JANUARY 2016

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 l One with the Sisters 2 l From your Alumnae Board

3 l Countdown! Homecoming Day 2016 Celebrates

the CHSian as Filipina 4 l Hearts and Hands Across the

Miles 5| Deep Pride

6 l Bingo! 8 l School News: Mendiola

Consortium Christmas Gathering

9-10 l Gallery 11 l Advertisements

12-13 l E-mail Connection 14 l Into Eternal Life, Prayers,

Congratulations to…

Every year in December, members of College of the Holy Spirit Manila Alumni Foundation gather at the Convent of the Holy Spirit in Poinsettia Quezon City to share the joys of the Christmas holidays with the aging, retired, and sick sisters. The convent at Poinsettia serves as formation house for young S.Sp.S. sisters and as retirement place for older sisters and the disabled. In the afternoon of Saturday, Dec. 5 the peaceful convent was filled with music and entertainment and the clatter of voices of alumnae and guests. The program started with an inspiring prayers led by Amy Tolosa-Duremdes (HS-71) invoking the Holy Spirit to touch and mold each one of us, and to let as grow in virtue.

The sisters and alumnae watched with beaming faces and listened in awe to professional entertainers singing Broadway theater musical pieces. Chinggoy Alonzo, a seasoned theater actor now more known as a performer in TV soap operas, has been a regular part of this celebration since a few years ago. Chinggoy is the husband of Beth Bascara (HS-72).

This time he was supported by theater actors Roger Chua and a group of young artists in singing stage musical pieces from the play Marco Polo the Musical which will be staged in London in August 2016.

The merienda was enjoyed by the sisters and guests although the sisters ate very little. The alumnae helped the waiters serve the food to the sisters since many of the sisters are immobile and others are wheelchair-borne. While sharing the food donated by the alumnae and the foundation, the sisters and the alumnae had an enjoyable time in conversation. The sisters are always very happy to be visited by the alumnae and guests since it breaks the monotony of life at the tranquil convent.

A game followed the snacks. Some sisters volunteered to participate in the question and answer contest about holidays and the saints’ feast days. The program was emceed by Lalah Pascual. It was incredible how Sr. Angelina and Sr. Julita helped by Sr. Yeye participated actively.

By: Daisy Villasis-Montesa (HS-68/SChem-73)

Continued on page 7

Tel. No. (632) 735-5986

FB page: www.facebook.com/CHSAlumniFoundation

FB group: www.facebook.com/groups/chsaf

JANUARY

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FROM YOUR ALUMNAE BOARD

Adopt-a-Scholar Project - Appeal to Sponsors

It will be greatly appreciated if payments of your pledges are updated. For inquiries, please call: Ms. Cora Parco at 735-5986

WE, the Alumnae Editorial Board

Ma. Victoria B. Anastacio (HS-63/AB-67) Victoria Torres-del Rosario (HS-77)

Remedios “Tita” Dizon (HS-63) Riziel Fajutag-Icaro (AB-11)

Virginia P. Macaso (BSChem-63) Maria Corazon B. Parco (AB-63/BSE-64)

Sr. Victricia Pascasio, S.Sp.S. (HS-53/AB-57/BSE-64) Ma. Belen Elvira S. Tiongco (HS-77) Lorraine Young-Sylianteng (HS-73)

Email address: we.thealumnae@gmail.com

For more than two and a half years, the alumnae, through the CHSAF Board and Alumnae Core Group, have been negotiating with the S.Sp.S. congregation to keep our dear alma mater open. We have been working tirelessly to ensure the continuance of CHSM’s education mission. Finally in September of this year, the Congregational Leadership Team in Rome, upon the recommendation of the Provincial Leadership Team in Manila, agreed to collaborate with the alumnae to keep the school in operation. We are now in the last stage of negotiations and are hopeful that

the alumnae will take over the management of CHSM by next school year.

The road to this end has not been easy. There have been many struggles and obstacles along the way. Sometimes it felt like we were on a roller coaster going through highly emotional peaks and valleys. I remember moments when we were ecstatic and giddy, and times when we almost lost hope. What was heartwarming though was the support we got from each other. When some of us were ready to surrender in defeat, the others would

would inspire us to keep on fighting. When some of us were in tears, the others would offer warm hugs and words of encouragement to give us the strength to continue. We constantly prayed for one another and for our mission to see the school continue. We prayed to Blessed Mother Josepha, to our Mother Mary and, of course, to the Holy Spirit for courage and enlightenment. In the end what kept us going was our common desire to see CHSM continue and thrive. We remain strong because we are united in one purpose.

Unity in Purpose By: Maria Theresa Abeleda-Llave (HS-73)

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL FORM

I would like to renew my active membership in the CHS Alumnae Foundation. Enclosed is my payment (cash/check) as follows:

_______ Php500.00/US$12.00 (One-year membership) _______ Php1,000.00/US$24.00 (Two-year membership)

Name: _______________________________________ Address: _______________________________________ Tel. No. _______________________________________ E-Mail Address: __________________________________

Note: Pls. make your checks payable to: CHS ALUMNAE FOUNDATION, INC. and mail c/o The Alumnae Office, 163 E. Mendiola, Manila.

Please be reminded that Lifetime or Perpetual Membership has been cancelled since the mid-2000s. Our membership dues help sustain the CHSAF office operations and projects. Thank you.

The countdown to February 7, 2016 has begun!

It’s 25 days to go before Homecoming Day 2016 and counting.

The High School Class of ’66, the Golden Jubilarians and host of the 2016 Homecoming Day celebrations, could not be busier. Meetings, dance practices, and mini-reunions have filled personal calendars and even bumped off work commitments. We could not have coped without SMS, email, Facebook, and Viber.

But here we are, almost at the threshold of the great celebration. As the Big Day draws near, we look forward to seeing old friends, teachers’ familiar faces, unforgettable places. Each one, for sure, will have lots of stories to tell.

What’s in store? Here’s a preview.

Our Homecoming Day will carry the theme The CHSian: Proudly Filipina to signify pride in our roots, our ethnicity, and our nation and, of course, pride in our school. Pose beside a standee of the CHSian (our logo) for your first photo of

JUBILARIANS

for the Holy Mass, organized by the Emerald Jubilarians. Following the Mass, the CHS Alumnae Foundation Board will conduct the meeting of the General Assembly.

Time for the Salo-Salo!. The Sapphire Jubilarians will be preparing a feast of kare-kare, lumpiang sariwa, rellenong alimasag, and chicken barbeque amidst festive and colorful pahiyas leaves. The halo-halo finale completes the meal.

Now comes the most awaited part of the day – the moment of feeling young again through the performance of music and dance. The Program will pay tribute to Original Pilipino Music (OPM) featuring the compositions of Katy de la Cruz, VST & Co., and the Hotdogs, among others. This promises to be hilarious and fun as the Jubilarian classes perform one after another – trying to outdo each other!

Finally, a short video on the CHSian’s journey and the singing of the Alma Mater Song will cap the Program.

Halina! Tayo na! Tara na!

the day, as “she” welcomes you to the campus.

Keep on catching precious moments with photos!

Street scenes of Escolta, Luneta, and Quiapo have been prepared by the Coral Jubilarians to provide the proper ambience for your nostalgic trip to the past. You can pose for a selfie or groufie beside Mang Sorbetero or the ubiquitous magtataho. Yes, vendors will roam the campus to tempt you with all the good eats of yesteryears – ballot/penoy/itlog na maalat, kesong puti, suman at iba pa – delightful local flavors long before we became addicted to pizza. Enjoy these treats as you mingle with classmates and challenge your memory with remembering their names. This is the right time for class photos.

A ukulele band, courtesy of the Ruby Jubilarians, will beckon in front of the auditorium. Enjoy the purity of the sound of this tiny stringed instrument before we finally assemble at 10 am

REGISTRATION 8:00

PHOTO SHOOT – PER JUBILARIAN CLASS – AUDITORIUM STEPS 8:30-9:30

PHOTO SHOOT – ALL JUBILARIAN CLASS –

AUDITORIUM STEPS 9:30-9:45

HOLY MASS - AUDITORIUM

CHSAF GENERAL ASSEMBLY – AUDITORIUM

10:00-11:00

11:00-12:00

LUNCH BUFFET – THE GYM 12:00-2:00

PROGRAM – AUDITORIUM 2:00-4:00

PROGRAM OF ACTIVITIES

By: Carolina de los Santos-Guina (HS-66/AB/BSE-71)

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There are ties that bind and ties that stifle… ties that snap at the slightest tug and ties that withstand the test of time and weight. And yet there is that unique tie borne out of many years of shared experiences in school, ephemeral at times, that oftentimes trumps even the bonds of family and blood lines. School ties take on a special significance, sometimes supplanting familial bonds, for people who have up-rooted themselves to begin a new life in a foreign land. This is so true of the CHSNAF (CHS North America Foundation, Inc.) group of alumnae – alumnae living in the US and Canada. Many of us kept track of one another throughout the years of raising families and building lives. Some took a more deliberate way of seeking out old classmates through social media while still others just stumbled into each

By: Deanna Go Bio (AB-58/BSC-59)

skills and values instilled in us to always do the right thing the right way, prodded on by the “can-do” spirit imbued in us to take on challenges, we landed, surveyed the landscape and, in time, established ourselves as leading members in our communities. We strived and we thrived. While we have embedded ourselves and our families in the culture and mores of our new country, we, nonetheless, yearn for the familiar comfort of places and people we left behind. We look back with gratitude to the school that nurtured us, taught us, and prepared us to be good human beings. With our feet planted firmly in one end of the earth, we extend our hands across the miles and keep our hearts tightly bound to the spiritual mother who has given us the wisdom and fortitude to live life fearlessly with integrity and compassion.

FEATURE

other serendipitously. Whichever way we found each other, the ensuing reunion is almost always festive and joyous. Every reunion, grand or small, planned or spontaneous, is a cause for celebration among us. Because it gives us the opportunity to renew ties, to catch up with one another’s life, and most of all, to reminisce about the “good ol’ days” spent in Mendiola. Without exception, each story, however trite, is told with great affection and zest. Barriers of class, course, and year come down and every one becomes one – united in the common bond of that special brand of S.Sp.S. training rooted in faith, service, and excellence. Our Alma Mater has reasons to be proud of us, her daughters who left the comfort and safety of home and country to venture out to the unknown. Armed with the set of

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Order or Reserve your Homecoming Lunch tickets now. Call the CHSAF office: 735-5986. Look for Cora Parco or Rei Icaro

By: Chi Panistante (BFA-84)

My cousin visited Dubai in February and

casually mentioned the Mama Sita Stamp Design Competition 2015. The competition was initiated by the Mama Sita Foundation to preserve the legacy of Teresita “Mama Sita” Reyes in the propagation of authentic Philippine cuisine.

At that time, I was busy with design work for clients. There was hardly time to do other things. But I thought to myself, why not?

The required artwork is not too big, a little over the size of an A3 paper. The topic is interesting, “Championing Filipino Flavour around the World.” The sponsor, Mama Sita, is a food company known all over the world. And as always with me, there has to be a clincher, in this case, the use of the artwork in a commemorative stamp! I loved the idea of the final output.

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So I designed two entries which I appropriately titled, Stir-Pride (as in stir-fry) and Deep Pride, yes you guess it right, for deep-fry. Corny? But hey, creativity isn’t one without fun! Both of my entries made it to the finals, but Deep Pride was chosen one of the four winning entries in the third installment of the five-year series of stamps to be issued by PHLPost.

Postmaster General Josie Dela Cruz and the Philippine Stamp Committee approved the issuance of the stamps.

The prize was Php20,000 but that wasn’t what I was after. I was after posterity. The hope that one day when snail mail is completely obliterated from the face of this planet, my winning stamp will be part of the history of PHLPost and Mama Sita.

The 2015 winning stamp artwork.

FEATURE

When my classmate Linda Cosme (HS-59/

Chem-63), who is based abroad, asked me who will play her bingo cards if she buys a ticket, I answered that one of our school scholars will play her cards. “Wow,” she said jokingly, “who can beat a scholar? I will get five tickets then.” Linda did win, although it was a raffle prize and not any of the cash prizes.

As Linda predicted, our scholars played winning cards. The P10,000 prize was won by Kristine Janelle Bautista, the P30,000 by Mary Grace Aguilar, and the grand prize of P50,000 by Rochelle Santiago for Marcie Lazaro-Tolentino (HS-72) who lives abroad.

By: Virginia “Benjo” Macaso (BSChem-63)

Food and Non-food booths

EVENTS

sandwiches, pastries, ice cream, ladies accessories, German bread, and Angel cookies filled up the mini bazaar.

The organizers led by Angie Madrid (HS-72/BSC-76) gave a big smile upon seeing the big crowd of alumnae with family members, nuns, school administrators, and Facilities personnel gathering early at the social hall to experience a day of fun and excitement.

The organizers of the event thank everyone who gave support in various ways to ensure another successful Family Bonding Bingo Day.

A cloud of apprehension hovered over the initial preparations for the event because Bingo Day, Nov. 21st, fell during the APEC weekend. We feared that many alumnae would spend the long weekend out of Metro Manila. So attendance during the big day was a pleasant surprise. Sale of vendor’s tables for the mini-bazaar was slow in the beginning when Kata Bellosillo (HS-74) and Lorraine Sylianteng (HS-73) scouted for vendors. However, interest grew steadily up to the eve of the event, when Asa Marco (CHSM President, HS-71) asked for an additional vendor’s table. Hot meals,

Third prize winners Kristine Janelle Bautista and Guia Tanchoco-

Goduco (HS-55) with Tess Llave.

Second prize winner Mary Grace Aguilar with Tess Llave.

Rochelle Santiago receiving the First prize for Marcie Lazaro-Tolentino (HS-72) from CHSAF President Tess Llave (HS-73) and emcee Grace Mascenon (HS-73)

Raffle prize winner

Scholars played the winning cards.

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A happy reunion among Guia Tanchoco-Goduco (HS-55), Remedios Ticzon-Gonzales (HS-55), Linda David-del Rosario (HS-57), and Roxane Mendoza-Belardo (HS-55).

They were profusely happy to receive the modest prizes.

A raffle was held for prizes donated by members of the CHSAF board. The raffle was followed by the distribution of loot bags filled with simple goodies to all the sisters at the convent.

Sr. Eden S.Sp.S., head of the Provincial Leadership Team, led the closing prayers and thanked the Holy Spirit for inspiration, guidance, and direction and also thanked the alumnae board for its relentless efforts and dedication to obtain acceptance of the joint CHSAF-S.Sp.S. management of the college. With much jubilation she led the audience in a chorus of “Ang Pasko ay Sumapit.”

Some sisters including Sr. Angelina, Sr. Lourdes, and Sr. Eden joined the CHSAF board members in dancing to the invigorating music. Sr. Pilar stood up, left her cane on her chair, and danced in front of her seat. Everyone was radiantly smiling and beaming with inexhaustible energy as those present danced with superb rhythm to the tunes of the ‘70s. This was one of the merriest Christmas parties at the convent.

We invite all to join us next year not only in the Christmas party for the sisters but in other events that will be sponsored by the CHSAF for CHSM, all for the love of our alma mater. Please share your talents, time, and treasure for the success of the partnership between CHSAF and the S.Sp.S. so that CHSM can continue to grow and train young people in truth and love coming from a giving heart. We wish everyone a healthy, happy, blessed, and prosperous New Year.

… continued from page 1

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The members of the Mendiola

Consortium from Centro Escolar University, College of the Holy Spirit Manila, La Consolacion College, San Beda College, and Saint Jude Catholic School took time off from their daily routines and gathered to pray, reflect, and celebrate Christmas on December 2 at the College of the Holy Spirit Manila. The event started with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Rev. Fr. Vicente Rayco, SVD with Rev. Fr. Aloysius Maranan, OSB, and Rev. Fr. Franciscus Kwalaga. It was followed by a short program celebrating the spirit of oneness, community, and solidarity.

This year’s celebration featured some of the members of CHSM performing Arts or IMPACT who sang traditional and contemporary carols to the delight of the audience. One of the event highlights was the raffle where everyone received a gift. A sumptuous early dinner was enjoyed by everyone. Words of gratitude were given by Dr. Jesusa Marco, CHSM President and host of the event,

Rev. Fr. Aloysius Maranan, OSB, SBC President, and Rev. Fr. Vicente Rayco, SVD, SJCS President and Chair of the Mendiola Consortium, with CHSM President Jesusa Marco.

In the spirit of Laudato Si, which urges all

peoples to come together to care for the earth, our ‘common home’, a thousand environmental advocates participated in the Climate Solidarity Prayer March on November 29 (Sunday), 2015. In Manila, various groups from religious organizations, youth groups, parishes, non-government organizations (NGOs), academic institutions and civil society gathered at 6 a.m. at three points: Central Bank corner Vito Cruz Street, San Andres Street corner Quirino Avenue, and in Plaza Ferguson in front of Ermita Church. At 7 a.m., the marchers departed toward Rajah Sulayman Park in front of Malate Church for an environmental awareness program which culminated with a concelebrated Mass presided over by Most Rev. Broderick Pabillo, DD, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Manila.

The event was part of the “Global Day of Action for Climate Justice” seeking a “strong and fair global climate agreement” during the 21st Conference of Parties (COP21) in Paris. It was organized by the Archdiocese of Manila – Ministry on Ecology and the Global Catholic Climate Movement (GCCM) of the Philippines.

The fight for climate justice continues! Let us “heed the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor,” and together, assert the people’s need for land, jobs, and justice.

SCHOOL NEWS

By: Felicitas “Jeff” Vito (BSE-94)

By: Felicitas “Jeff” Vito (BSE-94)

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Rev. Fr. Vicente Rayco, SVD with Rev. Fr. Aloysius Maranan, OSB, and Rev. Fr. Franciscus Kwalaga.

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Christmas Party of HS-65 last November 26, 2015 at Max’s Glorietta 3, Makati with the theme Best Christmas Costume. Standing L-R: Estrella Yoingco-Manuel, Nenita Tecson-Pilares, Lulu Maceda-delos Santos, Cielo Basco-Ilao, Lulu Nepomuceno-del Rosario, Carina Querubin-Latosa, Dina Casis-Barilea, Esther Jose-Capistrano, Vicky Aliño-Camarillo, and Vicki Jugo-Litiatco. Seated L-R: Mariquita Cardenas-Lopez and Rosalou Soriano-Lamson.

More alumni at the Bingo

Kristine Janelle Bautista (College Scholar), Enya Gomez (HS-53) and Jojie Alfonso (HS-64) .

Tina Leido (HS-79/AB-84), Sr. Guada and Weena Meily (HS-79/BSBio-83)

A high school batch 78 group celebrating Christmas in style in their winter wonderland outfit. In photo front row are: Rosbel Bunag, Salve Magante Bautista, Caroline Martin Garcia, Giselle Millar Melchor, Pinky Banzon del Rosario, Winnie Francisco Jaleco, Millette Salonga, Cora Guidote. Back row: Rhea Ballesteros Manuel, Gay Dumlao Pestano, Malu Magsalin, Rosette Santiago Hizon, Sally Quijano Paed, Chichi Bihis, Mel Ordonez Vibal, Anne San Diego, Mary Ann Bolinao Valenzuela, Elizabeth Cheng Magalit.

Alumni members of the Paraclete Foundation at their December Board meeting. From L-R: Mameng Conge-Carag (HS-49), Lucia Bacani-Quimson (HS-63/AB-67/BSC-68), Sr. Ancille, Angie Madrid (HS-72/BSC-76), Nida Laki-Vera (HS-52), Filomena Reyes-Carlos (HS-48/AB-51/BSE-5), Sr. Victricia (HS-53/AB-57/BSE-64) and Baby Padilla-Sevilla (HS-58/BSHE-62).

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HS-68 came in full force. L-R: Yola Manding-Albano, Toni Gabriel, Blandina Roque-Mababangloob, Bingle Monsayac-Lim, Nely (Yaya of Pin), Pin Cacnio, Irene Earnshaw-Reyes, and Ging Ong.

Celebrating Andrea Bondoc’s Birthday at the Shrine of St. Padre Pio in Brgy. San Pedro, Sto. Tomas, Batangas. L-R: Soledad Aquino-Hernando (AB-65/BSE-66), Sarah Hamid-Nañawa (AB-64), Andrea Bondoc (AB-65/BSE-66), Angeles Santiago (AB-65/BSE-66), Conchita Sison-Nachura (AB-65/BSE-66), and Rosalinda Sangle-San Vicente (BSMath-66)

At the HS-57 Christmas party held at the residence of Ody Arroyo last December 5, 2015. Seated are Maggie Ablaza-Macatulad, Carmen Contreras-Labrador, Evelyn Sisson-Leonin, Linda David-del Rosario, Ody Gregorio-Arroyo, Niza Soriano-Vergel de Dios, Nina Pineda-Galang, and Pilar Garcia-Aldanese; standing: Edna Itchon-Llamanzares, Lulu Abellar-Mendoza, Liza Perez, Sylvia Amorsolo-Lazo, Juliet Tagle-Martinez, Olive Macapinlac-Ferriols, Zita Reyes-Punzalan, Amelita Garcia-Quezada, Consuelo Sanchez-Guerrero, Bina Barcelon-Alejandrino, Dulce Romualdez, Nani Santos, and Nene Alandy Dy Recto

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You may have defects, be anxious and sometimes live irritated, but do not forget that your life is the greatest enterprise in the world. Only you can prevent it from going into decadence. There are many that need you, admire you and love you.

I would like to remind you that being happy is not having a sky without storms, or roads without accidents, or work without fatigue, or relationships without disappointments.

Being happy is finding strength in forgiveness, hope in one’s battles, security at the stage of fear, love in disagreements.

Being happy is not only to treasure the smile, but that you also reflect on the sadness. It is not just commemorating the event, but also learning lessons in failures. It is not just having joy with the applause, but also having joy in anonymity.

Being happy is to recognize that it is worthwhile to live, despite all the challenges, misunderstandings and times of crises.

Being happy is not inevitable fate, but a victory for those who can travel towards it with your own being.

Being happy is to stop being a victim of problems but become an actor in history itself. It is not only to cross the deserts outside of ourselves, but still more, to be able to find an oasis in the recesses of our soul. It is to thank God every morning for the miracle of life.

Being happy is not being afraid of one's feelings. It is to know how to talk about ourselves. It is to bear with courage when hearing a "no". It is to have the security to receive criticism, even if is unfair. It is to kiss the children, pamper the parents, have poetic moments with friends, even if they have hurt us.

Being happy means allowing the free, happy and simple child inside each of us to live; having the maturity to say, "I was wrong"; having the audacity to say, "forgive me". It is to have sensitivity in expressing, "I need you"; to have the ability of saying, "I love you." So that your life becomes a garden full of opportunities for being happy...

In your spring-time, may you become a lover of joy. In your winter, may you become a friend of wisdom. And when you go wrong along the way, you start all over again. Thus you will be more passionate about life.

And you will find that happiness is not about having a perfect life but about using tears to water tolerance, losses to refine patience, failures to carve serenity, pain to lapidate pleasure, obstacles to open the windows of intelligence.

Never give up .... Never give up on the people you love. Never give up from being happy because life is an incredible show.

And you are a special human being!

Being Happy By: Pope Francis

Jubilarians met to discuss the Homecoming preparations. Seated from L-R: Amelia Santos-Barretto (HS-46), Amy Tolosa-Duremdes (HS-71/AB-75), Ely Horca (HS-61/AB/BSC-65), Tina Novenario-Eloriaga (HS-56), Nenita Lee-Tan (HS-56), Carol de los Santos-Guina (HS-66/AB/BSE-71). Standing L-R: Evelyn Perez-Dumdum (HS-66/BSC-70), Malyne Fernandez-Lorayes (HS-71), Suzette Malig-Ayson (HS-81/BFA-85), Christy Soqueno (HS-76), Cynthia Martinez (HS-76), Micky Fenix-Makabenta (HS-66), and Mitas Shotwell-Aguila (HS-66).

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a heart that forgives the worst, a mind that forgets the bad, and a soul that never loses

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SAVE THE DATE!

October 6-21, 2016, start from Manila or from the U.S.

2 weeks with Chaplain Fr. Andre Querijero, Jr., OCD

Barcelona, Montserrat, Zaragoza, San Sebastian, Bilbao, Loyola, Oviedo, Santiago de Compostela, Braga, Porto, Fatima and Lisbon

Contact Christina Martinez-del Rosario HS’59 at

crisandel@verizon.net, or

Chikie Cruz of Travel Bounty at 02-788-5144,

or any JERICHS for preliminary details.

S P A I N a Journey of Faith

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Our E-mail Connection

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(Ed.’s Note — This section contains

messages/information received through our

e-mail address: chsaf.mla@gmail.com )

Quite a number of our alumnae live in the Washington, New York, and Philadelphia areas that were visited by Pope Francis and where he made such an impact on the thousands that welcomed him. Following are their stories to share with us … My Pope Francis Experience

**********

From: Henedina Pamiloza-Elizazo (HS-64), Spring Valley, New York, Sept. 30/15:

I was in Central Park on September 25,2015 in the yellow zone handicap section. I waited nine whole hours to get a glimpse of our Pope. … What a beautiful feeling indeed! I was able to capture his passing right in front of me. I said to myself and to everybody in my family and to most of my friends: If I was able to handle nine hours out in the open, I can make it again and again. They know my condition. I am handicapped.

**********

From: Carmencita Bengzon-Fajardo (HS-53), Little Ferry, New Jersey, Sept. 30/15

My daughter Joy managed to get two tickets for the Central Park visit of our beloved Holy Father. I had debated whether I could handle the crowd and the long wait. People were there as early as 8:00 a.m. for the 5.30 p.m. appearance!! The excitement was palpable as the line patiently inched towards tight security. I played safe and had brought my cane/seat, a definite lifesaver for this 77-year- old.

Positioned behind 3-people deep, with more behind us, we would know by the screams of the faithful if the pope mobile was coming. The weather was beautiful, the trees provided relief from the sun. Suddenly a unison of OHS and AHS filled the air again and again. A RAINBOW had appeared and again reappeared at least twice in the clear skies above!! That was AWESOME! God had truly blessed us and his faithful Servant that day! A 10-second personal glimpse of our Pope Francis after a six hours' wait was WELL WORTH IT!! And I didn't even feel tired when we got home!.

From: Ma. Elena Silva (HS-62/AB-66/BSC-67), New York, New York, Oct. 01/15:

I had the privilege of winning the lottery to see him at the United Nations and Central Park in New York City. I saw him at the United Nations in the morning and at Central Park in the afternoon. I won two tickets for the Central Park. and I brought my niece who was taking her masters degree and Princeton University. The security in both venues was so strict. At the United Nations, I waited for three hours and at Central Park, we waited for seven hours. On Thursday evening, my friends and I also waited near his residence after the vespers at St. Patrick. We saw him there too.

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From: Ellen Young-Gomez (HS-68), Valencia, California, October 2/15:

I have always had great respect, honor and admiration for Pope Francis. What impresses me most about him is his authenticity … that he practices what he preaches. This is symbolically represented by his use of the humble, little Fiat, rather than a limousine. I listened to and watched his speech in Congress and in the New York stadium on television. I was overwhelmingly touched to hear how much of his declarations are deep down about care and love of man/womankind, not just the poor and children. If he opposes climate change and nuclear proliferation, he is concerned about every creature on earth. I am impressed with the standing ovation he received specially from the people, not only of Catholic faith but from other religions and even from atheists. He is so well loved and respected. I feel privileged to have lived at a time when this person walked this earth.

Pope Francis at the United Nations.

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From: Ruby Sancho-Abreu (BSC-79), Stanford, Connecticut, October 12/15

Thursday, Sept 24 was an extraordinary day in NYC. The streets around St Patrick's Cathedral and several prominent hotels in midtown were closed off … not only because of the UN General Assembly but, more importantly, because of Pope Francis who was coming to town! I texted a friend at the NY Palace to ask if she has seen any diplomats and, being in close proximity to St Patrick’s, about the arrangements for the Pope.

Imagine my surprise when Brenda called me soon after … and said she had tickets to the St. Patrick's Welcome Parade and can I take the afternoon off? Can I?! Of course I immediately told my manager, "You don't need me this afternoon, right? Because I'm going to see the Pope!". So, off I went for a 1:00 p.m. meet-up with Brenda. Pope Francis was not expected at St. Pat's until the 6:45 p.m. vesper service, but we wanted to be close to the front!

We encountered many trials to enter through 50th and Fifth. And we prayed hard that we were where God wanted us to be. And with angels guiding our every step, the secret service agents allowed us entry. Excitedly we walked to the front of the barricade on St Patrick's steps at 2:30 p.m.! No cares that we will be standing for hours! We passed the time by chatting with our barricade neighbors, sharing snacks and candy. No complaints about waiting for so long.

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My jaw dropped deeper than the subway level below. After I thanked him, he walked away, just like that. Andrew H, whoever you are, I think you are an angel in disguise! And somehow, Ray miraculously passed the three checkpoints like a breeze. As we snaked through Central Park West for another 2-3 hours, some people gave up and dropped out because police officers said that we are not guaranteed to enter the park if we don't get to the security checkpoint by 3:30 pm, which was 5 minutes and a thousand people away. As we took that journey of faith through the heart of New York City, we learned to take chances, persevere and be hopeful, have a will, find a way. We learned to take life's punches and detours because, sometimes, there are better and serendipitous plans for us. We realized that there is goodness in the hearts of people. In the many hours of lining up to see him, New Yorkers were orderly and quiet. There were genuine smiles on faces and friendliness I had not felt before. In the park, strangers shared their pictures of the pope with others who were positioned farther away. It was our version of the festival of families. It must have been the pope effect. In that short period of time, I witnessed inclusion of the excluded, unity in diversity, and an overwhelming sense of love and peace. We are forever grateful to experience this opportunity. The pope's messages are simple and universal. They resonate through all creeds and ethnicities. He delivered. This pope star rocked! Be part of our E-Mail Connection… send

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lottery for the golden tickets, We've always just taken a chance see the popes who visited NYC, without attending any of the main events. I know most of the Manhattan streets by heart, and we've had successful accidental close encounters each time—Pope John Paul II in1995, Benedict XVI in 2008, and Francis on 5th Ave., yesterday.

The agenda to leave home bright and early failed. Our day couldn't be any worse, beginning with car trouble; then, having to wait in a long line for gas in the middle of a workday, and, then, taking the slowest train to the city, thus missing out on the plan to see the pope at the 9/11 memorial site. We quickly grabbed a bite before rushing to take the A train uptown to the West Side for Central Park, next on his schedule. Meanwhile, friends were already posting selfies at the park, donning their pope T-shirts and happily waving the yellow and white flags. We came three hours after event organizers started letting the droves of people with the golden tickets in. We were already resigned to the fact that we'll just have to wait outside of the procession route and catch him somewhere else, perhaps after he comes from the school in Harlem or on his way to or from Madison Square Garden. Either we had impeccable timing or we were meant to be blessed by the pope because of our jobs - taking care of the elderly and special needs children, the two groups closest to his heart. While waiting behind a police barricade with a cohort of sad non-ticket holders, watching exuberant ticket holders pass by, a man suddenly stopped, smiled and handed me his ticket!

At 6:40 p.m., there was a roar from crowds along Fifth Ave. and then there was the Pope mobile! Oh my, what jubilation! Pope Francis at last! He seemed luminous, wearing the simple white vestments and in the white Pope mobile. In my excitement, I didn't notice Cardinal Dolan sitting on the back bench as all my attention was on the Pope. I felt goose bumps to see Pope Francis up close! We were right near the speakers; so, we could hear the services inside the Cathedral. We kept our place and stayed to have the complete experience of Pope Francis. He spoke with such eloquence and conviction in a soft spoken way.

So, my friend and I were there to greet (more like scream) Pope Francis, and we were there to wave good night to him. A truly memorable event! Oh yes, I needed to take Advil the next morning. I felt sore from the hours of standing but it was well worth it!

Viva IL Papa!!! **********

From: Antonietta Dizon (HS-59), Cliffside Park, New Jersey, Oct. 20/15:

Pope Francis' visit to New York City last September 24-25 would had been another opportunity for me to see His Holiness in person. Sadly, I was out of town; but I was able to follow the Pope's journey on TV.

Looking back, though, I was warmed by the memory of a previous event involving Pope Francis. It was in May of 2013 in Rome. It was Pentecost Sunday. Our tour group was escorted from the Sistine Chapel to St. Peter's Square. There were thousands of pilgrims. I was surprised to hear that Pope Francis was to celebrate holy mass at the Square. I saw the Pope! During holy mass, doves were hovering above. I was reminded of dear HGC!

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From: Rica Vizarra-Villonco (HS-79), Princeton, New Jersey, Oct. 16/15:

We are fans of a pope star!

Millions applied for tickets to see the pope in Central Park. No, we were not one of the lucky 80,000 who won the parish

A precious ticket …

a precious chance to see

the Pope!

Catching sight of Pope Francis … well worth the many hours of waiting.

Rica and Ray Villonco…

all ready for the long wait for the

Pope.

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Through our "Alumnae Prayer Community," let all of us, alumnae-sisters, pause for a minute and storm heaven with our prayers for: - Lilia G. Tansinsin (HS-55), who was recently hospitalized

due to a mild heart attack; - the speedy recovery through the help of therapy

sessions of Letty Litonjua-Mendoza, mother of Eunice Anne M. Blanco (HS-76), Marie Janelle M. Reyes (HS-77), Margaret Mary M. de Marcaida (HS-81), and Noreen Mary M. Gener (HS-82);

- Enya F. Gomez (HS-53), who is recovering from a fall that she suffered in her home;

- Imelda Ramirez-Ostrea (HS-55/BSChem-59), for complete recovery from a recent surgical procedure.

Send us your prayer requests and let our "Alumnae Prayer Community" gather through this section in His name for you. Call Rei at Tel. No. 735-5986 or e-mail us at chsaf.mla@gmail.com.

Oct. 08 - Frenesi C. Exconde (HS-61), sister of Darlene E. Milo (HS-68);

Oct. 12 - Grace Powell-Joseph (HS-48), sister of Violet P. Merlo (d), HS-48, Winifred P. Mueller (HS-50), and Eleanor P. Esteban (HS-52/BSE-56);

Oct. 30 - Angeles Tioseco-de Leoz, sister of sister of Soledad S. Tioseco (d), AHE-38, Milagros T. Cadiz (HS-44), and Sister Mary Remedios (Perla) Tioseco, S.Sp.SAP (d), HS-41;

Nov. 10 - Teofilo V. Tanjuatco, brother of Victoria (HS-50) and Theresita (HS-52/AA-54);

Nov. 21 - Dolores Nuñez-Firmacion (HS-42), sister of Benita N. Maronilla (d), HS-44, Luz N. Dungo (HS-50), and Apolonia N. Nery (HS-53);

Nov. 22 - Ma. Mediatrix O. Abaya (HS-66/AB-70), sister of Corazon (d), HS-54/AB/57/BSE-58, Ma. Cristina (HS-57/ABA-59), Ma. Concepcion (HS-63/AB-67), and Ma. Purificacion A. Almeda (d), HS-61/AB-65;

Dec. 17 - Ma. Thelma S. Medida (AB/BSC-71), sister of Asuncion M. Chin (AM-65/BM-67) and Ma. Teresa M. Williams (BFA-79);

Dec. 22 - Teresita V. Jose (HS-56/BSE-60), sister of Anita (HS-50), Angelina J. Sim (d), HS-54/BSPharm-59, Eloisa J. Gatmaitan (HS-61/AB-65), and Esther J. Capistrano (HS-65) and former grade school teacher at CHSM during the sixties;

Jan. 01 - Julita R. Legarda (HS-53), sister of Carmen L. Nibungco (d) HS-50;

Jan. 04 - Sister Esther Maria (Concepcion Cuvin), S.Sp.S. (BFA-71), sister of Sister Mary Lucy (Mercedes), S.Sp.SAP (BSChem-57); Sister Esther Maria was a CHSM faculty member of the Fine Arts department from 1972-1978 and its Dean from 1978- 1992;

Congratulations to . . .

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- Our alumni who passed the following board exams for:

Licensure for Nurses, last May 2015: Angelica Marie D. Algenio (BSN-12), Baieileen A. Alid (BSN-11), and Ma. Juvilisa B. Dioneda (BSN-13;

Professional Teachers (Secondary), last March 2015: Rica D. Buitizon (BSE-14), and Lorlie Janyn B. Tuscano (BSE-14);

Medical Technologists, last March 2015: BSMT graduates, Stephanie D. Abad, Jessica Patrice D. Aliman, Janine D. Ayaso, Ma. Arielle Louise Bustos, Billy Joe A. Cacho, Patrick B. Calaunan, Michaelle D. Cuevas, Ven Kristine L. Dettabali, Janessa May M. Garcia, Lynnon Omie C. Gonzaga, Kathleen Ann L. Mario, Marinelle M. Mercado, Jayvi Ann O. Pua, Mae Jhoanalen A. Sagales, and Amiethyst B. Tubo and Mary Grace Michelle D.C. Fernando (BSMT-04);

- Our newest alumni – who completed their master’s degrees from our Graduate School last Nov. 28, 2015

Into Eternal Life

Prayer Corner

Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. - Henry Ford