Boisterous applause and excited shouts welcomed the Hijas de Jesus Sisters as they entered the Sky Gymnasium, greeted by an audience of Grade School pupils, Junior and Senior High School students, as well as School Faculty and Staff. On August 10, 2023, the Mother General of the Hijas de Jesus Congregation, Sr. Graciela Francovig, F.I., and her General Consultant, Sr. Maria Teresa Pinto, F.I., arrived at the Stella Maris Academy of Davao to celebrate Mother Foundress’ Day. The event, which started at 3:00 PM, took place at the Sky Gymnasium. There, Sr. Graciela Francovig and Sr. Maria Pinto were warmly welcomed with performances, messages, and gifts presented by the students and teachers.

The event commenced with opening remarks from the emcees, Sir Raphael Angelo Bentoy and Pleione Odrada. They introduced the Hijas de Jesus sisters, who had traveled from Rome, Italy, to the Philippines. Following the opening remarks, the F.I. Youth presented the opening prayer in the form of a doxology, which was followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem.

The sisters received welcome messages from Yulia Aeren Pasia of Grade 3, Tiffany Lauren Chan of Grade 10, and Mr. Luis C. Arongoso Jr. The highlights of these messages included acknowledging the sisters’ sacrifice in carrying on the values and teachings of St. Candida Maria de Jesus, as well as emphasizing our unity as people of knowledge and faith.

During the event, the Stargazers, Sir Earl Fernandez and Ma’am Lynilyn Castillo showcased the rich culture of Mindanao through traditional dances such as Singkil, Patong, and various Tribal and Moro dances. Kindergarten pupils, faculty, and staff, along with PTA representatives, also presented gifts and bouquets to Sr. Graciela and Sr. Teresa.

The Mother General delivered a message of gratitude to those who contributed to the event's success and to all the participants. Mrs. Sharmilla Ong, the President of the SMAD Alumni Association, also expressed her appreciation to Sr. Graciela for her presence at SMAD and thanked her for dedicating her time.

The day after the event, Sr. Graciela and Sr. Teresa visited several classrooms throughout the school to interact with the students.        

"When I saw the Mother General, I experienced a profound sense of pride and joy for our school, knowing how privileged we were to have her presence among us. Interacting with the Mother General filled me with even greater inspiration to embrace St. Candida's advocacy. Her gentle and kind demeanor towards all the students and staff instilled in me a renewed hope in humanity. It made me believe that if everyone drew inspiration from the actions of St. Candida, we could truly make a positive impact, just as our Mother General does." This was the response of Zyann Kris Bonifacio Ditan, a student at Stella Maris Academy of Davao when asked about her emotions upon encountering the Hijas de Jesus sisters.      

The visit of Sr. Graciela Francovig and Sr. Maria Theresa Pinto was met with great enthusiasm, as numerous students eagerly anticipated the opportunity to meet the sisters. The embodiment of Marisian values became evident in the students and faculty's responses during their interactions with the Mother General and her General Consultor. Their reactions were characterized by respect, joy, and a spirit of generosity. The sisters' visit served as a source of inspiration, prompting many to recognize the significance of embodying the virtues upheld by St. Candida. The experience underscored the importance of consistently adhering to these virtues.

The concluding quote, "Blessed be God, who loves us so dearly," encapsulates the very essence of St. Candida's life and reminds us to always express gratitude to God for His boundless love.

 by Klent Jearnel C. Abanil

THE PHOTOS...

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