Commit
“With love greater than fear”. As a coordinator for an advocacy campaign for indigenous people against a powerful political family, those lines struck me. Loving in its real essence endures and hopes all things. … loving is to hold on and to hope, to commit.
Ces Turrecha
Jesuit Volunteer Batch 35
Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan
Casiguran, Aurora
Bayanihan
I thought that needy communities always needed monetary compensation before they get to work. But as a community organizer for livelihoods, I realized that even if they ran out of money and resources, they would still hold strong as one community, because they live to help one another. Aside from ensuring that each of the 20 barangays I handle are generating income, I have to help cultivate the spirit of “bayanihan” in each one.
John Francia
Jesuit Volunteer Batch 35
Bantay Kalikasan Green Initiative
Basey, Western Samar
Service is action
Service is action, more than words. One offers it as a humble self-offering for the common good like how I am with the young Aetas here in Zambales. Service is giving one’s self despite limitations. I found out so many things about myself as a volunteer with the Aeta youth. I realized that I’m in the right path and I will always be thankful for this journey.
Adel Gonzaga
Jesuit Volunteer Batch 35
Holy Spirit Aeta Mission
Capas, Tarlac
God is always there
I have learned things I would not have learned from the corporate world. As a volunteer teachers, I understand better now why our country has education problems. I realized that a lot of people need help. With all the difficulties, I know that God is always there. As a volunteer, I have come to appreciate the little things that I took for granted.
Lennard Laya
Jesuit Volunteer Batch 35
Maryknoll Academy of Cateel
Cateel, Davao Oriental