By: Arkhin Suba, Grade 6 – St. Joachim
One of the annual activities in the Grade School Department is the Pre-Lenten Recollection, an opportunity to hear God’s call more clearly and to deepen one’s relationship with God.
The activity was participated by 2 sections of Grade 6 students last January 6, this recollection became a tradition in Holy Cross College to encourage the graduating students to rekindle their faith and hope.
It was facilitated by Marvin Pangan, or “Kuya Marvin” , called by his participants. He is the Coordinator for Retreat and Recollection Center for Christian Formation at Angeles University Foundation.
“Sir Marvin Pangan discussed to us the meaning of recollection, our dreams in life, how to thank and have faith in the Lord,” said Arkhin Suba.
Even though it is virtual, the facilitator made it interactive by playing games. “The games are not just like a typical game because at the end it has a moral lesson,” Suba added.
Students like Leianna Aelee Gonzales realized to be grateful and feel blessed despite the challenges of the pandemic.
“Our disposition must be open. We should be ready for what God will do to us because the success of an online journey will always depend on our openness. If you focus too much on what you want to see, you won’t feel and you will not see the beauty around you,” said Gonzales.
The Grade 6 students were given time to reflect physically, emotionally, and ofcourse spiritually. Kuya Marvin also taught them how to improve their holistic and spiritual needs.
This retreat provides them the moment of prayer, sharing, and understanding of who they are, and this is the right time for them to develop their spiritual growth.
“I learned also the two gifts of life one is CHOICE, second is CHANGE. The choice of a good life and the chance to make it the best! Saludo ako sa paaralang may Puso (HCC). Nagpapasalamat ako sa dalawang guro namin sa Grade 6, Teacher Cath & Teacher Ayesa kahit na pandemic tuloy parin ang aming recollectio and to Mr. Marvin Pangan thank you for your sharing and motivating us,” said Jennyca Sanchez.
Moreover, the Campus Ministry spearheaded by Romulo Carlos will also conduct Pre-Lenten Recollection to the Junior High School Department until February 19.