Tagaytay City—As comissionaries, employees of the SVD Laudato Si' Farm joined the SVD Tagaytay Community's Advent Recollection last December 5, 2023. Rev. Fr. Arlo Yap, SVD, facilitated the recollection.
The event united the SVD Tagaytay Community in a celebration of faith and community and renewed their faith during the Advent season.
The attendees were divided into two batches—the morning batch, which conducted their activity from 7:45 AM to 12:00 NN, and the afternoon batch, which conducted their activity from 12:45 NN to 5:00 PM. At 12:00 NN, attendees joined a shared lunch at the Divine Word Seminary Tagaytay (DWST).
The beginning of each batch's activity was the discussion, facilitated by Fr. Arlo, at the Arnoldus Hall/Library. The discussion was then followed by the Holy Mass, held at the DWST Chapel. Throughout the day, the SVD Tagaytay Community's comissionaries embodied a shared commitment to spiritual enrichment.
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Fr. Arlo's discussion illuminated the essence of Advent, weaving anecdotes that beautifully illustrated the significance of waiting for the arrival of Christ. Comparing this anticipation to leaving a light on for visitors, he explained how the Advent wreath symbolizes the hopeful expectation of Christ's coming, urging attendees to prepare their hearts to welcome Him without Him needing to knock.
“Kapag nakita ni Hesus ang mga kandila ng Advent wreath, nakikita Niya na naghihintay tayo sa Kanya,” said Fr. Arlo.
A poignant exploration into emotional, spiritual, and material clutter unveiled the barriers hindering a genuine readiness for Christ's arrival. Fr. Arlo's words resonated deeply as he delved into the different levels of pain—encounters with strangers, complexities within relationships, and familial challenges—encouraging attendees to navigate and cleanse these emotional and spiritual impediments.
Fr. Arlo guided participants to distinguish between support as “gabay” (from the front), “alalay” (from behind), or “kasalalay” (from the side), highlighting the varied forms of companionship and assistance needed in life's journey.
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After each discussion, Fr. Arlo challenged the attendees to apply the lessons they learned from the discussion through the celebration of the Holy Mass at the DWST Chapel.
During the Holy Mass, he led the Sacrament of Reconciliation, during which he challenged the attendees to reflect about their sins, write them down on a piece of paper, and tear that paper after they receive absolution through the sacrament.
The day culminated in a vibrant blend of spiritual enrichment and communal joy, affirming the SVD Tagaytay Community’s commitment to nurturing a united and spiritually vibrant family. As the Advent season unfolds, this event serves as a beacon, guiding hearts and minds toward the true essence of Christmas.
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During the previous day, December 4, 2023, employees of the SVD Farm joined the Gift-Giving Activity at the St. Peter Fishpond and Gazebo from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. The exchange of gifts became an embodiment of the spirit of giving of the Christmas season, enhancing the festive atmosphere and fostering connections among the participants.
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For reservations and other information, including ways to support and connect with the SVD Farm, contact us through:
📞 0905-106-5499
📧 contact@svdlaudatosifarmfoundation.org.