Public School Administrators
EASTER RECOLLECTION
Theme: Prayer in the Scriptures
April 04, 2024
By Liza M. Manuben
 
The Catechetical Foundation of the Archdiocese of Manila (CFAM) recently held its yearly Public School Administrator’s Easter Recollection at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Chapel, of the Powerplant Mall, Rockwell, Makati City. The theme for this year's recollection was "Prayer in the Scriptures" in commemoration of the "Year of Prayer" celebrated by the Universal Church. Rev. Fr. Rolando Garcia Jr., the Episcopal Vicar of the Archdiocese of Manila and Chaplain of the Sacred Heart Chapel was the speaker for this year's recollection.
The event began with the registration of participants in the chapel's lobby, CFAM personnel and catechists from the Makati area assisted and served as ushers for the event. Each participant received a bookmark with Bible verses upon registration that they also used in the opening liturgy.
The creative opening liturgy was led by CFAM catechists, who set a prayerful atmosphere to begin the prayer activity. The participants were invited to write a prayer of gratitude that they later offered and pin at the tolle wrapped under the Paschal Candle. Sr. Gemma Dy, DM. and Sir Roque Palero, catechetical coordinators of CFAM, served as hosts for the event. Fr. Kim Joshua N. Bibon, CFAM priest-in-charge delivered the opening remarks and extended a warm welcome to participants in his address. It was a very special occasion for Fr. Kim who is also celebrating his birthday on the same day.
Fr. Rolly Garcia Jr. commenced his presentation by outlining the agenda of his talk, which includes; the positive impact of prayer, the five Bible verses about the power of prayer, and his insights on enriching one's prayer life. He listed the five advantages of prayer;
1. Prayers strengthen the connection with God,
2. Prayers provide guidance,
3. Prayers act as a shield against temptation,
4. Prayers assist us in embracing God’s will, and
5. Prayers allow us to express our gratitude.
Following Fr. Rolly's presentation, Dr. Imelda O. Garcia, Principal of Bonifacio Javier National High School, Mandaluyong City, expressed words of gratitude to the speaker, while Fr. Kim presented the certificate of appreciation.
To deepen the insights of the participants, a live song was rendered by Bro. Felix Canjanding, a seminarian and staff of St. Andrew Parish Makati, performed "Hesus ng Buhay ko". The participants were moved to deeper reflection with the beautiful voice and the gentle and captivating melody of the song.
The second part of the program was the workshop sharing by the participants following the synodal way of conversation. The group was divided into small groups with five members each. It was also during this time that the snack was served and souvenir for the event was given.  Bro. Felix serenaded them once more with the song "Lead Me Lord" while they were on a break. Following the refreshments, the participants engaged in a faith-sharing session, guided by three questions aimed at reflection and discussion.
Sr. Gemma Dy, DM, facilitated the workshop sharing. 
The Sacrament of Reconciliation was also made available during this time and it was notable that a good number of participants lined up for the confession. 
The day culminated with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided by Fr. Kim with Fr. Rolly as the concelebrant. It was a regular community mass and Fr. Rolly gladly introduced the participants to the Rockwell Chapel community who responded with warm applause. 
In his homily, Fr. Kim reflected on the Gospel of St. Luke 24:35-48, in which Jesus appeared to His disciples and greeted them with "Peace be with you." He highlighted the Jewish Rabbi's perspective on the two stages of peace-making, emphasizing the importance of both parties agreeing to unity.
trouble and desolation, emphasizing the significance of the words "Peace be with you" in pacifying restless hearts and souls.
The event concluded with group picture taking, distribution of certificates, and lunch meals to the participants.
It was a spiritually nourishing day, and once again a greater bond between the public school administrator and the catechetical ministry was strengthened.