Mission Gathering 2026: Shining for Jesus - Discovering My Identity in God’s Mission
FEB 28
Mission Gathering 2026: Shining for Jesus - Discovering My Identity in God’s Mission
1 Peter 2:9 says, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.”
On February 28, 2026, several grade school and junior high school students from Manresa School went to the school of St. Peter the Apostle located in Paco, Manila, for the Mission Gathering event with the theme, “Shining for Jesus: Discovering My Identity in God’s Mission.” The students representing Manresa School were accompanied by Ms. Caren Rodriguez and Ms. Imelda Solivet. Everyone gathered as one Christ-centered family with other schools and communities. As we connected closer with God, we were able to strengthen our relationships with each other. The program was hosted for schools around the Philippines to gather so that we can get to know each other more and deepen our faith. This event was planned not just for us to meet new friends, but also to learn how to appreciate our blessings and use them to serve others.
The program formally started with a doxology prayer through a heartfelt song and dance and the Philippine national anthem which were both led by delegates from the Immaculate Conception College of Balayan Inc. It was followed by a fun activity where each group of school delegates had to shout "Shine for Jesus" and their creative chants when their school names were called. Afterwards, we listened attentively to three inspiring speakers: Msgr. Esteban U. Lo, LRMS, Ms. Imelda Solivet, and Bro. Juan Carlos Libiran. Then, a quick Shine, Jesus, Shine dance intermission took place. Everyone participated in an engaging activity wherein each attendee received a tag with a specific saint on it which determined who we would be grouped with. Each group consisted of fifteen members from different schools. We answered two reflection questions through a meaningful sharing and came up with a creative output for a randomly picked presentation.
Not only did we feel the love of each other, but also the Holy Spirit’s presence. Each activity was a lesson to serve others rather than being served. The values we learned helped shape everyone's perspectives on how we should view the world and people around us. The gathering that started off as a calling ended with realizations and understanding of what God has called us to do in our lives and that we should always choose what is right. Overall, this gathering strengthened our belief in God and this day will remain as a joyful, unforgettable, and sacred memory for everyone.
To conclude the event, a Holy Mass was conducted to reflect on everything that happened within the day. This Mission Gathering was not just like any ordinary interschool event, but a meaningful experience which united different student bodies across the country to discover and embrace our true identity. It serves as a testament to God’s unfailing love and mercy. This experience proved that diversity strengthens unity and that uniqueness is what makes us connected to each other as one. Despite our differences, we still shine together equally in God's eyes. It taught us that through carrying His mission, it's not the hardships that matter, but how we persevere through them and how they shape our character and mindset. We should aspire to reach our goals with the values of unity, harmony, and equality. Let us be inspired by this experience that we may continue to shine for Jesus and embrace our true selves through His mission.
