Through the Provincial Youth Ministry Team, the Hijas de Jesus schools of Panay-Guimaras - Colegio de las Hijas de Jesus Iloilo City, St. Joseph School Guimaras, and St. James Catholic High School, Maasin collaborated and organized a whole-day outreach program for indigenous children in Tubang, Maasin last June 29th. The aim was not only to bring joy and education to the children but also to foster a sense of unity and understanding among our own students.

To start the day, we shared the inspiring life story of St. Candida, the patroness of our school. We looked at her journey and the positive impact she made on the society. The children received with enthusiasm while participating in the activities. We saw their creativity and open engagement in prayer. In understanding the significance of our spirituality, we spent time teaching the children how to pray and reflect on their faith. This allowed them to connect with their inner selves and appreciate the power of their relationship with God in their lives. Teaching them how to pray was a significant moment as we saw them connecting with God in a deeper and more personal way.

We also organized a book coloring session where the children could express their creativity and imagination. It was heartwarming to experience the joy on their faces as they painted and made beautiful masterpieces. There was a dance exercise, too. Lastly, we had tree planting. This hands-on activity enabled them to understand the importance of preserving nature and symbolized our commitment to care for and protect God's creation.

After the event, the different schools gathered to reflect on the day and share their experience. It was a beautiful moment of unity as we realized that despite coming from different backgrounds and schools, we were all united in our love for God and desire to serve others. We understood that serving these indigenous children was not just about giving them material things but also about sharing our experiences, knowledge, and faith with them.

This outreach experience opened our eyes and made us realize that true fulfillment comes from serving others and living in harmony with God's creation. We understood that in everything we do, we are connected with God and with each other. It was a humbling experience that taught us to value solidarity and to appreciate the immeasurable blessings that come from serving others.

As we continue our journey, we carry the lessons learned from this outreach. We strive to be a beacon of love, compassion, and unity in our daily lives. We reach out to those in need and share the love of God with everyone we meet.

World Youth Day may be a celebration, but it also serves as a reminder that our faith calls us to action and to make a positive impact on the world around us.

-Zaiza Emmanuelle Barrios