by Ms. Eva Mae A. Canoy
GS CLF Coordinator
The Grade 3 pupils received for the first time the Body and Blood of Christ in the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. This significant milestone in the Christian life of these pupils happened last November 21-22, 2024 at the Cor Jesu Oratory. The first communicants were divided into three batches: (1) Grade 3 Arrowsmith and Rodriguez; (2) Grade 3 Grodecz and Miki; and (3) Grade 3 Colombiere along with selected first communicants from Grades 4 and 5.
The first communicants exemplified the appropriate disposition that made the sacred celebration truly remarkable and worthwhile. They sang their hearts out as they sing the mass songs with their angelic voices. They, too, recited the responses and prayers with conviction, professing their trust and faith in God. The long wait was over when the first communicants received the holy bread together with their supportive and loving parents.
The solemn and successful celebrations for all three batches were presided over by the Jesuit fathers, Fr. Mike Pineda, SJ (Batch 1), Fr. Irmo Valeza, SJ (Batch 2), and Fr. Nono Levosada, SJ (Batch 3). The central theme of the homilies revolves around the sacred meal’s significance and the value of its spiritual experience to those who receive Jesus through the holy bread. For He said, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever.” (John 6:51)
To also highlight, the love offerings during the First Communion masses will be donated to the Blue Plate Project, the school’s feeding program designed to give free meals to the students of the school’s partner communities. This act of generosity and charity proves that truly the Holy Eucharist and our mission are inseparable.
The Grade 3 First Holy Communion was more than just a ceremonial event. It was indeed a sacred occasion that reminded each attendee of the joy and significance of being part of a faith community that celebrates together in love and unity. May the celebration deepen each one’s love for Jesus and solidify his or her commitment to living out his or her Catholic faith.
