#jul 2016

According to Bro. Anthony, the first speaker from the organization of the event, discussed the addiction of youth to computer games and pointed out they should be more addicted to Christ rather than the latter. As he remarked, “Adik sa Diyos, kaya malamang huhulihin ka ni Lord.”

Rev. Msgr. Rigoberto De Guzman, Vicar General of the Diocese of Antipolo was introduced in behalf of Bishop Emeritus Gabriel V. Reyes. The delegates shared their personal experiences and raised questions to him. Rev. Msgr. De Guzman advised the youth that “the happiest person in the world is the one who serves the Lord.”

Despite his absence, Bishop Emeritus Gabriel V. Reyes was able to encourage the thousands of delegates to live a life of service to God through a video message.

Two former delegates who attended the World Youth Day were introduced to share a very inspiring experience on their journey as delegates. “It was really a fun and an exciting experience, though it’s expensive but it’s worth it,” said one.

Delegates in Poland shared their experiences to the local participants on how the celebration changed their lives via a Skype call. “Unang tapak ko pa lang sa venue ng event naramdaman ko na agad ang presensya Niya.”

An activity called “World Café: Make Your Own Newspaper” was done in the following morning allowing the delegates to say their realizations. The program ended with a Eucharistic Celebration.

John Francis Simeon, SSHSC President, said, “The event was very refreshing especially to one’s soul, heart, and mind.” Simeon also stated: “If it’s a calling from God, go for it, kasi bibihira nalang ang nabibigyan ng oportunidad na bigyan ng ganitong pagkakataon.”

For those who want to join the next WYD, Simeon quoted, “If you’re given a chance to join this event, take it because it’s worth it, because you’re going to learn values that can reinstate your mind, heart, and soul into good.”

The Grand Pyromusical Exhibition and Kids’ Concert was held to celebrate the anniversary of Japan and Philippines’ 60 years of friendship. The show was sponsored by Japanese philanthropist Mr. Kenji Mori and was attended by representatives of the Embassy of Japan including the Consul General and Minister for General Affair Mr. Jiroyuki Uchida, and Mr. and Mrs. Yokoyama, among others.

Different schools were invited to perform in the Kids’ Concert. Among them was Our Lady of Peace School’s Glee Club, known as the OLPSian Blue Nightingales. They sang their own rendition of Kapag Tumibok ang Puso, Youth, and Circle of Life.

The chorale is honoured to be given the privilege to perform in such event, as said by the Glee Club President, Cassie Escoto. “We’re happy to perform in such an esteemed event and be able to bring the school’s name with us. We hope to do more appearances in events like this again,” Escoto said.