The month of June is not simply a back-to-school routine for our college seminarians or an eternity of homesickness for those who have just entered our seminary. This month, they engaged in different activities before formally setting their pens on paper.

Refocus, Retreat, Relax

Seminarians from 1st year to 4th year levels held their annual Refocusing for two days on June 2 and 3. It was an activity of waking up to the reality that they are already back in the seminary (Sorry, brothers, vacation is over!). It was facilitated by Fr. Rey who reminded them to UPROOT themselves from where they came from. Back-to-back with the Refocusing was their retreat facilitated by Fr. Joey de Leon, SJ (do not mistake him for the Eat Bulaga host).  The three days of spiritual renewal took place from June 4 to 6.  Our brothers have indeed received so many blessings right at the start of the school year.  It was a decisive moment for them to refocus themselves on their chosen vocation.

After the ‘holy,’ activities, they chilled out for two days (June 12-13) in San Juan, Batangas, which is rumored to be the same place where Judy Ann and Ryan Agoncillo held their wedding reception. It was good to refresh ourselves before the ‘agony.’  But do not worry, brothers.  Learning is fun!

Mass of the Holy Spirit and Blessing of the New Kitchen

On June 15, the Mass of the Holy Spirit was held to formally open the School Year 2009-2010, with Fr. Ivo Anselmi, presiding. The blessing of the newly renovated kitchen followed. Elevator-like refrigerators, new utensils, and enhanced washing and cleaning areas which provided improved services were a delight for the eyes. The kitchen is now cool and clean (C2).  Expect the collegians to have increased appetites this year!

Below is the statistics for this year’s enrollment: (Special thanks to Dab Anthony Obong and Joseph Pingkian for the information)

Legend:
MI - Order of the Ministers of the Infirm – Camillians
CRSP - Clerics Regular of St. Paul – Barnabites
CSJBP - St. John the Baptist the Precursor
PACEM - Pastoral Assistance on Community Education Mission
FDP - Sons of Divine Providence
SC - Sons of Charity
SMQA - Servants of Mary Queen of the Apostles