Manresa School celebrated the Feast Day of Mo. Candida on August 9, with the theme "Mo. Candida: Tagapaghatid ng Pag-asa, Pag-ibig at Pananampalataya." The Pastoral Ministry Team, led by Mr. Archee Curiba, organized various activities for the students to deepen their understanding of Mo. Candida's life, her mission, and God's providence in her life. Meanwhile, the Manresa School Faculty and Staff Organization (MSFSO) Officers, under the leadership of Ms. April Vida, coordinated the afternoon activities for the Sisters, teachers, staff, maintenance personnel, and security guards.

The day commenced with a Eucharistic celebration in the gymnasium, presided over by Rev. Fr. Kevin Cosme, a Manresa School alumnus. The Mass was well-attended by different members of the Manresa School community. The event was honored by the presence of Sr. Emelinda C. Falsis, F.I., the Provincial Superior of the Hijas de Jesús of the Indico-Pacifico Province, who was on her Canonical Visit to the FI sisters in Paranaque Residence and Manresa School from August 5-10, 2024.

The Feast Day of Mo. Candida at Manresa School was a joyous and enriching celebration for students and staff alike. Nursery 2, Grade 2, and Grade 3 pupils participated in engaging activities such as Para-Liturgy, Storytelling, and Fun Activities. Meanwhile, other grade levels had asynchronous activities online.

After the para-liturgy and storytelling, the Nursery 2 pupils shared omelet sandwiches with the maintenance personnel, guards, school bus drivers, and conductors. This tradition helps the preschoolers appreciate Little Juanita's generosity and learn the value of kindness to others.

The Grades 2 and 3 pupils made floral and prayer offerings to Mo. Candida in the Manresa School El Rosarillo chapel after the para-liturgy, storytelling, and a short quiz about Mo. Candida's life.

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The Creative Storytelling Activity about the life of Mo. Candida, directed by the Pastoral Team, captivated the Grade 4 to 6 pupils. The performance deepened their understanding of Mo. Candida's faith, hope, and love, inspiring them to emulate her qualities.

Junior High School students were impacted by testimonials about Mo. Candida. Ms. Larrene Joy Bilangel and Mrs. Rhoelyn Del Rosario shared their personal experiences, highlighting the impact Mo. Candida had on their lives.

The Senior High School students attended a live-streamed Eucharistic celebration and participated in an asynchronous Digital Poster-Making Contest.

In the afternoon, teachers and staff attended a talk by Sr. Nori Marquez, FI, about the life and virtues of Mo. Candida, contained in the newly reproduced book "Juanitatxo."

The Manresa School Faculty and Staff Organization (MSFSO) Officers, headed by Ms. April Vida, facilitated the enjoyable and enriching activities that not only showcased the wit, talents, and creativity of all in group games and activities but also deepened knowledge and appreciation for  Mo. Candida; and strengthened everyone's faith, hope, and love of God through her story and inspiration. The celebration ended with a salu-salo and the singing of Mo. Foundress Hymn Clara Estrella.

Feedback from participants highlighted the joy, inspiration, and renewed sense of purpose experienced during the celebration. Students and staff felt a stronger connection to the values and mission of Mo. Candida, and the event fostered a deep sense of community and belonging. It was a truly memorable and impactful celebration for all involved.

Here are some reflections and impressions about the Feast Day celebration in honor of Mo. Candida:

Audrina Mariana Mendoza, Grade 10-Service:

"I felt joyous to be celebrating Mo. Candida’s Feast Day with my friends and fellow Manresans. The Testimonials ignited a passion in me to pursue what I love, and to keep God with me in the process. I truly felt loved during the celebration and helped me see the goodness of Mo. Candida."

Ms. Ericka Shane Espejo, New Grade School Science Teacher:

"The Feast Day of Mother Candida Maria de Jesus was a deep spiritual and communal event that provided an opportunity to reflect on the values that she lived by - faith, humility, and an unwavering commitment in helping those in need. I experienced a renewed sense of purpose, finding inspiration in her life story to pursue my own goals with greater compassion and dedication. The event fostered a strong sense of community, uniting people under a shared mission of promoting education and service, particularly among the underprivileged. Ultimately, the Feast Day celebration left participants with a renewed sense of belonging, a deeper spiritual connection, and a strengthened resolve to continue Mother Candida’s mission of love and service to all."

Mr. John Anthony Jesswani, New JHS IMC Staff:

"As a new employee of Manresa School, the celebration of the Feast Day of Mo. Candida was truly a wonderful and unique experience for me. In my preparation and my participation in the Creative Storytelling Activity, I got to know more Mo. Candida as I read her story in the book entitled “Juanitatxo” which left me feeling inspired, motivated, and more attached to Manresa School."

Ms. Marjorie Grefal, Manresa School Personnel In-Charge:

"I was particularly moved by the Talk of Sr. Normida Marquez, F.I. about St. Candida’s unwavering faith and devotion to God that serve as an inspiration for many to strengthen their spiritual journey. As I reflect on the feast day activities, I am challenged to examine my own life. Am I living my faith with the same depth of commitment as St. Candida? Am I serving others with the same selfless love? May St. Candida continuously guide and uplift the whole Manresan community."