Last Sunday, December 7, 2025—just a day before the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception—the BEC (Basic Ecclesial Community) members from our adopted communities in Lupang Hinirang and Area 7 of Fourth Estate, Parañaque City gathered for their annual Advent Recollection and Christmas Celebration. The session was facilitated by Mr. Eleazar Solas, Quality Assurance Coordinator and dedicated Outreach Volunteer.

This year’s recollection centered on the theme of preparing our hearts to welcome Jesus and allowing Him to dwell within us. Mr. Solas encouraged the participants to become living witnesses of the incarnate Christ in their homes and communities.

A simple yet joy-filled Christmas Party followed the recollection. The participants, dressed in festive red and green attire symbolizing the spirit of Christmas, eagerly joined the parlor games and shared moments of laughter and camaraderie.

Everyone enjoyed a hearty feast of well-loved Filipino dishes such as Chicken Adobo, Chicken Afritada, Lumpiang Shanghai, Pancit Bihon, and a delicious dessert.

Before heading home, each BEC family received a Noche Buena Package made possible through the generosity of the entire Manresa School educative community—parents, students, teachers, and staff—during this year’s Christmas Fund Drive. Thanks to this collective effort, every family's Noche Buena celebration is assured.

The Community Extension and Service Office is deeply grateful for the abundant love and support from everyone. This meaningful gathering would not have been possible without the unwavering assistance of the Manresa School Administration, headed by Sr. Normida Marquez, FI, our RCA, and our dedicated outreach volunteers: Ms. Krisna Gregorios, Ms. Rosalia Dela Cruz, Ms. Anna Ria Dimabayao, Ms. Charito Calantas, Ms. Dianne Gayatgay, Mr. Eleazar Solas, and Mr. Limwel Lamoc.

Truly, the spirit of St. Candida is alive in our community as we prepare to welcome Jesus this Christmas season.

 By Mr. Ariel  Cañete