𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥-𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 (𝐒𝐁𝐓𝐓) ON THE 𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗔𝗚 𝗖𝘂𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘂𝗺, HELD AT MARY HELP OF CHRISTIANS SCHOOL (PAMPANGA), INC.
A huge thank you to all the private school teachers who participated with such dedication. Special thanks to our public school heads for serving as resource speakers, and to our MCAPS Officers headed by Mrs. Teresita Galang (MCAPS President), OIC-CID Chief Dr. Alma Pineda, and Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) of the Division of Mabalacat City, Dr. Maria Carmen P. Cuenco, for their invaluable support. See you again tomorrow, dear educators!
PEC GRATITUDE DAY
Join us as we celebrate the gift of presence and leadership of our dear Provincial Superior, Sr. Teresita Padron, FMA, during the Provincial Educating Community Gratitude Day tomorrow, March 10, at Mary Help of Christians School (Pampanga), Inc. Let’s express our gratitude for her guidance and dedication to our community. Thank you, Jesus, for Sr. Tita!
PICTURE – PERFECT DAY
Today was a picture-perfect day at MHCS as we captured unforgettable moments with our MHCians and Salesian Educators for this year’s class picture-taking! Sharing those beautiful smiles with everyone!
MHCS – 2ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Thank you to all our ECCG and Parent Homeroom Officers who attended our 2nd General Assembly last Saturday, March 2. Your presence and dedication to our educating community are truly appreciated.
FIRST HOLY COMMUNION (GRADE 3 AND UP)
Sharing some photos from the beautiful gathering this morning of the parents and our dear MHCians. The special recollections were held in preparation for the upcoming First Holy Communion of our Grade 3 students and some from Grades 4-7. The activity concluded with a Holy Mass, where our MHCians and their parents gathered together to celebrate the gift of the Eucharist. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all parents who attended the recollection, showing their commitment to their children’s spiritual growth and development. Our sincere thanks to the class advisers, Ms. Janine Rivera and Mr. Edward Bugayong, and their CLE teachers, Sr. Joy, Panoso, FMA, and Sr. Shane Orpilla, FMA, to Fr. Larry Tan, SDB, and all those who contributed to making these recollections a truly enriching and memorable experience for our MHCians and their parents.
POPE’S DAY
Today at our morning assembly, we celebrated Pope’s Day in honor of Pope Francis, our Holy Father. It was followed by a good-day talk about Pope Francis’ role as the Vicar of Christ and his message of love, mercy, and compassion. Our MHCians joyfully waved the flags they had brought, and special lessons about Pope Francis were emphasized in CLE classes. Long Live the Pope!
RECOLLECTION & ORIENTATION OF FIRST COMMUNICANTS
In preparation for the 1st Holy Communion of the Grade 3 MHCians and a few from Grades 4-6, a recollection and orientation meeting was held for their parents on Saturday, February 25, 2023 at the MHCS Gym. The day began with an opening prayer led by Mrs. Nina Marie Pojas. It was followed by a short talk given by Sr. Pinky Garza, FMA, MHCS Principal, which centered on the importance of the spiritual milestone that the 1st Communion is and the role of the parents to continue to nurture the faith life of their children. She also talked about the guidelines to follow for the safe and ordely conduct of the1st Communion on March 4 at San Raphael Arkanghel Parish. Sr. Pinky’s talk was followed by the recollection proper which was facilitated by Rev. Fr. Abel de Ocampo, SDB who came all the way from Don Bosco Batulao. He beautifully and profoundly led the parents in deepening their understanding of their indispensable role in the spiritual formation of their children. A Mass celebrated by Fr. Abel completed the grace-filled event. Thank you to Sr. Shane Orpilla, FMA (Grade 3 CLE Teacher) for coordinating the activity.
ASH WEDNESDAY
Grateful for the sacred gathering earlier today in our school gym, marking the start of Lent with a solemn Ash Wednesday Mass presided by Fr. Bok Nicolas, SDB. We pray that this season of reflection and renewal brings us closer to our faith and each other.
ACADEMIC & BOOK WEEK
The BOOK and MOVIE CHARACTER Parade was one of the highlights of the Academic and Book Week. Every MHCian and Salesian Educator gave life to a favorite or well-loved personage. Check out this video for those who were the BEST in their grade levels! Congratulations to all!
BOSCOLYMPICS AWARDING
Celebrating the Feast of Don Bosco! “In whatever you do, think of the glory of God as your main goal.” Let’s embrace these words from Don Bosco and strive for goodness and purpose in our actions. Happy Feast Day, Salesian Family!
3RD PARENTS’ FORMATION / ISSUANCE OF 2ND QUARTER REPORT CARDSWORD OF GOD CAMP WITH HOLY MASS
The 3rd Parents’ formation for the SY 2022 – 2023 in MHCS last January 29, 2023 was a truly grace-filled opportunity for the parents, guardians, parents volunteer catechists and past pupils to deepen the Strenna for 2023 of the Rector Major, the Head of the Salesian Family in the world. Thanks to Rev. Fr. Joel N. Camaya, SDB, Rector of Don Bosco College – Canlubang, who came all the way from his place of assignment in Laguna to Pampanga in order to share his thoughts and insights on the Strenna. In Italian, the word strenna means “gift or present.” Each year, the Rector Major comes up with it addressed to the Salesian Family and it guides the Salesian Family’s journey for the year. The 2023 Strenna is aptly directed to the groups who attended Fr. Camaya’s presentation: “As the yeast in today’s human family: The lay dimension in the family of Don Bosco.” The formation encounter concluded with the Holy Mass, and the parents’ encounter with their children’s class advisers to receive the report cards for the 2nd quarter.
BOSCOLYMPICS
The Boscolympics 2024 concluded with a holy mass honoring our founder, St. John Bosco. The day featured impressive performances by various bands, showcasing their singing and musical talents. Excitement soared during a basketball match involving students, teachers, service drivers, and support personnel. As the day wrapped up, the students gathered together for the most-awaited awarding ceremony, recognizing the efforts of each student regardless of the outcome. Surely, the MHCians enjoyed this year’s Boscolympics! Let us always remember St. John Bosco’s saying, “Run, jump, play, make noise, but do not sin.” Special thanks to the documentation team for this year’s Boscolympics.
YALE MODEL UNITED NATIONS
MHCS Pampanga is proud to announce the participation of our exceptional delegates from Grades 9 and 10, accompanied by our esteemed school directress, Sr. Lyn S. Yap, FMA, and Mrs. Jasmin Mallari, Assistant Principal, in the upcoming YMUN 50. Your prayers and support mean the world as they represent us on a global stage, engaging in meaningful discussions about pressing international issues. The Yale Model United Nations (YMUN) conference is a pivotal event that promises a transformative experience and serves as a unique platform for students to engage in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, foster collaboration, and broaden their perspectives on global issues. The event is scheduled to take place from January 18–21, 2024, at Yale University in New Haven, CT, USA. This opportunity not only reflects our commitment to academic excellence but also showcases the social responsibility instilled in our MHCians. Together, let’s wish them success in this enriching experience!
RECOGNITION OF SHS – 1ST SEMESTER AWARDEES
The Senior High School Academic Awardees for the 1st Semester joyfully and proudly received their Certificates of Recognition during the awarding rites held today, January 19, 2024, at the morning assembly. Accompanied by their proud parents, guardians, and teachers, the awardees took the stage amidst applause and admiration. Congratulations to our diligent students for their remarkable accomplishments! Keep up the excellent work, and may your future endeavors be as bright as today’s achievements!
CHRISTMAS CANTATA
Applause echoed as our students, under the guidance of our brilliant director, Tito Felix Delos Santos brought to life “The Story of the First Christmas”. Our MHCians brought the spirit of the season to life through soul-stirring, timeless Christmas songs and enchanting tableau, weaving together the timeless tale of joy, hope, and the miracle of Christmas. As we reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, let the melodies and images from last night linger in our hearts, reminding us of the beauty and wonder that this season brings. To everyone who joined us in this celebration, your presence added immeasurable warmth to the occasion. Thank you for sharing in the joy and magic of the Christmas season with us!
COMMUNITY VISIT OF SR. TERESITA PADRON, FMA
Sr. Tita’s presence brought joy and blessings as she made heartfelt encounters with the various sectors of our community. Grateful for the wisdom and inspiration she shared; our spirits are uplifted and our bonds strengthened. Truly, her visit was a source of joy and grace for us all. Thank you, dear Sr. Tita
RED WEDNESDAY
Embracing the power of unity and compassion on this Red Wednesday, our school community gathered this morning for a special prayer service—a profound moment that transcended classrooms and corridors. A sea of red enveloped us as the MHCians, FMA Sisters, teachers, and staff adorned themselves in this symbolic hue—a poignant reminder of solidarity with those facing persecution for their faith, particularly Christians around the world.
CAREER AND PROFESSION AWARENESS WEEK
The MHCS (Pampanga) in-campus and virtual rooms looked like a Business and City Center as MHCians participated in the Launching Activity “Wear Your Dream” Day. Dressing up as their dream Professions and Vocations, MHCians really slayed the ‘Parade of Vocations’. After the General Assembly, Nursery to Grade 2 learners had fun playing with the Career ABCs and Grades 9 to 10 were given Interests Tests as a guide in knowing the career that they might excel. On the 2nd and 3rd Day of the celebration, Grade 3 to 12 MHCians learned about the fundamentals of Career Decisions through the different Module Orientations given by the GuidanceNGO. And as a preparation of the Graduating MHCians, a Career Orientation from the different Universities and Colleges were participated by the Grade 12 learners. Mapua University, Enderun Colleges, Holy Angel University, and Angeles University Foundation participated in the said activity. What a meaningful and fun celebration of the Career Week. Up and Away MHCians!
GRATITUDE DAY
Gratitude is in full bloom at our educating community’s Gratitude Day celebration! Thankful for every FMA Sister, Salesian educator, parent, student, staff, and support personnel who make our learning community thrive, especially our school directress, Sr. Lyn S. Yap, FMA.
CLE WEEK (CATECHETICAL AND VOCATIONS WEEK)
The theme for this year’s celebration of National Catechetical Month is “Revitalizing the Gifts of Being, Becoming, and Belonging to the Ministry of Catechists” in recognition of the catechists’ contributions to the growth of the church. Our celebration of Catechetical and Vocation Week enabled the members of our educating community to learn more about the value of the church’s teaching ministry and to show gratitude to those who serve as catechists for the Christian community. It was a beautiful time for reflection and expressing our faith. We gained a deeper appreciation for sacred Scripture, traditions, and how they apply to our modern lives. The activities organized by the CLE teachers helped us to live more faithfully as disciples of Jesus Christ in our day-to-day activities, especially through a life of prayer and loving service. We are all challenged to be witnesses to the faith, but more importantly, this celebration is a call to all of us who are responsible for the work of evangelization.
ASSEMBLY MASS FOR SOLEMNITY OF MAMA MARY’S BIRTHDAY
Happy Birthday, Mama Mary! Thank you for being our most loving Mother and for constantly leading us to your Son, Jesus!
BUWAN NG WIKA AT KASAYSAYAN
Ang Buwan ng Wika at Kasaysayan ay ginugunita taon-taon tuwing Agosto. Layon nitong pagtibayin, at maipalaganap ang kamalayan sa pagdiriwang at kahalagahan ng Wikang Filipino at ng ating mayamang kasaysayan. Kaisa ng buong sambayanang Pilipino ang MHCS-Pampanga sa pagdiriwang na ito. Maligayang Buwan ng Wika at Kasaysayan!
SOLEMNITY OF THE ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
The Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary serves as a reminder of Mary’s special role in our salvation. She is honored not only for being chosen to be the mother of Jesus, but also for being the first disciple, serving as a shining beacon of faith for all of us. Her entrance into Heaven foreshadows our own hope of enjoying the same eternal life. Happy Feast Day!
INSTITUTE DAY
One hundred fifty-one years ago, St. Mary Domenica Mazzarello said “YES” to the call of God and brought forth the Institute of the Daughters of Mary, Help of Christians. Now, over a century later, this Institute has taken a thousand steps from its humble beginnings in Mornese and currently exists all over the globe to accompany the young. Thank you so much to our dearest FMA Sisters, who are the heart of this event, for everything you do to ensure that every moment at MHCS-Pampanga is worthwhile. Each of us will definitely carry your lessons with us as we journey the roads ahead toward God’s call for us.
SALESIAN LOCAL WORLD YOUTH DAY
90 delegates, including students, some teachers, and FMA sisters from MHCS (Pampanga), participated in the Salesian Local World Youth Day (SLWYD), held at Don Bosco Technical Institute Makati on August 6, 2023. Centered on the theme “Mary Arose and went with Haste”, young people from different Salesian settings came together to celebrate the gift of faith, accepting the call to say YES to serve God and His people and share the good news with the world. From thought-provoking sharing’s and a variety of performances to the solemn Eucharistic Celebration, the event was a true testament to solidarity and the potential of our youth to make a positive impact in the world. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with laughter, friendship, and shared dreams, truly captured the essence of World Youth Day. This experience inspired our MHCS-Pampanga Salesian Youth Leaders to carry out more youthful and Christ-centered activities inspired by the Salesian charism of St. John Bosco and St. Mary Mazzarello. Looking forward to the next SLWYD in 2027!
NUTRITION MONTH CELEBRATION
Every July, we celebrate Nutrition Month to raise Filipinos’ awareness of the value of good nutrition. Schools and workplaces, like Mary Help of Christians School (Pampanga), Inc., participate in the celebration to inform and educate members on the steps we can take to improve our dietary habits. This celebration, along with the other activities, teaches us that with a bit of effort, affordable and healthy eating is possible. It feels so great to know that our school, with the help of our parents and Salesian educators, worked hand in hand to make this event a success. Truly, collaboration is still the most effective force for every institution to triumph in its endeavors.