..SHE.PROMOTES THE CALL TO TRANSFORM THE WORLD THROUGH CATHOLIC EDUCATION

The Hijas de Jesus Mother General, Sr. Graciela Francovig, F.I., pays a historic canonical visit on August 8-9, 2023.  During the welcome program attended by the F.I. sisters, parent representatives, administrators, faculty and staff, and pupils and students, she speaks the message of transforming the world through the concern for and journeying with others, as well as in the care of the common home. The invitation echoes the profound spirituality of St. Candida Maria de Jesus, borne of her deep love for Jesus, and the call of Pope Francis in his encyclical Fratelli Tutti.   Sr. Graciela is joined by Sr. Teresa Pinto, F.I., the General Counselor, and Sr. Emelinda Falsis, F.I., the Provincial Superior of the Hijas de Jesus Indico-Pacific Province. 

Sr. Graciela sees her visit as a grace-filled and beautiful time of meeting the members of the educative communities, to see the different realities of the apostolic presence in the country, particularly the schools. 

The sight of the children brings to her mind the Foundress’ saying, “It is my joy to see many young children come to our school for Christian Education.” She expresses the warmth in her heart for the parents’ decision and belief in the Hijas’ way of forming the hearts and minds of the young.  She particularly pins her hopes on the children that education will draw them to transform the world, in dire need of hope and peace, through the development of concern in each other’s journey and the care of the common home, the Earth. 

Lovingly, she emphasizes the desire of the Foundress, St. Candida Maria de Jesus, and the invitation of the Pope in his letter Fratelli Tutti for all of her children to be a brother or a sister to each other with the firm assurance of each other’s identity as a child of a loving and providential Father. 

She calls with gratitude all those working and collaborating with the school as “companions in the journey of educating the young.”  She recognizes that Integral Formation “entails a lot of dedication, commitment, and responsibility.”  She leaves an inspiring thought that all Christian Educators, in their response to the call of service, may find solace in the deep joy of making someone a better person.

In conclusion, she encourages all present to make the short encounter a step toward greater familiarity with each other, a global connection with all members of the F.I. Apostolic Centers through prayers and thoughts for each other.

The presence of Sr. Garciela and the accompanying sisters has made the celebration of the Feast Day of St. Candida Maria more meaningful.  She has joined the whole educative family in the recitation of the 3rd Day Triduum Prayers, and the short reflection that follows.  It is a grace to be in the physical space that the Mo. General is in.  Her simplicity and aura are prime examples of how simplicity speaks a lot without a single word uttered.

It is with a spirit of gratitude that even in a short time, the school is able to share with the visiting sisters the experience a part of the school’s reality, journey, dreams, history, and culture. They have joined us in the 3rd Day Triduum Prayer in Honor of the Feast Day of Mo. Foundress, and in the celebration of the Holy Eucharist officiated by Fr. Silvinio “Jun-jun” Borres, Jr., S.J. They have heard our well-wishes and messages as conveyed by various sector representatives: Mrs. Rosalie A. Idulsa, Mrs. Cherryl Lim (PA President and an alumna).  Srs. Graciela and Teresa have accepted with appreciation the gifts and flowers shared by the representatives of the student body and by members of the Faculty and Staff. 

Select High School students to perform a fusion of the Sinulog and Fan Dances.  It depicts the cultural heritage of Cebu, Philippines, and serves as a grateful recollection of the founding of the school, as a response to the need of the Cebu Chinese Community to the Jesuit priests for the instruction of their daughters.

They have generously given their time, their presence, and smiles in the dialogues and during the breaking of bread that follows the blessing of the newest infrastructures in the school,

Indeed, a moment can take in the past, the present, and the future.  We have such experience with Srs. Graciela and Teresa.  The memories of this canonical visit shall be etched forever in the annals of the history of the school.  The smiles, the exchanges of greetings, the sharing of the gifts of persons, and the renewed dedication and gratitude for the legacy of Mo. Foundress - the Integral Christian Education will hold a special spot in our hearts.

Through thoughts and prayers, we stay globally connected.

- Maria Theresa Pescadero

Sr. Graciela addressing the Sacred Heart School - Hijas educative community during the welcome program.

A light moment as the sisters welcome the presider of the Holy Eucharist celebrating the Feast Day of Mo. Candida, Fr. Silveno “Junjun” Borres Jr, SJ.

A commemorative shot of the canonical visit of Srs. Graciela and Teresa, accompanied by Sr. Lyn with teachers and staff of Sacred Heart School - Hijias de Jesus.

Taking time to get personal after a group photo with Junior High School cadettes.

Receiving the giant card of messages from a little Kinder boy assisted by his teacher..