Fostering Togetherness: GSL Family Day

In celebration of the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, St. Mary of the Perpetual Rosary Parish hosted its annual GKK Servant Leaders (GSL) Family Day at the Parish Gym on January 7, 2024, at 11:00 in the morning. This marks the 3rd year of holding the GSL Family Day.

GKK Servant Leaders from different ministries and the 56 GKKs gathered in joy and unity to celebrate the gift of companionship and togetherness. Upon registration, each GSL received a raffle stub necessary for the highly anticipated raffle drawing of the event.

The St. Mary Youth Choir (SMYC) sang the opening prayer, followed by the opening remarks by Rev. Fr. Dionisio “Diony” Tabiliran, the Parish Priest. Fr. Diony expressed his happiness seeing GSLs from various ministries and GKKs coming together. He hoped the event would bring the GSLs closer and strengthen the bonds they share.

Intermission numbers followed, starting with the Pangulo sa Pagpanudlo (PSP), declared Champion of the recently concluded Christmas Chorale Competition on December 28, 2023. They performed their winning entry, bringing warm Christmas cheers to the GSLs. Following them, the Pangulo sa Kristohanong Banay (PSKB) danced energetically, showcasing swift and lively movements.

The Parish Pastoral Team, alongside the PSK Zone Coordinators and Fr. Diony, engaged in fun caroling, singing a medley of Christmas songs, heightening the Christmas spirit among the servant leaders of SMPRP. The much-awaited raffle began, starting with the minor prizes. It was spearheaded by the Parish Social Action Ministry (PSAM) and assisted by the Social Communications Committee (SoCCom) to validate the winning number and the registered name of the holder.

After the first part of the raffle, a lunch break followed. Each ministry had tables with food, sharing generously with one another. Fr. Diony Tabiliran, Fr. Boy Roland Ong, and Rev. Julius Lugay were all present at the event. A community dance followed after lunch, led by PSP Jacky Ramos, with GSLs and Rev. Julius participating.

With everyone’s energy restored, the second part of the raffle began. During the break, the Pangulo sa Alagad (PSA), SoCCom, and PSK showcased their dance skills and Christmas spirit. Finally, the last part of the raffle resumed, with everyone anticipating the major prize. After handing out the major prize, the GSLs gathered for the closing prayer and joyfully went on their ways, carrying not only the physical gifts received but also the gifts of friendship and camaraderie held dear in their hearts.

The Epiphany of the Lord symbolizes the manifestation and proclamation of the Lord not only to the people of Israel but to the whole world. It signifies the universal love and mercy of the Lord towards people worldwide. Like the three (3) wise men or the magi who sought the star of Jesus Christ, may the GKK Servant Leaders of St. Mary of the Perpetual Rosary Parish search for the light of the Child Jesus. May it also transform them into stars, albeit small, guiding lights leading others into the love, grace, and mercy of the Savior, Jesus Christ. (Allyza Hope Tabigue, GKK SoCCom)