FYNHS celebrates Filipino Values Month through a meaningful recollection

A total of one hundred thirty-seven Grade 10 students (both Catholic and Non-Catholic) from Federico Yap National High School, Astorga, Davao del Sur successfully participated in a recollection at St. John Paul II Sub-Parish Inawayan, which was initiated by the Values teachers who actively joined the Filipino Values Month by the Department of Education.

There were two batches of this retreat, the first batch was held last Thursday, November 15 with fifty-seven male participants and another eighty female participants on the second day, Friday, November 16, 2018. Their recollection master Rev. Fr. Carlo Balaguer, RCJ reminded the youth of their true value by allowing them to know themselves and to discover their very own self-image.

He instructed the students to build up their positive character by avoiding negative thoughts and to stop comparing themselves with others. Fr. Carlo told them that in order to be good, they should look at their mistakes and failures as learning opportunities and keep using their talents for their own development.

He also challenged the participants to set goals in life to enable them to be more motivated in achieving their dreams. Many inspiring video clips were presented to the students during the activity. These made them reflect on how blessed and lucky they are.

Overwhelming sentiments were felt by each participant during their group sharing. The students learned that aside from their families, there are people who became instruments of God to help them in their journey through life such as their closest friends.

Fr. Carlo encouraged the students that in whatever situation they may be in right now, they must learn to say three magical words: Sorry, Thank You and I Love You. These words will make their lives more comfortable.

The sacrament of reconciliation was received by the participants in the afternoon followed with the Holy Mass celebrated by Fr. Carlo.

In his homily he said, “May this recollection be fruitful and may whatever you have reflected from this activity bring joy into your hearts. May you start a new beginning with our Lord today.”

The values coordinator of Federico Yap National High School, Ma’am Maribel Cobol and the guidance counselor-designated, Ma’am Sarah Cadusale extended their deep gratitude to the school administrators, faculty and staff who gave their unwavering support to this recollection.

They also acknowledged the dedication given by the parents and guardians of these grade 10 students. The efforts of the school, headed by their school principal, Ma’am Josephine Aragon and other Grade 10 values teachers, Ramie Buhion, Liera Niña Manginsay and Abegail Casar were also appreciated.

Above all, they personally thanked the Lord for giving them the opportunity to celebrate the Filipino Values Month with St. John Paul II Sub-Parish Inawayan as their partner in this two-day religious activity. (Glen Miculob | SUGID SoCCom)