacian servant hood in me that deepened through my observance of Lent experiencing the desert,

I may be renewed and vibrantly be of loving service to others not only in the apostolate I am engaged in but reach out to the least, the less and the lost. Lord, You alone can help me build my quality life in You from my brokenness and infirmities for You are a loving, caring and forgiving God Who makes the crooked straight that brought salvation to the world. Bless our congregation and membership that we bond together in prayer living out our commitment for the cause of our Mother Foundress, Mother Ignacia del Espiritu Santo. With Mary and Mother Ignacia, I ask all these graces through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

S. Ma. Celestina Viernes, RVM

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Ivy Grace C. Lim, an alumna of St. Mary’s Academy of Caloocan City Batch 2007, ranked third in the recently conducted Nursing Licensure Examination last July

2011. She is included in the list of SMACC alumni who successfully topped professional board examinations.

Marians in Pasay are making waves! They are making a splash through the Special Program for the Arts (SPA). It has been three years

that the Grade School Department offers the SPA and this school year, it has invaded the GSIS Museum of Art for its recital on October 15, 2011.

The SPA offerings include Visual Arts, Voice Lesson, Photography, Guitar Lesson and Beatbox/ Drums/ Percussion. The voice lesson group presented song numbers while the guitar group and beatbox group showcased their talent in playing the guitar and beatbox. The visual arts group and photography group had their exhibits that showed the basics skills learned in visual arts and photography.

On October 27, the SMA-P Children’s Choir, beatbox and guitar group together with the GSIS chorale had their concert at the GSIS museum. It was attended by the RVM sisters, teachers and family members of the Marians. The program was made possible through the concerted effort of the MAPE area headed by Mr. Orlando P. Abon, the master of the Young Masters.

SMA-P Special Program for the Arts invades GSIS Museum of Art

Alumna tops Nursing Board

SMA-P HS PAASCU Level III

Accreditation;GS retains Level III

re-accredited status

S t. Mary’s Academy of Pasay High

School was granted Level III accredited status on April 2011

while the Grade School maintains its level III re-

accredited status since it was first conferred in 2009. It is the

first school in Pasay City and among RVM schools in Luzon region to

receive the status under the leadership of S. Marissa R. Viri, RVM as Directress. It is the highest level given for basic education programs by the Federation of Accrediting Agencies of the Philippines (FAAP) through the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU).

The Level III accredited and re-accredited status grants St. Mary’s Academy of Pasay “Full administrative, curricular, and financial deregulation in terms of setting tuition and other school fees and charges, including the authority to innovate without need for prior approval provided that the concerned DepED Regional Office is duly informed”, “Limited visitation, inspection and / or supervision by DepEd supervisory personnel or representatives for the duration of its Level III accredited status” and the “Privilege to apply for authority to open learning / distance education, extension classes and to participate in the transnational education.”

The Level III status recognizes that St. Marys’ Academy – Pasay Grade School and High School have a reasonably high standard of instruction and a well -developed mechanism for improving and upgrading its own curriculum. It acknowledges the creditable performance of SMA-P teachers that promote effectiveness of teaching and learning as well as the strong faculty and staff development tradition. It also recognizes the high level of achievement and performance of students in both academic and co-curricular activities and the highly visible community outreach program of the School.

SMA-P became eligible to apply for Level III status after the Grade School was granted clean re-accreditation by PAASCU on November 2005 and the High School on November 2009. The Level III status is valid until 2015 and 2016 respectively.

X Marian Achievers: True to RVM Tradition of Excellence Y

SMA Sta Ana shines in interschool brain & art

competitions

The Marian leaders of St. Mary’s Academy, Sta. Ana continuously receive awards and recognition for their participation in interschool competitions.

This is a strong indication of instructional vigor of the institution. Recently, the school as represented by John Carlo Tan, Rendcel Isip and Kate Louis Matriano bested about 40 schools as it was adjudged first place in the CHR: Mind Game held at the University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City. Vren Protacio, a Grade V pupil, won first place in the poster-making category of Try Prayer! It Works! 2011 Contest. The other performing students are Princess Nicole Castañeda, Danella Cassandra Alvarez, and Shannen Mae Avelino who took the 4th place in the IT Artist Contest sponsored by Manila Tytana College.

As the institution looks forward to the coming school year, its optimism becomes greater, paving the way for a bigger leap, encouraging forward march… Mabuhay!

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Marians get awards in Sports Tilt

Two Grade School pupils of St. Mary’s Academy of Caloocan City bagged awards in the 2011 MILO Little Olympics held in two venues namely Rizal Stadium, Manila and Marikina

Sports Complex last August 13, 14, 20 and 21, 2011.Arthur Florence Jean Apostol of Grade 6 – Our Lady of

Immaculate Conception won Gold Medal and Silver Medal in the Taekwondo Competition conducted at the Rizal Stadium in Manila last August 14. He will represent the National Capital Region in the National Level on November 18, 19 and 20, 2011 in Lingayen, Pangasinan.

In the swimming competition held at the Marikina Sports Complex last August 13 and 14, Erika Maureen Flamiano of Grade 6 – Our Lady of Immaculate Conception won three bronze medals in the 50 M Butterfly, 50 M Backstroke and 100 M Backstroke events.

Truly, the feat achieved by the two Marians serves as an inspiration of the school to further strive to reap awards in all forms of competition.

Way to go Marians! We are proud of you!

GS NICOLASIANS Champion “Panagyaman”

Dance Festival

Select pupils of the diocesan school San Nicolas Academy bagged the championship in the Creative Native Dance competition in the town fiesta “Panagyaman” (Thanksgiving)

Festival of Balaoan, La Union celebrated last December 20, 2011. The said competition was participated in by 18 contingents

in the different elementary schools in Balaoan, both both public and private. The Nicolasians performed best in the choreography mastered with discipline and elegance in their execution that earned the unanimous decision of the board of judges. The little champions were trained under the field demo expertise of SNA alumnus Nicolas “Nikki” Ordinario.

Once again, the SNA family was very happy and proud for this victory. This again proved that the Nicolasians are gifted in showcasing their talents and skills with love, with joy and with excellence as they lived their Nicolasian tagline, “Nicolasian ako, iba ako; iba ako, Nicolasian ako!”

 

Kiddie chefs in Hagonoy master Pasay Kitchen Battle

In celebration of Nutrition month, five RVM schools from Baliuag, Meycauayan, Pasay, Sto. Niňo, and Hagonoy participated in the

Second Inter- RVM Kitchen Battle entitled “Pasay Kitchen Battle last july 29, 2011. It was held at the Home Economics Laboratory of St. Mary’s Academy of Pasay. The participants from the five schools competed in different categories: Main Dish, Soup, Chicken Sandwich, Dessert and Fruits and Beverage.

The five little Hagonoy Marian chefs, together with teachers, Mrs. Mary Jane Gonzales, TLE coordinator and Home Arts Club moderator, Mrs. Susan Bautista, Young Homemakers’ Club moderator and Sister Ma. Arianne Rebato, RVM, went to SMA Pasay to compete in the Kitchen Battle.

Everyone did well and has shown their best from the preparation to cooking time until the table setting and showcasing of their own recipes.

The four Marians won in Pasay Kitchen Battle. They were Eunice Panaligan (1st – Main Dish Category, Saba con Carne with Malunggay Leaves who was also awarded the highest honor of the Most Promising Chef), Luc Sampana (2nd – Soup Category, Mushroom Soup), Nicole Faustino (3rd – Chicken Sandwich), and Aerole Gonzales (3rd – Fruits and Beverage Category). Nimue Santos also participated in the Kitchen Battle (Dessert Category, Avocado Crepe with Honey Syrup).

SMAH also won as 1st placer in the Table Setting Arrangement arranged by the supportive coaches.

The said event was conducted to showcase the culinary skill of each participant. This cooking competition brought out the best in each of the pupils when it comes to cooking; it also developed their creativity and teamwork.

X Marian Achievers: True to RVM Tradition of Excellence Y

X Welcome to the Family Y

T he school year is blessed with the opening of new mission in the north, a revival of the mission in Ilocandia

more than 15 years past. Rev. M. Maria Evelyn C. Aguilar, RVM received with optimism the opportunity of reaching out to San Nicolas Academy, the oldest Catholic diocesan school (founded 1961) and to the indigenous community of Balaoan, La Union and its nearby towns, to extend the love of the Father through wholistic Christian Education in the spirit of Venerable Ignacia del Espiritu Santo. The invitation was extended by the late Most Rev. Artemio L. Rillera, SVD, D.D., Archbishop of the Diocese of San Fernando.

S. Maria Helen Soliven, S. Maria Regina Butic and S. Maria Purificacion Salosagcol make up the religious community. The Sisters are one in expressing their gratitude and pure joy of being

RVM Sisters join in the Catholic Diocesan Schools of La Union

TRIV

IA

SEPTEMBER 10 IS TWIN HOLY DAY

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What a beautiful coincidence for a twin feast celebration at San Nicolas Academy, Balaoan every September 10 of the year! It is the feast of St. Nicholas of Tolentino, the Parish Patron Saint and likewise the Death Anniversary of the RVM Foundress, the Venerable Ignacia del Espiritu Santo.

St. Nicholas is known as the Patron Saint of the Souls in Purgatory. During his life, Nicholas received visions, including images of Purgatory, which friends ascribed to his lengthy fasts. He had a great devotion to the recently dead, praying for the souls in purgatory as he traveled around his parish, often late into the night. Once, when very ill, he received a vision of Blessed Virgin Mary and Saints Augustine and Monica who told him to eat a certain type of bread roll that had been dipped in water. Upon doing so he was immediately cured. He started distributing these rolls to the ailing, while praying to Mary, often curing the sufferers; the rolls became known as Saint Nicholas Bread and are still distributed and received as special and blessed gift by the Parishioners in the community during its Patronal Fiesta. Venerable Ignacia, on the other hand, continues to work miracles in the lives of those stricken with illnesses, burdened with tribulations, suffering in traumas and ordeals of the world, keeping up her humble servanthood and loving charity towards her neighbors.

The province of La Union was adjudged anew as the cleanest, safest and greenest place of Region 1 in 2011 defeating for the third time the provinces of Pangasinan, Ilocos Sur, and Ilocos Norte. It has maintained its outstanding programs and projects on cleanliness, waste management, sanitation and peace and order. One of its known trademark is the exceptional color-coding for the tricycles. In Bauang area the trics are all blue; farther north at San Fernando City they are white; and still farther north at San Juan they are red; at Bacnotan they are orange, in Luna, they are blue while at Balaoan they are a bright pink. The tricycles have two seats – one forward facing and the other rearward facing.

PINK TRICS IN THE CLEANEST PROVINCE OF THE NORTH!

sent to the place as they encounter Christ in the authenticity of the people as well as in the simplicity of rural living, the Ilocano way. All of them are adept in Ilocano, the dominant language spoken in the region.

cont. on p. 19

X Sa paglilingkod, may saya sa puso ko... Mother Ignacia lives on Y

The Mother Foundress, Venerable Ignacia del Espiritu Santo has been very influential in the lives of the alumni and the whole school

community that life long learning of her charism of service and the core values of faith, service and excellence manifest in the day to day lives of the people we cater and catered. And so to put into life this exemplary life of our Foundress, St. Mary’s College of Meycauayan with the leadership of the Center for Spirituality and Social Concern Coordinator, S. Ma. Arianne Rebato, RVM and the Community Extension Services Coordinator, Ms. Ella Panen came up with a well thought off innovation: the twin activity of a 9-Day Novena with a 9-Day outreach to different institutions in Bulacan and Pampanga. Representatives of the different clubs, faculty, non-teaching and Sisters were assigned to visit a particular institution of the poor. Short programs showcasing the talents and the skills of the visiting group were prepared for the beneficiaries and snacks were provided. Getting-along and knowing each other activities were also prepared so that the visiting group will learn from the realities of the beneficiaries and the God that they worship and praise. Our Mother Foundress is also introduced through story-telling and faiths haring of the visiting group.

The Sisters together with the MIDES scholars, on the other hand, visited their Aeta brothers and sisters at Porac, Pampanga. This was the best opportunity for them to introduce the life and works of Venerable Ignacia del Espiritu Santo thus propagating Mother Foundress not only to the local community but to other people from different walks of life.

Mother Ignacia during her time helped the poor most especially the women and children. Living in her spirituality of humble servanthood, we believe that our school community extended meaningfully her legacy through the said activities.

SMCM nears the 100th anniversary of its foundation and this early she starts to draft the dream that will culminate in 2016. A century of generous and sincere service to the Church, to the community and to the people who have been within the realm of the vision and mission of the school.

The institution has been serving the City of Meycauayan for nine decades now. The school has been commended by the different sectors of the society for its fruitful holistic formation of the youth and it contribution to the society. This is very evident with its fruits: Honorable Bishop DeoGracias Inuiguez, Rev. Fathers Ireneo Empay, Rolando Ang, Rev. Fr. Faustino Martin, CM, Rev. Fr. Laurence Cortez of St. Patrick’s Cathedral (Diocese of Melbourne, Australia), Engr. Zacarias del Rosario, President of the Alumni Association, Engr. Roderick Marcelino, the President of the Family Council as our Alumni to name a few.

MIDES Faithin Action

There’s a Hero. . .

Do you remember how destructive typhoon “Pedring” was most especially in the province of Bulacan? Kalumpit was literally submerged. The

2-story houses were like small islands in the middle of the sea with only the roof visible. People had to stay on the roof, waited for the rescue, and prayed the rosary to be saved. I was there, wondering how powerful nature could be that human power nor could technology equal hers.

It was my first time to see Kalumpit, Bulacan. Lo and behold the river occupied the residential area and had literally eaten the whole place. The water rose from 5 to 6 feet. People were swimming, bringing anything they could save when they left their houses. Some were crying, some were just looking at the site with eyes fixed at destruction made by the power of nature. The rescuers were busy geared to save lives and the media was ready to capture it.

As soon as we arrived home, we started a drive for old clothes and relief goods for the victims of typhoon “Pedring” in school. Many students, parents, personnel, even school bus drivers responded to the call. These are our unsung heroes, generous people who were ready to help. We were gathered thirty sacks of clothes, canned goods and other relief goods for the victims. We brought them in the Social Action Service of the Diocese which is headed by Rev. Fr. Dennis Espejo, also the Parish Priest of St. James the Apostle Parish at Poblacion, Plaridel, Bulacan.

The day after we witnessed the destruction of Kalumpit, M. Ma. Clarita Balleque, RVM received a text from our Sisters in Hagonoy, Bulacan. Little did we know that the typhoon also hit Hagony. St. Mary’s Academy of Hagonoy, our school, was also flooded. The water was so high that the Sisters together with the families who stayed with them in the second floor for several days were stranded. They were in need of potable water that SMCM community decided to go there and bring other necessities. I went with them hoping to see the Sisters in Hagonoy. When we reached Paombong, we were not advised to proceed because the water rose as high as the 2-story houses. The roads were not passable unless we take a 6X6 truck and climb on it. With this advice, our “boys” four of them were determined to continue. Nothing stopped them from bringing the things we brought for our community in Hagonoy. With them were four big styropore which were used to protect the newly

bought refrigerator for the HRM Mini-Hotel. The boys tied all the things we brought for the community and with a big “batsa” or basin they travelled going to Hagonoy walking and swimming. M. Claire and I stayed in Paombong waiting for a 6X6 truck for we already decided to ride by it to reach the Sisters community. Thirty minutes passed, there were no trucks. Another thirty minutes and there were still no trucks Those in charge in the evacuation assured us that military trucks would come to bring relief and they were the only trucks that could safely bring us to our destination. Another 30 minutes passed,

8cont. on p. 19

X Sa paglilingkod, may saya sa puso ko... Mother Ignacia lives on Y

Mother Ignacia del Espiritu Santo Scholars of St. Mary’s College of Meycauayan shared their blessings to 20 street children from Meycauayan. By enjoying a “Caroling for

a Cause” activity for five days and gathering an amount of money just enough to give assistance to the victims of typhoon “Sendong” in Cagayan and giving a treat to the street children, the outreach was meaningfully realized.

The children didn’t expect that they will be shopping in the SMCM Gym. When we reached the school they said,” Sister and laki ng bahay nyo!” (Sister your house is big!) and they ran until we got tired running after them. Then when we were all tired from running we asked them to choose from the extra old clothes washed and ironed by the scholars. They were all displayed in the gym. We arranged the clothes in the same way they are sold in the mall. We wanted them to feel that they were special. We couldn’t forget the faces of the children while they looked at the displayed clothes. They were all happy carefully and freely choosing their old new clothes. With the two Indonesian Sisters (S. Ma. Hermina Weling and S. Maria Goretti), we bathe them and let them wore the clothes they chose. They looked very handsome and beautiful. They smelled good and they were huggable. We gave them slippers, all blue, for them to remember St. Mary’s and viola…they became different persons. They always embraced their ate and kuya (the scholars) and even smelled them. One always hid himself inside the T-shirt of Kuya Edward, one of the scholars. When asked why he was doing it, he just simply said, “Ang bango bango ni Kuya. Meron pa lang mabango.”

Others freely shared their stories to their ate and asked to pray for them. The activity did not end there, a short program including parlor games were prepared for the children. When they got tired, chicken joy and spaghetti from Jolibee were served. The children were enjoying eating but all of them did not finish their food. Why? Most of them explained, “Para po sa nanay ko at sa mga kapatid ko para makatikim din sila.” (For my mother and siblings so that they can also taste Jolibee.)

“And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.” Matthew 18:2-6

We saw Christ that day. We saw Christ in the eyes of the children. We met Christ through the children. We lived with Him for a while through the children. We saw the realities of life through them and the living Christ, himself. No wonder Jesus told the disciples to bring the children to Him. No wonder He loves the poor so much. Why? Sometimes there are things that cannot be explained but can only be felt. Sometimes there are things that can’t be answered by knowledge we learned from the classroom but from the experiences we have with others. Sometimes there are no explanations but acceptance of God’s grace.

We saw Christ that day. We knew it was Christ we met. We knew Jesus revealed himself to us and we knew it was a blessing, for Anawims are blessings.

A day with the Anawim Compassionate Heart…“If there is a poor man among your brothers in any

of the towns of the land that the LORD your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother. There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land.”

Deuteronomy 15:7, 11

St. Mary’s College of Meycauayan has been blessed with so many graces. In its 96th year, marking time for the centennial year, she has shown

once more her compassionate side in extending heart and hands to our poor brothers and sisters in Bulacan. The office of the Community Extension Services is given opportunity by God to be its hands. In its second year of 9-Day Novena Out-reach which is a novena coupled by 9-day outreach to different institutions and community, SMCM once again extended her hands. The selected grade school students visited and had a gift-giving at Tahanang Mapagpala in Guiguinto on its first day, Selected high school students visited and gave gifts to the patients at St. John of God Hospice for Women, the following day to Galilee Homes. Thereafter, another group in grade school visited and gave gifts to the pre-schoolers of the Dumagat Learn ing Center. The MIDES scholars visited and had an acquaintance activity with the scholars in Damascus Foundation. On its sixth day, the Alumni officers and the MIM prepared gifts and visited the Aeta pre-schoolers at Katutubo Center in Pampanga. Through the leadership of Engineer Roderick Marcelino, the Family Council President and the assistance of Congresswoman Lina Villarica and Mayor Joan Alarilla a Medical-Dental Mission was conducted at Northville 3, Bayugo, Meycauayan on the seventh day. Three hundred beneficiaries were given free medical and dental assistance. The Sisters assigned at SMCM also participated in the outreach by visiting and giving gifts to the children at Tahan Tahanan at East Avenue Medical Center. They are children diagnosed with cancer. Lastly, the maintenance together with the canteen personnel had their share of outreach to the children at Nazareth Homes. They had acquaintance activities and gave gifts to the children. The culminating activity in the 9-day outreach was the institutional mass celebrated in September 10, 2011.

SMCM believes that in everything that was done and is being done for the poor are opportunities to help, heal, and live in solidarity with the poor. Mother Ignacia del Espiritu Santo inspired us to take the road she once had when she helped the poor children and women during their time. Now, it is our invitation and our opportunity to join her in that same path: the path of charity, compassion, and love for the poor.

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AWRAM Christmas get togetherwith Archbishop Chito Tagle

December 2011

AWRAM renewal of vowsat Concordia College Chapel

February 26, 2012

Vocation Talk at Parish Sunday Masses

Acquaintance Party Mother Ignacia Ladies’ Dormitory

June 26, 2011

Committee meeting for the Curriculum and schedules for Grades 1 and 7

March 16, 2012

Bonding with MILD borders and personnelSeptember 10, 2011

RVM School Management & Curriculum Audit Training

March 9 & 10, 2012

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Vocation Talk at Parish Sunday Masses

Vocation Festival Dioces of Imus Rogationist College, Tagaytay

November 2011

Directors of Vocation in the Philippines(DVP) Seminars

Life Direction Seminars

Singles’ for Christ Metro Manila Conference

July 15-17, 2011Dagupan City

F or almost a decade, St. Mary’s Academy of Sto. Niño under the program of Community Involvement Program (CIP) is giving assistance to Pajo community. As the years go by and based on their

evaluation and assessment, it came out that there is a need for education among the unfortunate children belonging to families who are financially unstable. This needs gives the school an opportunity to continue Mother Ignacia Del Espiritu Santo’s legacy of serving the poor and to participate in some of the various Religious of the Virgin Mary (RVM) Apostolates such as education, pastoral and social ministry.

In the year 2010, the Community Extension Service put up a school in Pajo and named it as Munting Paaralan ni Madre Ignacia (MPMI). Thru the support of the Mother Ignacia Movement (MIM) President, Mrs. Tess de Guzman, a classroom was provided for the children. She made use of their garage as a learning place and second home of these kids.

It was in September 21, 2010 when the Munting Paaralan ni Madre Ignacia (MPMI) formally opened. Initially, there were Kinder and eleven (11) Junior Kinder kids who seem to be little angels emanating innocence, simplicty and humility. St. Mary’s Academy of Sto. Niño provides them with free snacks through the Feeding Program sponsored by the different clubs. School supplies and school uniform were also gien by the officers of St. Mary’s Academy of Sto. Niño Parent’s Organization (SMASN-PO). There’s no idle time for the parents of those kinder pupils because as they wait for their kids, they engage themselves in the livelihood program which is curtain-making. They make use of different junk food wrappers such as chippy, Nova, etc.

At present, there are already seven (7) Senior Kinder and eleven (11) Junior Kinder enrolled in the Munting Paaralan ni Madre Ignacia (MPMI). Thus, the CIP in its aim to continuously serve and give witness to Mother Ignacia’s legacy of humble servanthood also caters to spiritual, social and health services to its adopted barangay. These programs and services include:

• Annualmedical,opticalanddentalcheck-up• Free Baptism held every March 4• Christmas Sharing / Giving and• Regular attendance of MIM Parents during First Friday Masses and

special celebrations.Indeed, Mother Ignacia’s

spirit lives in gradually giving way to small dreams and continuously strengthening great hopes. Now on its second year of operation under Community Involvement Program (CIP), the Munting Paaralan ni Madre Ignacia (MPMI) is now a reality. Blessings and graces outpours from different people especially the students, parents, teachers and alumni of St. Mary’s Academy of Sto. Niño.

Small Dreams... Big Hope... by the little angels at

Munting Paaralan ni Madre Ignacia sa Pajo

Salamat sa Liwanag mo

Madre Ignacia(Isang kasapi ng MIM sa Pajo)

Mula sa isang madilim at masalimuot

na pamumuhay sa aming munting tahanan, na pulos pag-aaway at hindi pagkakaintindihan. Minsan, naghahanap ako kung sino ang dapat sisihin. Ako ba na isang ina na hindi naman siguro nagkulang ng paalala at pag-aaruga sa aking asawa at mga anak. Ang aking asawa ay isang construction worker, at ang aking mga anak ay nag-aaral sa pampublikong paaralan. Hindi ko alam kung bakit konting bagay ay pinagkakagalitan namin, gaya ng paglilinis ng bahay, paghuhugas ng kasangkapan, pag-igib ng tubig ng tipikal na dahilan na dapat ako ang gumagawa.

Salamat na lang sa isa naming kapitbahay na isang miyembro ng Madre Ignacia Movement sa aming lugar. Hinikayat ako na sumapi sa samahang iyon, bantulot at may agam-agam pa sa aking pag-iisip kung ako nga ay sasapi sa MIM. May kaunting kaalaman na ako tungkol sa MIM, kaya siguro ayokong sumapi sa kanila at isa pa sagabal iyon sa aking pagbibingo tuwing araw ng linggo na isa sa mga dahilan ang aming pag-aaway ng aking asawa.

Dahil siguro sa kakulitan ng aking kapitbahay ay napapayag niya akong sumapi sa MIM, kung kaya’t napapayag niya akong maging kaisa nila. Noong una medyo nahihiya ako at ayaw makiisa sa kanilang gawain. Subalit sabi nga ng kasapi lahat naman daw ng pag-uusap ay hindi makakalabas.

At dito ko na unti-unting nakilalal si Mother Ignacia del Espiritu Santo, ang kanyang gawain, pamumuhay at higit sa lahat kung paano siya nananalig sa Panginoon na siyang nagbigay liwanag sa aking buhay at pagiging malapit sa Diyos.

Sa ngayon na halos dalawang taon na akong kasapi ng MIM na isa sa isinusulong ay pagbibiyatipika kay Madre Ignacia del Espiritu Santo at pinagpapatuloy namin ang gawain tuwing ikalawa at huling linggo ng buwan ng pag-aaral sa buhay ni Madre Ignacia at pagbabasa sa Banal na aklat at maging sa bahay namin ay dinadasal ang Dasal sa pagbiyatipikasyon ni Madre Ignacia del Espiritu Santo.

“Let the Children come to me.” (Mathhew 19:14)

X Sa paglilingkod, may saya sa puso ko... Mother Ignacia lives on Y

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RVM Schools Ignite

1st Campus Journalism TrainingT welve RVM Schools in the

jurisdiction of Luzon gathered some 156 budding Marian writers in

the Campus Journalism Seminar held at the Excellence Hall of St. Mary’s Academy of Caloocan City on August 10-11, 2011.

The seminar which was initially conceived for the SMACC “Envoy” schoolpaper editors alone paved the way not only for journalistic skills training but also enhanced fellowship among Marians in the region, particularly those involved in school publications.

Continuous training for student writers is highly felt, hence the seminar was conceived in response to the mandate of Republic Act 7079 or the Journalism Act of 1991 which requires appropriate journalistic skills training for those who manage school publications.

The speaker, Mr. Ruben Velarde, Jr. one of the country’s Most Outstanding Journalism Trainor and a Masters graduate of Journalism from Ateneo de Manila remarked in his talk “The fire has been ignited and from this beginning will bring forth the brightest and most responsible journalists from the RVM school community. “

No less than the RVM School Superintendent of Luzon, S. Maria Paula Adaoag, RVM is the steering force behind the success of the first campus journalism training in the region and with her leadership and support – a follow-up training and organization of the schoolpaper journalists soon awaits everyone.

When properly organized and its people equipped with journalistic skills, RVM campus publications become fertile training grounds for future writers who can contribute much to the development of the society bringing people closer to the truth and God, the Almighty.

1st SMAPA Fun Run:

Get Fit for a Cause

T The St. Mary’s Academy of Pasay Parents Auxiliary

(SMAPA) held a very successful and fun filled 1st Family Fun Run at the PICC grounds last December 3, 2011. The SMA-P Fun Run for a Cause aptly themed, “Takbo para sa Iskolar ng Marian,” featured 1K (for Kinder-G3), 3K (G4-H4) and 5K (Open Race) lapses. This milestone event in the history of SMA and SMAPA likewise highlights the importance of healthy lifestyle for the whole family. The proceeds of this event benefit the scholars of Mother Ignacia Financial Assistance Program (MISFAP).

Running together for a cause, was indeed a challenge but it was also a manifestation of support to our Marian scholars and the St. Mary’s Academy Pasay community as a whole. Congratulations to the SMAPA officers and members, headed by the incumbent President, Mrs. Eloisa Coching, for the innovation which they undertook for this year’s Family Day.

. . . is Excellence . . . is Enduring . . . is Rewarding

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1st Galileo Project in SMA-P opens in 2012 night sky

S cience Wizards and Earth Savers’ Society, in cooperation with the Philippine

Astronomical Society (PAS), conducted the first star-gazing activity in St. Mary’s Academy –Pasay held last March 2-3, 2012.

Have you ever been in a so called “Astro-Camp”? What about to an ordinary camping? If yes, do you remember the excitement you felt upon entering the school with your camping bags? You can then just begin to imagine the thrill we felt last March 2-3 as we had our share of an unforgettable star-gazing experience at the SMA-P Quadrangle. We had our very first Astro- Camp!

We arrived in school at around 6:30 pm. Our Science Acad Coor and Science teachers put us to order to start the event. Peering through the telescopes brought by the Philippine Astronomical Society (PAS), we were awed by the beauty of the moon and of the planets Jupiter, Mars and Saturn!

Engineer Camilo G. Dacanay, PAS Chair, then gave us a short talk about the wonders of the galaxies: on black holes, about the stars, the sun and the planets. He also shared with us the different theories on how the universe was formed. We, the young astronomers, were amazed with the galactic images that Engr. Dacanay painted through his talk as we mulled over the awesome possibility of life in other planets!

The overnight experience made us realize how interesting it is to relate Astronomy to all branches of Science. As members of the different Science Clubs brought together by the event, we learned to appreciate the importance of organization, discipline and teamwork. We do hope to have another Astro-Camp next school year. Thanks to our Club Moderators who put together such a memorable event. Clear Sky! Carmelita S. Reyes., SMACC

Having exercised our dynamic memory to go back to the past for the three-day Chapter Education, we become more of a people of

the present. As Fr. S. McCarthy, S.T. said, “A Religious Community can be more present today if it knows the past.” Five fruitful and grace-filled years have past and another five years is in the making. With the fruits of the 19th Ordinary General Chapter, our Sister Capitulars are clearly directed by the Holy Spirit through our Mother Foundress, Venerable Ignacia del Espiritu Santo to liik into what we were, what have become of us and where we are heading.

The history that is in the past taught us to count the gifts, graces and blessings. It clearly reveals our identity: charism of service, spirituality of humble servanthood, promoter of Ignacian Marian Education, co-journeyer of the youth, the women and the poor, advocate of stewardship, artisan of vocation, disciple of Christ in his mission, compassionate women leaders and the bride of Christ. All of these are revealed to us. All of these are our gifts. What were started by our Mother Foundress and our Lolas, our elder Sisters are all part of what we have become and what we have today. What makes them one with them is the life that we embrace and the legacy of Venerable Ignacia Del Espiritu Santo that we continue to live out.

Reflection on Chapter Education: Luzon RegionX Literary Y

by S. Ma. Marissa Ardeta, RVM

The now, the present however continue to breathe life unto us. It invites us to see its giftedness, to recognize the hope it offers and to savor the opportunities and privileges to develop and hone what was in the past. As Mother Evelyn said, “ We need to see beyond the past,” plus ultra. There is always something more beautiful in the present: new community, new ministry, new opportunities, new life. There is something more that we can be in working with God in the spirit of magis, for we believe that the Spirit is more than enough for all of us. What makes us strong and alive is not only our own giftedness, nor our capabilities and strength, but most of all the centrality of our life in our dear Jesus Christ who called each one of us to be in our ministry, to be in the same region, to be with our new community, to be together in this hall and to be with the person seated beside us. The present is here and now and it is truly a gift. With all that its goodness and blessings, it continues to challenge us. To what?… To bring life to the documents of the past, to bring life to the labour of the past. And so as we go back to our respective ministries, ask the guidance of the Holy Spirit that we may live-out the challenges of the 19th Ordinary General Chapter: that we keep the flame of Jesus Christ in our hearts and become the breather of our graced document. We encourage one another and say: “My dear sister, continue to be a vibrant keeper of the flame. Continue to be the breather of life. Our future lies in you. God bless you.”

If you’ve visited Marinduque and have not experienced the “Putong”

ritual then you have not been welcomed properly.

It’s only a small part of the island culture but with no one from any class

of society being exempt to be honored with a crown of flowers (or variations

thereof), and leis bestowed upon the individual, it acts as the great island

equalizer - all have equal shots at getting his or her crown and be showered

with love and wishes for good luck, health and prosperity.

It has been practised in the island of Marinduque - exclusively - for

over a hundred years at least Originally associated with ancient healing rituals

that involved the intercession of patron saints, it’s now held as a welcome or thanksgiving rite.

In the olden days, traditional healing meant the involvement not only of a patient’s family but

the whole community, natural ‘usiseros’. That probably made healing more effective as the

combined positive energies of family members and the old folks, identified as “mamumutong’ were

formidable forces that a sick person had to contend with.

The ritual is of course, largely spiritual in nature and thus, should be treated that way.

There are numerous versions of the “Putong” (known also as “Tubong” in some local

places) The original song-and-dance rituals used to last from 6 hours to a whole day, involving

saints and “Maria” whose names must be envoked, followed by drinking tuba, eating and

merriment, using candles, floral crowns, incense and coins as props.

The popular version today is said to have been culled - by national artist Lucresia Kasilag, with the help of some school

teachers in the early 1960s, from several versions of the Putong sung in Gasan, Boac and Mogpog.

It is one tradition that is guaranteed to inspire, uplift and enrich the Marinduque experience of any traveller.source: Internet

“Putong” Unique to Marinduque

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RVM School Management and Curriculum Audit Training

One of the Key Directions of the Education Ministry is TRANSFORMATIVE QUALITY IGNACIAN MARIAN EDUCATION (Key Direction #1). One of KD#1’s strategies is to conduct school management and curriculum audit.

T he Luzon and Generalate Areas had its two-day seminar-workshop, March 9 – 10, 2012, on School Management and Curriculum Audit under the expertise of the four seasoned Quality Management

Representatives (QMR’s) from the RVM ISO certified schools, namely: Ms. Jocelyn Licuanan of SMA Pasay, Ms. Jogina Mendiola of SMC, Meycauayan, Ms. Raquel Nacua of SMA Caloocan City and Mrs. Cecilia Temporal of SMC, Quezon City. Participants were the School President, College Deans, Principals, Christian Living Coordinators/Campus Ministers and Finance Officers of every school. They worked assiduously on the process maps for admission and curriculum review and on relevant school documents. First-hand references were the institution’s Admin-Personnel Manual, Curriculum Pacing Guide or Learning Plans and sample blank forms used by teachers and offices.

Religious and Lay Partners Collaborate

on Luzon Jurisdictional Plans

August 5 and 6, 2011 marked an important event for the Region of Luzon when ¬16 RVM Sisters and 20 lay administrators from the 12 schools in the area gathered in the Regional House in Singalong, Manila for a joint formulation of the jurisdictional Five-Year Development Plan.

Under the leadership of S. Ma. Paula Adaoag, RVM, Regional Superintendent, the participants were made to map out different programs, projects and activities that are aligned with the congregation’s Education Ministry’s Five-Year Action Plan with its theme: “Living more Vibrantly the Ignacian Humble Servanthood in Today’s World”

The participants were grouped into five and each worked on the following key directions set by the Education Ministry during the Congregation’s 18th Ordinary General Chapter:

Group 1 - Transformative quality Ignacian Marian education and constant pursuance of innovative programs, approaches, and educational strategies to develop world-class professionals

Group 2 – Enriched Curriculum thrusts on justice, peace and integrity of creation

Group 3 – Extensive networking, linkages and bonding

Group 4 – Continuous development of human and material resources

Group 5 – Greater accessibility of RVM education to the poorDay 1 was spent by each group laying out plans to be implemented from

2011 to 2016. A big group sharing, critiquing and revising/enriching were done on the second day.

The final version of the Region’s Five-Year Action Plan will be presented to the RVMEAP after which individual copies will be sent to the school administrators.

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St. Mary’s Academy of Sta. Ana

Sta. Ana is known as “Namayan” before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors. It was a Muslim kingdom

encompassing parts of what is now Mandaluyong, Makati, Pasay and Pandacan and Paco districts of Manila.

The Franciscan missionaries were awarded the area by the Spanish colonizers. They were the first to establish a

mission beyond the walls of Intramuros in 1578.

When the first Catholic missionaries asked the natives the name of the area, they pointed to the banks of the Pasig

River. Consequently, the locals thinking that the foreigners were referring to the terrain responded with “sapa” or the

Tagalog word for marshes. Henceforth, the Franciscan missionaries dedicated the district to Saint Anne, the mother of

the Blessed Virgin Mary, and called it, Santa Ana de Sapa, or “Saint Anne of the Marshes”.

The church as it stands today was first built in 1720 and is known as the National Shrine of Our Lady of the

Abandoned (Nuestra Senora de los Desamparados). The old convent of the church was the birthplace of St. Mary’s

Academy of Sta. Ana.The small school when it was still located at the old convent of the church evolved as Escuela Catolica de Sta. Ana

(Sta. Ana Catholic School.)It was set up by two sisters, S. Ma. Salome Castro, RVM and S. Ma. Zosima Zapanta, RVM

in 1911. In 1920, the school gained government recognition and the growth of the school continued until it was forcibly

closed because of the Second World War. In 1942, however, the Japanese invaders allowed its reopening. in 1945, it

held its first commencement exercises.

In 1950’s the school transferred to its present location at Pedro Gil St (Herran St.). The school adopted the name,

Sta. Ana Academy then later to St. Ann Academy.

It was not an easy growth for the school because it was challenged during the Martial Law years, however, due to

the initiative of the late Cardinal Sin, the school continued to exist and serve the community. After this challenge, there

was no turning back to the growth of the school initiated by its RVM Administrators and the whole school community.

It was on March 27, 1999 that the school adopted the name “St. Mary’s Academy.”

P eople who grew up in the provinces especially in areas where majority of residents are Catholic would fondly remember the beautiful tradition of the block rosary. It is a Catholic devotion where the image of the Blessed Mother visits from house to house in a particular

barangay. Sadly, this beautiful practice has stopped in many places all over the country.In St. Mary’s Academy of Caloocan City, we

have successfully revived this devotion to Our Lady and her Rosary. School Year 2010-2011 saw the birth of this devotion in SMACC campus. The Campus Ministry Office initiated this movement and it was approved by the school directress, S. Ma. Andrea L. Yee, RVM. The tradition continues...

As a Catholic Ignacian Marian school, we believe that praying the Rosary as a community is one of the most powerful tools to deepen the faith of our students. We believe that students should not pray the Rosary only in October. If the whole SMACC community could not daily pray the Rosary all year round, at least one section each from the High School and the Grade School would pray for the intentions of the whole SMACC family.

The Campus Ministry Office rediscovered a wonderful Filipino tradition where it can help in evangelizing the youth by emphasizing on the stirring spirit of community and fostering the love of neighbour. Today, the Classroom Block Rosary is very much alive in our school. Our students look forward to the visit of the image of the Blessed Mother to their homeroom.

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SMACC: Keeping A Beautiful Tradition Alive

Mr. Antonio V. Ortiz, Jr., SMACC

X Health and environmental protection Y

No to Styro and Plastic Campaign: SMAH’s Way

of Apology to EcologyAllan M. Eddison once said that “Modern technology owes

ecology an apology.” According to him, modern technology and its products should be blamed as the root of man’s

ecological problems: thus, it must “owe an apology” to it. And as part of SMAH’s own apology to Mother Nature, the school finally joined other RVM schools in promoting the “No to Styro and Plastic Campaign” in the opening of the school year 2011 – 2012.

The implementation of this program was brought by the arrival of the school’s new Finance Officer, Sister Ma. Eduarda D. Bongo, RVM, and of course, through the approval and wholehearted support of SMAH’s directress/principal Sister Ma. Alice S. Tan, RVM.

This advocacy has been the primary cause of the canteen’s advancement in material. Instead of using styropore and plastic containers, SMAH’s canteen now uses biodegradable containers such as paper cups and carton boxes for food such as rice, dishes and soup.

As part again of this campaign, last August 1, 2011, the parents, who have been delivering lunch for their children in school, have been encouraged to pack the food of their kids in environment-friendly packaging materials instead of styrofoam containers. The parents reacted positively and actively to the said advocacy.

This campaign of SMAH aims to lessen the waste production as well as to be a part of the same program promoted by the Municipal Government of Hagonoy. The program’s primary objective is to create a simple way towards the preservation of our environment, since styropore according to studies has been a major contributor to the pollution and environmental degradation that humans experience nowadays.

Fortunately, the program has been successfully implemented and actively supported by the administrators, parents, guardians, teachers and Marian students.

SMA Sta. Ana goes cleaner, greener and healthier

SMA Sta. Ana actively established support linkages with government institution like Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), non-government agencies like

Marikina Watershed and Bantay Kalikasan, and with popular TV program “Eat Bulaga” in its effort to push for cleaner, greener and more sustainable learning environment. It also has organized the Marian Environmental Task Force (METAFOR) to plan and implement programs that would foster the environmental protection advocacy. Recently, the institution adopted a hanging vegetable garden as part of instilling ecological awareness and consciousness among the community.

On Health and Safety, the school adopted a “No-Junk Food Policy Program”. Soft drinks and snack foods (tsitserya) were removed from the school canteen. The learners are also discouraged to bring junk foods to school particularly for their snacks during recess. The school canteen introduced brown rice in their menu for the students to avail of the benefits of eating brown organic rice.

SNA Balaoan plants 1000 seedlings as gift for Mother Earth

S. Maria Regina Butic, RVM, Campus Minister, and Mr. Lawrence T. Ople, MAPEH Teacher of San Nicolas Academy in Balaoan, led the faculty personnel, together with

select pupils and student leaders, in kilometers of eco walk & climb rendezvous to the mountainous area of Brgy. Manggaan, Santol, La Union last September 2011. The target was to plant 1000 seedlings which were provided by the government. This is in support to the advocacy of nurturing nature for our future, save the earth, plant a tree.

The activity was in close coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) as spearheaded by Dir. Ligaya Soledad T. Miguel, DepEd Regional Director, Region 1 with the theme “Preservation of Nature: A Legacy for the Future.”

Every Nicolasian was excited to comply with the program. Upon entering the barangay, they admired the warm welcome given to them by DENR officials and representatives. Necessary instructions and precautions were discussed to the group before the start of the long journey.

Each one then eagerly took one or two seedlings and started the long trip to Manggaan. Reaching the greening spot was not easy. There was single narrow pathway and muddy portions of the trail. It took more than an hour for the group to walk, climb and cross mountains and fight against the scorching heat of the sun. Some were advised not to proceed after traversing one or two mountains for reasons of health and fatigue.

The efforts paid off. With the indefatigable assistance of the barangay officials and DENR representatives and the Nicolasians’ authentic desire to embrace a green revolution, the goal was hit. 1000 seedlings were planted. Communion with nature was renewed. A true gift for Mother Earth was offered.

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Hagonoy Marians, together with the administration and staff of SMAH, participated in the celebration of the feast day of St. Anne, the patroness of the town. The event

which happened, July 26, was celebrated in honor of St. Anne, Jesus’ grandmother, as spearheaded by His Eminence, Bishop Jose F. Oliveros D.D, Bishop Emeritus, Cirilo Amario Jr. D.D and 18 more co-celebrant priests. The Diocesian Parish of St. Anne has been declared as National Shrine last October 29, 1991, almost 20 years ago.

SMAH was one of the schools to witness and see the relics from the bones of St. Anne, “Ex Osibus.” As part of their remembrance and celebration of the feast, the students initiated vigils for the whole day. Aside from these events, novena masses were also held to further solemnize the celebration.

As a sign of their deep devotion to St. Anne, everyone kissed the relic of St. Anne, after the celebration of the Holy Mass.

T he whole Marian community went for a trip to San Jose del Monte during the early part of the school year.

This bonding is not the usual field trip wherein students visit museums, factories and parks. This educational field trip is also considered a “Nature Trip” for all Marians, wherein the students bonded with Mother Nature. Marians proved that they are brave enough to overcome fear in wall climbing, zip lining and rapelling. The facilitators challenged every Marian to overcome obstacles in doing team building activities like improvised volleyball and basketball, spider web and also finishing obstacles like in the swing and in the Treetop Hanging Bridge, and Swinging Log.

The Paradise Adventure camp (PAC) focuses on having educational and enjoyable activities through individual activities wherein the Marians developed their self confidence, physical fitness and discipline, helped them to overcome fear and made them prepare in times of disaster and other calamities. The

SMAH Venerates the Relics of Saints Anne and Joachim

SMAH One day adventure makes a lifetime experienceLearning while having adventure is an adage we live by.

PAC also has team building activities which promoted Marians in cooperation and developed camaraderie and rapport among the aprticipants. The activities also promoted trust and confidence and improved self esteem and leadership.

This event just proved that learning does not only take place inside the classrooms, but also outside as well. This educational nature trip is a one-day adventure but an experience to last a lifetime.

Representatives from the academic personnel have the following impressions on their arrival and presence:

“With the growth of the institution through the leadership of our principal, S. Mai, we were continuously challenged to commit more ourselves to richer teaching-learning experiences, never to fall short in the plans and programs for the wholistic formation and development of the Nicolasians, thereby ensuring healthy competition and quality excellence. Indeed, SNA is especially gifted for this school year because of the presence of the RVM Sisters. Thank you!”

Miss Loida Obar - HS Academic Coordinator

“They are nice and approachable. They are gifted with pure intellect and values which are evident in the way they speak and relate to us. They are likewise strict... They always want things to be in proper order. But despite of them being disciplinarian, I discovered that they are persons of true care and humor.”

Cindy Valdez - Governor, Supreme Student Government

“Natutuwa at nagpapasalamat kami sa pagdating ng mga RVM Sisters. Mababait sila, palakaibigan, maunawain, nakikinig, handang makiramay at tumulong sa pagsasaayos ng mga problema. Nararamdaman namin ang kanilang presensya. Nagagabayan nila kaming lumago sa aming pananampalataya.”

Mrs. Emily Caloza & Mrs. Elsa Reyes - Canteen Staff

RVM Sisters join in the... from p. 7

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St. Mary’s Academy of Yakal

Named at the school beginning in June 1, 1945 after World War II as Magdalena Academy (because it is

situated at Magdalena, Trozo, Manila) , now , St. Mary’s Academy of Yakal belongs to the ecclesiastical jurisdiction

of San Jose de Trozo Parish administered by the Lorenzo Ruiz Missionary Society. The formerly Magdalena, Trozo,

Manila is now called Masangkay St. Sta. Cruz, Manila where the parish and the Metropolitan Medical Center are.

It was only in 1960 that a new school building was constructed along the banks of Estero de San Lazaro which

is the end of Yakal St., Sta. Cruz, Manila which became the present school campus. The school rests between the

boundary of Sta. Cruz and Tondo, Manila. A big establishment nearby is the the San Lazaro Government Hospital

located at the next block in Quiricada St., Tondo, Manila.

Our very own S. Ma. Corazon Lopez, RVM an alumna of the school batch 1947-1948 fondly related how she

had trod the streets in the school’s surrounding area during off- classes, and how the area was far from the busy

streets that they are today- commercial buildings and businesses, schools and hospitals which address the needs of a

growing community.The school in its 66 years of existence has welcomed young souls to mold and their families to journey with. The

school community thus live and dialogue with life and is a witness to the pressing realities of a densely populated

environ and the lifestyle and challenges of urban living. The Estero de San Lazaro can picture the sight.

The Mother Ignacia Movement and the school community had begun the Annual Free Medical-Dental and

Optical Mission on September 10, 2006 to open its doors to the poor neighborhood and continually done until

the present. The Alternative Learning System and Catechism classes of 4th year students also add as the regular

out- reach program of the school. Though striving to be stable in material and human resources, the school

continue its mission of educating the young, evangelizing families and being the presence of Christ towards social

transformation. “God truly make all things work for the good of all those who love him.” In His guidance and divine

providence, He uses St. Mary’s Academy for His purpose, all for the greater glory of Him.

There’s a Hero... from p. 9then an hour… there was no truck. M. Claire and I settled inside our car and decided to just wait for our boys. We shared stories and experiences. We had our bonding under the rain. . . typhoon. More than two hours of waiting and we saw four 6X6 trucks carrying relief goods and people going to Hagonoy. We decided not to go anymore thinking that our boys were already coming back. But, when we called them we found out that they were still far from St. Mary’s Academy. They walked and swim for eight hours that day from Paombong to Hagonoy and vice versa. One of them experienced cramps in his right foot while travelling back. They were all wet when they came back but we never heard them complained. They risked their lives for the Sisters yet they were joyful going through the experience. If another occasion will call for them to do the same thing, they said they will wholeheartedly do it again.

Was it bravery, courage or faith? When I saw the determination of the four boys to go to Hagonoy, I did not question their faith because I saw in their eyes how determined they were. They knew the needs of the Sisters and the families. They knew the difficulties they would go through. They knew the possibilities of drowning and risking their own lives. Yet, they continued to respond to their mission at that time for they knew that God was with them and God will protect them.

Are they heroes? Yes, all of them are. They are ordinary individuals who find the strength to persevere and endure in spite of the overwhelming obstacles.

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”

Romans 8:28

SMA Sta. Ana Community SMA Ligao, Albay Community SNA Balaoan, La Union Community

BRH Iriga Community SMA Sto. Niño, Meycauayan, Bulacan Community SMA Hagonoy, Bulacan Community

SMA Yakal Community SMA Nagcarlan, Laguna Community SMC Baliuag, Bulacan Community

SMC Boac, Marinduque Community SMA Pasay Community SMA Guagua, Pampanga Community

WELCOME to the Region of Luzon

S. Ma. Angela Doris SMC Meycauayan, Bulacan

S. Ma. Evangeline Dorol SMA Ligao Albay

S. Ma. Justina Obemio SMA Pasay

S. Ma. Elisa Forbes SMA Yakal

S. Ma. Grace CelociaSMA Caloocan

S. Ma. Remy VillaraizSMA Hagonoy

S. Ma. Ruby Amen SMA Hagonoy

S. Maria BanunaekSMA Baliuag Bulacan

S. Ma. Agnes LaaSMA Caloocan

HEARTFELT THANKS

S. Ma. Imakulata Farnesi Indonesia

S. Ma. Consuelo BillanesMother House, Generalate

S. Ma. Ethel SoriñoSt. Mary’s Juniorate, Generalate

S. Ma. Aizha Joanne TySt. Mary’s Juniorate, Generalate

S. Ma. Victoria SalcedaSt. Joseph Home, Generalate

S. Ma. Arianne RebatoSt. Mary’s Juniorate, Generalate

S. Ma. Hermina WelingIndonesia

S. Ma. Irenea AbangSMA Carmen, CDO Northern Mindanao

S. Ma. Ursula BataonaIndonesia

S. Ma. Petronela HerinIndonesia

Regional House CommunitySNA Balaoan, La Union Community SMC Meycauayan, Bulacan Community

SMA Hagonoy, Bulacan Community SMA Caloocan Community

SMC Baliuag, Bulacan Community

SMA Guagua, Pampanga Community

Excerpts from the message of His Holiness Benedict XVI for Lent 2012

T he Lenten season offers us once again an opportunity to reflect upon the very heart of Christian life: charity. This is a favourable time to renew our journey of faith, both as individuals and as a community, with the help of the word of God and

the sacraments. This journey is one marked by prayer and sharing, silence and fasting, in anticipation of the joy of Easter.

I would like to propose a few thoughts in the light of a biblical passage drawn from the Letter to the Hebrews:“ Let us be concerned for each other, to stir a response in love and good works”. 1. “Let us be concerned for each other”: responsibility towards our brothers and sisters.

This calls us to look at others, first of all at Jesus, to be concerned for one another, and not to remain isolated and indifferent to the fate of our brothers and sisters. All too often, however, our attitude is just the opposite: an indifference and disinterest born of selfishness and masked as a respect for “privacy”. Today too, the Lord’s voice summons all of us to be concerned for one another. Even today God asks us to be “guardians” of our brothers and sisters (Gen 4:9), to establish relationships based on mutual consideration and attentiveness to the well-being, the integral well-being of others.

Concern for others entails desiring what is good for them from every point of view: physical, moral and spiritual. Contemporary culture seems to have lost the sense of good and evil, yet there is a real need to reaffirm that good does exist and will prevail, because God is “generous and acts generously” (Ps 119:68). The good is whatever gives, protects and promotes life, brotherhood and communion. Responsibility towards others thus means desiring and working for the good of others, in the hope that they too will become receptive to goodness and its demands.

Concern for others means being aware of their needs. Sacred Scripture warns us of the danger that our hearts can become hardened by a sort of “spiritual anesthesia” which numbs us to the suffering of others. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, the priest and the Levite “pass by”, indifferent to the presence of the man stripped and beaten by the robbers (cf. Lk 10:30-32). This parable shows the opposite of “being concerned”, of looking upon others with love and compassion. What hinders this humane and loving gaze towards our brothers and sisters? Often it is the possession of material riches and a sense of sufficiency, but it can also be the tendency to put our own interests and problems above all else. Our hearts should never be so wrapped up in our affairs and problems that they fail to hear the cry of the poor. Humbleness of heart and the personal experience of suffering can awaken within us a sense of compassion and empathy.

“Being concerned for each other” also entails being concerned for their spiritual well-being. Christian admonishment, for its part, is never motivated by a spirit of accusation or recrimination. It is always moved by love and mercy, and springs from genuine concern for the good of the other. As the Apostle Paul says: “If one of you is caught doing something wrong, those of you who are spiritual should set that person right in a spirit of gentleness; and watch yourselves that you are not put to the test in the same way” (Gal 6:1). Scripture tells us that even “the upright falls seven times” (Prov 24:16); all of us are weak and imperfect (cf. 1 Jn 1:8). It is a great service, then, to help others and allow them to help us, so that we can be open to the whole truth about ourselves, improve our lives and walk more uprightly in the Lord’s ways. 2. “Being concerned for each other”: the gift of reciprocity.

A society like ours can become blind to physical sufferings and to the spiritual and moral demands of life. This must not be the case in the Christian community! The Apostle Paul encourages us to seek “the ways which lead to peace and the ways in which we can support one another” (Rom 14:19) for our neighbour’s good, “so that we support one another” (15:2), seeking not personal gain but rather “the advantage of everybody else, so that they may be saved” (1 Cor 10:33). This mutual correction and encouragement in a spirit of humility and charity must be part of the life of the Christian community. 3. “To stir a response in love and good works”: walking together in holiness.

Being concerned for one another should spur us to an increasingly effective love which, “like the light of dawn, its brightness growing to the fullness of day” (Prov 4:18), makes us live each day as an anticipation of the eternal day awaiting us in God. Sadly, there is always the temptation to become lukewarm, to quench the Spirit, to refuse to invest the talents we have received, for our own good and for the good of others (cf. Mt 25:25ff.).

In a world which demands of Christians a renewed witness of love and fidelity to the Lord, may all of us feel the urgent need to anticipate one another in charity, service and good works (cf. Heb 6:10). This appeal is particularly pressing in this holy season of preparation for Easter. As I offer my prayerful good wishes for a blessed and fruitful Lenten period, I entrust all of you to the intercession of Mary Ever Virgin and cordially impart my Apostolic Blessing.

© Copyright 2011 - Libreria Editrice Vaticana

“Let us be concerned for each other,

to stir a response in love and good works”

(Heb 10:24)