Last week, we had a very beautiful celebration in my parish: receiving the sacrament of CONFIRMATION. Some of you may not know but I have been volunteering myself as a catechist in my community. It was quite of a challenge at first since I have to balance my social life over my Sunday obligations. But honestly speaking, I have never felt so complete doing this vocation. I am teaching teenagers who uniquely differs from one another. They are in the era of technology and are questioned and criticized by their bold statements. But, really the challenge for me is how can I bring them closer to God? How can I let them understand that it is not the matter of how good they look, the kind of gadgets they own, and the prestige they posses but moreover the kind of person they are becoming? And how sure am I that I can be an instrument of change? I have so many questions and concerns but I gave my yes to the Lord for I know that this challenge would also be a learning experience for me.
Every single Sunday, I tried my best to give them in depth understanding about life and of Jesus. I am no traditional, so my teaching strategy for my class is to give them activities where they can relate in their own personal lives. One of my favorite session with them was when we had a discussion about carrying our own baggages (anger, anxiety, hatred, insecurity, etc...) and how should we deal with it. I asked for two volunteers to come up in front and if they are strong enough to carry 2 galloons of paint and how long can they hold it. While doing the activity, I gave them different situations to think about. And the reflection was: as vulnerable as we are how long can we carry that heavy load of everything? And who will help us carry it when no one is available?
I am really happy that I am part of their spiritual journey. I may not be perfect and they might be too playful at times but what is really important is that we were able to respect and understand each other. Seeing them with their parents and sponsors during the ceremony, I can't help myself but thanked God for the given opportunity of serving HIM in the best of my abilities.
To my 8th graders (Confirmation Class): You guys really helped me find my own meaning in this new place I am in. You will always be part of me and I am proud of each one of you. As what Bishop Chappetto said, "It does not end today but your journey starts here-- continue to serve God by serving others." Our learnings shouldn't end inside our four-walled classroom but instead we should all go out and set the world on fire. My prayers goes to all of you: Ashley, Quintin, Milena, Ryan, Jennifer, Darion, Patricia, Bryan, Michelle, Cyril, Denisse, Rodman, Jasmine, Russel, Nicole, Vernon, Kate, John, Jesse, Edgar, Jennifer C., Frank, Leslie, Albert, Johann, Isaiah, Chelsea, Ronaldo, Kelly, Paola, Sam, Jamie, Abril, Angelica, Shivani and Rochelle. And special thanks to Ms. Gallo for her love and support. :)
Every single Sunday, I tried my best to give them in depth understanding about life and of Jesus. I am no traditional, so my teaching strategy for my class is to give them activities where they can relate in their own personal lives. One of my favorite session with them was when we had a discussion about carrying our own baggages (anger, anxiety, hatred, insecurity, etc...) and how should we deal with it. I asked for two volunteers to come up in front and if they are strong enough to carry 2 galloons of paint and how long can they hold it. While doing the activity, I gave them different situations to think about. And the reflection was: as vulnerable as we are how long can we carry that heavy load of everything? And who will help us carry it when no one is available?
I am really happy that I am part of their spiritual journey. I may not be perfect and they might be too playful at times but what is really important is that we were able to respect and understand each other. Seeing them with their parents and sponsors during the ceremony, I can't help myself but thanked God for the given opportunity of serving HIM in the best of my abilities.
To my 8th graders (Confirmation Class): You guys really helped me find my own meaning in this new place I am in. You will always be part of me and I am proud of each one of you. As what Bishop Chappetto said, "It does not end today but your journey starts here-- continue to serve God by serving others." Our learnings shouldn't end inside our four-walled classroom but instead we should all go out and set the world on fire. My prayers goes to all of you: Ashley, Quintin, Milena, Ryan, Jennifer, Darion, Patricia, Bryan, Michelle, Cyril, Denisse, Rodman, Jasmine, Russel, Nicole, Vernon, Kate, John, Jesse, Edgar, Jennifer C., Frank, Leslie, Albert, Johann, Isaiah, Chelsea, Ronaldo, Kelly, Paola, Sam, Jamie, Abril, Angelica, Shivani and Rochelle. And special thanks to Ms. Gallo for her love and support. :)
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| Taken during the Diocesan Youth Day @ Immaculate Conception |
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