I am now part of a larger network of people than the seminary where I came from and even larger than my home diocese. Deciding to be a JVP volunteer is one of the right choices I made after I have decided to have a break from he seminary. Di ako nagsisi na mamumuhay muna sa labas ng seminaryo. I guess God has led me here not to keep me away from Him but to teach me things that I have been praying for. He has continued to bless me despite my unworthiness. Indeed, grace is gratuitous. Being in this network makes me more grateful for what I have right now. JVP alumni have been very gracious and welcoming.

They do not hesitate to share the blessings they received as they also know that they were also helped by generous people during their JVP year/s. A cycle of generous people indeed. Hearing stories from my batchmates helps me to be more grounded in mission. We may have different missions and areas, but we are all united by the core values of JVP. We may have different struggles in varying degrees, yet we know that we are not alone. Having the midyear activity after the so-called "adjustment phase" helped us volunteers to unwind, relax and enjoy and most especially, to step back and reflect outside the mission area on the missions given to us.

Ate Ann, B19, one of my supervisors, reminded me of this. My mission area is not perfect. There are times that I do not understand the policies, but I am reminded of what Ate Ann always says to me, "Huwag mo hanapin ang sarap ng donut sa butas nito. Kasi di mo talaga mahahanap." I just need to remind myself that I am doing my mission not only for SFI but most especially for the people I am serving and asked to administer to. Fiat voluntas Sua (His will be done.)

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The Sun Crew
by Cheska Abella, JVP Batch 43

If I were to describe our zonals experience in one phrase, it would be "full of wonders". Firstly, I am surprised by the bountiful energy that my co-volunteers and I had in store for this trip. For us Siargao volunteers, our weekend journey started with an almost 9-hour travel to Agusan del Sur. Despite the exhaustion, we still managed to wake up early in the morning, go to various places, and go through a jam-packed schedule. We were fortunate to have visited two of the many wonders here in Mindanao, Bega Falls and Enchanted River, to witness and experience its majestic natural beauty.

Of course, our zonals wouldn't be complete without our kumustahan sessions and it was indeed a key highlight for me because I got to hear about my batchmates' experiences. While we had different assignments, shared stories alongside the input we received from our formators helped me on how I can be better in my mission.

The wonder that stood out most is knowing that our trip was made possible because of the charitable hearts of former JVPs who sponsored our sumptuous meals and other travel expenses. I am truly awed by magnanimity of the JVP spirit of generosity. We owe this joy to our Ates and Kuyas. They inspire me to pay it forward as well in the future when I (hopefully) graduate officially as JVP.