Photo by : Eliana Patio and Patricia Sioson
On December 19 to 20, Grades 9 to 12 of Assumption Antipolo celebrated 2017’s vigil entitled “AgApe: Blessed, Broken, Shared!” which aimed to help the students recognize God’s plans for them and to acknowledge agape to understand the significance of being blessed and sharing these gifts to others.
One of the activities for this youth gathering was the Youth Praise led by a youth organization which performed some Christian songs for everyone to join in and praise the Lord. There were also groups called “Communities of Life” (COL) wherein Grade 9 was partnered with Grade 11 while Grade 10 was partnered with Grade 12 to bond and learn from each other through the different centers included in the program. The students also signed up for talks on different advocacies such as those of the Cenacle Sisters, Silid–Aralan, and Alab to help fulfill their missions as God’s stewards.
As the sun started to set, the vigil began with the procession. The students prepared for the coming of Jesus Christ through the adoration, confession and other “sacred space” activities, including meditation, prayer, and art.
For the following day, the dawn mass was celebrated to end the vigil. The students and teachers found it a renewing experience for all of them and a great way to prepare for Jesus’ coming.