The General Congregation XIX (GC XIX) of the Hijas de Jesús Congregation, held in Rome, represents a pivotal moment of spiritual renewal and strategic direction for the Congregation. As the highest form of governance, it serves as a time for deep discernment, prayerful dialogue, and the collective resolution of the congregation's future priorities. The transmission of its proceedings to the Manresa School Educative Community is a crucial step in aligning the school's mission with the broader vision of the Hijas de Jesus.

The transmission of the GC XIX is an essential process for all personnel at Manresa School, including the lay partners who form the majority of the educational community. It ensures that everyone is deeply integrated into the spiritual and apostolic mission of the Hijas de Jesus Congregation. As presented by Sr. Gemma Doguiles F.I. and further detailed by the newly elected provincial superior, Sr. Leoly Quitorio F.I., the transmission serves several key purposes:

• • • The transmission serves as a spiritual foundation that unifies the school community and deepens its understanding of the congregation’s charism, which is rooted in St. Candida Maria of Jesus.
    • The transmission of GC XIX discerns and sets apostolic calls that provide a clear roadmap for the congregation’s work in the coming years. With these calls, Manresa School is challenged to find new and creative ways to live out the mission in its specific roles, whether in the classroom, in administration, or in student formation.
    • The transmission validates and empowers lay personnel as active, co-responsible partners in the congregation’s mission.

The Hijas de Jesus congregation places a strong emphasis on the collaboration between religious sisters and lay partners. Sr. Leoly Quitorio F.I. highlighted the "determination" of the congregation—the formal, collective decision made after deep discernment—which gave special attention to the crucial role of the laity. The laity are no longer seen as merely supportive, but as co-responsible for the mission. The GC XIX calls us to live out the congregation’s charism in our own daily lives and vocations. This includes a commitment to ongoing, joint formation programs that strengthen the spiritual and intellectual bond between religious and lay partners, ensuring that the entire Manresan community is well-equipped to serve and respond to the apostolic calls.

The transmission session sparked meaningful sharing and personal reflections from various groups within the Manresa School community, underscoring the deep impact of the GC XIX's message.

• • • Kuya Jun and Ate Joan from the Maintenance Personnel spoke about their generosity and unity, a powerful example of living out the mission through their actions. Their reflection on helping a scholar despite their own struggles was a humbling reminder that the spirit of giving transcends titles and roles.
    • Mr. Maravilla of the Grade School Department reminded us that every decision, every "determination,” begins with discernment. His words resonated with my own hope to always choose the right path, both for myself and for the students.
    • The High School teachers’ reflections were particularly impactful. Mr. Roquero's challenge to transform “vulnerability into strength" spoke to the core of personal growth. Ms. Esconebra's reflection on the true purpose of education—to change the world—reignited my passion for teaching. It's a reminder that our work goes beyond the classroom; it's about shaping a future rooted in St. Candida's teachings.
    • From the Staff, Ms. Sapao's reflection on her personal calling resonated with me. It’s comforting to know that sometimes the path isn't clear, but the important thing is to be open to God’s calling. Ms. Mirambil’s emphasis on humility and remaining open to the spirit of Mother Candida, even amidst "worldly things," was a grounding thought.
    • Mr. Geronimo’s unique reflection on the word "life" was a beautiful way to conclude the session. He reminded us that our lives are precious and interconnected within this community. The GC XIX‘s determination to "walk with other people to see them as an inspiration" felt like a perfect summary of our shared journey.

As a lay partner, I've always felt a connection to the school's mission, but this session, led by Sr. Gemma Doguiles F.I. and Sr. Leoly Quitorio F.I., solidified my role. It was a profound reminder that the mission of St. Candida Maria of Jesus isn't just for the Hijas De Jesus sisters; it's a shared charism that extends to all of us. This wasn't about being passive supporters; it was about being co-responsible partners. It was a challenge not only to understand the congregation’s values but also to truly live them out in the day to day.

Ultimately, the GC XIX transmission was a powerful affirmation of our unity as a community. Sr. Leoly Quitorio’s final message—that the sisters are here to live out these teachings with us—reinforced the idea that we are truly “one family of Mother Candida." This experience has given me a new sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of my role in ensuring the mission of Hijas de Jesus continues to thrive. It’s a message of hope, a call to action, and a beautiful recognition that the future of this institution depends on every single one of us, working together as one.

Prepared by:

Miss Marjorie Grefal

SOME IMAGES OF THE TRANSMISSION