Baguio City – The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Officer Cordillera Administrative Region (DSWD FO CAR) Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY) and Regional Haven for Women and Girls (RHWG) successfully conducted the transformative Lenten activity for their residents held on 29 to 30 March 2024 at San Pablo Seminary, Baguio City, where the residents engaged in a deeply enriching Lenten Recollection activity.
The two-day event provided the residents with the opportunity for reflection, renewal, and spiritual growth, as they embarked on a journey of self-discovery and contemplation during the Lenten season. The Lenten Recollection gave the participants the opportunity to pause from their daily routines and connect with their inner selves, fostering a sense of inner peace and tranquility.
“Recollection is not good enough if we do not have reflection.” RHWG Center Head Concepcion Navales shared in her opening message. She also added that the seminary is the perfect place for reflection, and encouraged the participants to ponder on the importance of the Lenten season.
“We hope the seminary would contribute to your development.” Rev. Father Nicolia Schekov Ballucang of the San Pablo Seminary said as he warmly welcomed the participants in his message, and also encouraged them to explore the seminary while meditating and contemplating on the discussions and activities of the Lenten Recollection.
Residents engaged in various activities, including prayer sessions, guided meditations, inspirational talks and group discussions, all designed to encourage inner peace, personal growth, and emotional healing. The setting of the event was one of tranquility and camaraderie, as residents embraced the opportunity to take a break from their daily activities, deepen their spiritual understanding, and enhance their connection with their inner selves.
One of the discussions was self-discovery, where passages in the Bible, like Genesis 2:7-8, were discussed to the participants as a guide for their introspection. The topics under this theme revolved around knowing one’s self internally and through the eyes of others, and more importantly, self-acceptance as the first step to self-improvement. The next concept explained to the participants was regarding Facebook Family wherein the importance of real chatting with family groups was explained to the residents: the genuine and authentic connection and conversations. After each discussion, activities were assigned to the participants so they can apply what they learned and understood from the discussions. One of the activities was regarding their names, its origin and meaning. This activity helped them appreciate their identity, and also fortify their sense of self. Another activity that made the participants realize their worth and strengthen their friendship with their peers involved drawing the face of the participant whom they considered their true friend. They also had a sharing about a brief history and value of their friendship.
The second day of the recollection started with the discussion about friendship, and the participants were reminded that a good friend will not lead their friend in harm’s way. The value of self-care was also given emphasis. Self-care was also an important discussion for the residents as they were advised that they cannot take care of others if they do not take care of themselves first. The last discussion for the Lenten Recollection was about choices and decisions in life. During the sharing, the significance of making the right choices and good decisions was highlighted. The participants were also reminded and assured that their past actions do not define them, and they are worthy of love, chances, and respect.
In the afternoon of the second day, the activities for the residents were inclined on their physiological development. The residents participated in a meditative yoga session, and through this activity, they were given the chance to practice mindfulness while taking care of their bodies. Following this, the participants enjoyed an introspective nature walk and tree planting activity. The tree planting activity gave the residents a greater sense of contribution to the community as this act of kindness to nature and community is known to have environmental benefits, like mitigating climate change. During the environmental scanning, the residents were also given the time to reflect and contemplate on the discussions that took place. Before the conclusion of the activities, Rev. Father Ballucang offered a prayer for the participants, staff, and facilitators of the Lenten Recollection.
“May the reflections and experiences of this Lenten Recollection inspire us to carry the light of faith, hope, and love into our daily lives. Let us continue to grow together as a community, supporting one another on our spiritual journey. As we embrace the Easter season, may the grace of renewal and redemption fill our hearts, guiding us to live more fully in the joy of Christ’s resurrection.” Mr. Bernard Cadaon Jr., Social Welfare Officer I of RRCY, said in his closing remarks He also expressed his gratitude to the San Pablo Seminary for the warm accommodation and peaceful venue. He also thanked the staff and facilitators for their time, efforts, and passion for their involvement in the development of the residents. Lastly, he thanked the participants for their active involvement in the activities.
The event provided the residents with a supportive environment where they were able explore their spirituality, seek solace in their faith, and strengthen their emotional and mental well-being. By nurturing the spiritual aspect of our residents’ lives, they are empowered to overcome challenges, cultivate resilience, and embark on a path towards positive transformation and personal growth.
The DSWD Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY) and Regional Haven for Women and Girls (RHWG) are facilities under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) dedicated to provide care, support, and rehabilitation services to youth in conflict with the law and women and girls in difficult circumstances. #DSWD-CAR, SOCIAL MARKETING UNIT, Joanna Marie M. Caponpon-Apostol, Administrative Assistant III
