by Patricia Leigh N. Gonzales
A group of selected students from Stella Maris Academy of Davao (SMAD) recently participated in the Vocation Jamboree 2024 held at the St. Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary of Mindanao. The two-day event, held on September 28-29, 2024, had the theme “Into the Unknown: Discovering Who God Made You to Be.”
The jamboree provided the students with an opportunity to deepen their faith, connect with other youth, and gain a deeper understanding of their potential vocations. Through various activities, including talks, workshops, and prayer, the participants were able to reflect on their own lives and discern their calling.
A total of 28 SMAD students attended the jamboree, representing different school organizations, namely: Marianne Maturan, Kimiko Cuencia, Alainna Sy, and Savannah Pabaonon of the Pastoral Ministry Choir; Mikaela Lasmarias, Ioan Yu, Klent Abanil, Edzymon Waga, Therese Destriza, Alyssa Santiago, and Khalel Solon of the F.I. Youth Organization; Jasmine Caballero, Vivianne Pimentel, Sophia Hiteroza, Krischnan Ong, and Alicia Relampagos of the National Youth Assembly (NYA); and Danielle Padios, Asher Uy, Josue Tesado, Seann Lapiz, Joelle Narisma, Gabriel Hao, and Jorge Ferrando of the Knights of the Altar Servers (KOTAS).
They were accompanied by several SMAD faculty members and religious sisters, including Sister Dina L. Galaura, F.I. (SMAD’s Grade School Principal), Ms. Flordelette V. Sison (Youth Animation In-Charge), Mrs. Fatima Lyziel S. Montebon (F.I. Youth Moderator), Ms. Patricia Leigh N. Gonzales (NYA Youth Minister), Mr. Cedric Vince C. Gometer (Pastoral Ministry Choir Moderator), Mr. Jorge D. Manzanillo Jr. (KOTAS Club Moderator), and Ms. Emmanuela Malaque (RCA’s Secretary).
Sister Georgita P. Hormillosa, F.I. (SMAD’s Representative of the Congregation to the Apostolic Work (RCA)), Sister Victoria F. Lim, F.I. (SMAD’s Treasurer), and Sister Anna Chan, F.I. visited the SMAD participants on the evening of September 28. The Hijas de Jesus Sisters came to check on the Marisians and offer their guidance and support.
Following the jamboree, several SMAD students expressed their gratitude for the experience and shared their positive reflections. Many said that they felt inspired and encouraged to continue their spiritual journey.
Jasmine Caballero enjoyed the church service and praise and worship sessions the most, noting that she felt a sense of belonging and connection with her peers. She described the experience as “comforting”.
Meanwhile, Therese Destriza was particularly impressed by the socio-cultural night, appreciating the talents of the seminarians and their willingness to share them. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to witness such a performance.
On the other hand, Khalel Solon found the sharing activity to be most impactful, as she was inspired by the testimonies of the sisters and seminarians. She felt encouraged to participate in more parish-based activities and described the overall experience as “blessed”.
The Vocation Jamboree was a valuable opportunity for SMAD students to explore their faith and discover their potential. The event was a testament to the school’s commitment to providing holistic education and supporting the spiritual growth of its students.