By: Jo-ana Minese D. Dulfo, GS Faculty
The Grade School community of Sacred Heart School—Ateneo de Cebu celebrated the feast of the Holy Child Jesus, the Sr. Sto. Niño, on January 16, 2025, at the Magis Eagles Arena through a eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr. Irmo Valeza of the Society of Jesus. The holy mass commenced with a rhythmic colloquy of drumbeats and devotion as Sinulog dancers from the high school department entered the arena. This cultural procession, followed by the usual procession of altar servers and priests, set the tone of the festivity.
During the homily, the grade school pupils and teachers, dressed in their Sinulog shirts and attire, were reminded to cultivate childlike faith and qualities. According to Fr. Irmo, Ateneo Hearters can embody childlike values and traits similar to those of Sr. Sto. Niño by being kind, generous, and humble. The grade schoolers wore their faith on their sleeves as they raised and swayed their hands to the rhythm of the Bato Balani sa Gugma song. The holy mass concluded with the traditional Sinulog dance and chant led by Mr. Rick Flores. The community’s collective faith was evident in the heartfelt shout of ‘Pit Senyor’ from the children, teachers, and even parents whenever Mr. Flores recited a petition that resonated with them.
Finally, the winners of the Sto. Niño Vocal Solo Competition: Jay Francis Nathaniel Zafra, Agatha Pauleen Bautista, and Sofia Andrea Paciencia each offered a song tribute to the Holy Child Jesus, with every note reflecting the love and mercy of Sr. Sto. Niño. As we delve into the heart of this year’s theme: “Sto. Niño: Hope of the Pilgrim Church”, may we always trust and adore Sr. Sto. Niño as an innocent young boy who soothes us in our struggles and a miraculous child who whispers hope for a future that is full of possibilities and goodness. Ad majorem Dei Gloriam!
