By: Ms. Shylene Marie T. Lumbab (GS Faculty)
“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Mt 19:14.)
Saint Matthew’s words resonate deeply with the school event held on October 15 and 16, 2025, at the Cor Jesu Oratory of Sacred Heart School – Ateneo de Cebu. The Grade 3 pupils joyfully received their First Holy Communion, a sacred milestone marking the beginning of their fuller participation in the Church, as they received the Body of Christ for the very first time. The celebration took place in three batches: Batch 1 (Grodecz and Rodriguez) in the morning of October 15, presided over by Rev. Michael Pineda, SJ; Batch 2 (Miki and Colombiere) in the afternoon of October 15, presided over by Rev. Fr. Irmo Valeza, SJ; and Batch 3 (Arrowsmith and Grades 4-6 communicants) on October 16, presided over by Rev. Fr. Gilbert Emmanuel Levosada, SJ.
Although all preparations for this sacred celebration were carefully made, certain adjustments became necessary due to the effects of the 6.9 magnitude earthquake that struck northern Cebu. Despite these challenges, the spirit of Magis—doing more for the greater glory of God—remained strong. The community’s determination to celebrate the sacrament never faltered. The original schedule and batches proceeded as planned, demonstrating that even when the earth trembles, faith in Christ stands firm.
More than just a ceremony, the First Communion became a living testament to hope, resilience, and love rooted in God. It beautifully revealed the true meaning of Communion: receiving Christ and striving to become Christlike through love and service. In gratitude and generosity, the first communicants, together with their families, shared their blessings by donating to the Blue Plate Project, a feeding initiative supporting undernourished pupils in the school’s partner community. Through this act, the heart of the Eucharist—a communion of love and sharing—was powerfully expressed.
Looking back on this sacred event, our hearts overflow with gratitude, faith, and hope. The light of Christ shines brightly in our young communicants, reminding us that faith cannot be shaken, compassion never runs dry, and God’s love remains steadfast amid life’s tremors. May our young Ateneo Hearters’ first encounter with Jesus in the Eucharist inspire them to receive Him often, live with compassion and service, and remain unwavering in faith, grounded in the unshakable love of God.
