In celebration of the Christmas season, the Bishop Hacbang Gym brimmed with series of shared happiness on December 4th as the Saint Joseph College (SJC) – Elementary Department initiated their annual Adopt-A-Brother Program, a 27-year heartwarming outreach activity, the legacy of the department’s commitment to community charity, paired SJC Elementary pupils with the benefiting pupils from Ibarra Elementary School, the adopted brothers and sisters.
The program initially began with a Holy Mass presided over by Rev. Fr. Mark Ortega, setting a reverent tone throughout the program. In Fr. Ortega’s homily, he highlighted his joyous feeling about taking over the assigned mass, and presiding over it unhesitatingly, highlighting the importance of cultivating kindness, generosity, and unity among pupils, inspired by Christian values and community spirit, with parental support and guidance.
“I am delighted to see the pupils sharing and extending help to their brothers and sisters from Ibarra Elementary School, embodying generosity and kindness. These acts of goodwill reflect Jesus’ love for us as His adopted children. Parents, encourage your children’s generosity, praying, and instilling God’s values of nurture and care,” Rev. Fr. Ortega shared.
Following the Mass, the program officially commenced with the singing of the National Anthem, a prayer led by the Singing Angels Choir, and SJC hymn. In an inspiring message from Mrs. Rosemarie B. Cortel, SJC Elementary Department Principal, she delivered her genuine happiness in welcoming the faculty, principal, staff, students, and parents to the program for making it possible.
“Thank you for saying yes to our invitation. It is more than just an outreach activity; it is a celebration of Spirit of the Christmas. Today, we are building a friendship in a more special program,” Mrs. Cortel expressed.
The pupils then showcased their various talents through captivating performances, starting from The Songbird Club, who captivated the audience with their delightful trio, singing of “Oh Holy Night,” while the Dancing Angel’s Club, who energized the atmosphere with their vibrant dance moves. Ibarra Elementary School pupils reciprocated the sponsoring pupils’ performances with a charming choral singing performance, demonstrating their thanksgiving as a way of appreciation.
The two significant highlights of the program were the book donation and gift giving from the Saint Joseph Elementary Department sponsored pupils, presents dedicated to the beneficiary pupils of Ibarra Elementary School that will continue to nurture the young minds long after the holiday season. Mrs. Analeen G. Abeรฑon, Ibarra Elementary School Teacher III, expressed her heartfelt gratitude for this generous contribution and the overall support shown by the SJC Elementary principal, teaching staff, PTA officials, parents, and pupils for this incredible program.
“This program is a life-changing opportunity that we will cherish forever. Your vision and commitment to fostering brotherhood and support have created a platform that empowers individuals to grow, learn, and fly, Mrs. Abeรฑon stated.
The program culminated in the presentation of certificates of appreciation, as well as the much-anticipated gift-giving ceremony per year level, beaming the faces of the Ibarra Elementary pupils while receiving gifts from their SJC “brothers and sisters,” was remarkable of the program’s continuous legacy. Mrs. Lea B. Bohol, the emcee of the program, ensured a smooth and engaging flow throughout the program.
“After receiving those gifts, I hope the sponsored pupils continue to spread, give, and make a difference throughout the year,” Mrs. Bohol concluded.
The Adopt-A-Brother Program by the SJC – Elementary Department is a powerful source of the spirit of giving and camaraderie. It was a one-of-a-kind best example of how a simple yet meaningful act of kindness can result in a lasting post-memorable scar on the lives of others.
โ
Words:
๐๐จ๐ก๐ง ๐๐จ๐ฌ๐ก๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ข๐ซ๐ญ๐ฎ๐๐๐ณ๐จ
The Josephinian
Photos:
๐๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐๐๐ข๐ญ๐ก ๐๐ง๐ข๐ฆ๐จ๐ฌ
SHS Media
