Happy memories of 2023

I taught my seven year old ward the Lord’s prayer in March last year. After he learned it, I taught him to recite the Hail Mary and the Fatima Prayer, until one day we prayed together the Holy Rosary. I felt so much joy that moment even until now as we continue to pray together. Praising and glorifying our Almighty God. 

— Nelma Cabrera

With my family happy memories for me is when I call them through landline, chatting, laughing and exchanging greetings and sharing to them my life here abroad. It’s not easy being far from our love ones but I need to work for them and for myself.

My happy memories with my friend is when sharing our food during our days off, eating together, chatting, and laughing. Sometimes our friends know us better than we know ourselves. They are there to guide and support us, to share our laughter and our tears. Their presence reminds us that we are never really alone. 

In my Church community my fond memories are the times we share our responsibilities in fulfilling our tasks.

— Leza Castañeda

2023 was the most amazing year I had. It brings a lot of happy memories that I treasured. I attended a catechism class in St. Thomas the Apostle Church, Tsing Yi. With that I learned a lot, from scriptures to the commandments. I learned to forgive my father too. I have more faith, hope and trust In the Lord. At the same time I joined with the Legion of Mary, which brings me closer to Mary and I learned how to pray the Holy Rosary. Last October 15, after a year long of waiting, I finally got baptised, confirmed and had my first communion. Last December 3, I went for the first time to Confession. I cried but after confession I was relieved with the advise from my confessor to call and forgive my father now that it is Christmas. I am grateful to God for sending my godmother who was his instrument in guiding me to my Catholic faith.

 — Crisma Corpuz

One of those moments that I will cherish is when my mother and I visited the doctor for her mental well being. It happened when I went home to the Philippines. It was such an emotional moment when my mother was given an injection and she touched my shoulders and hugged me tight. It has been years since I had to see her in person, and it hit deep, and hard. We both smiled despite our teary eyes, and laughed a little knowing we understood what the gesture meant for each other. I love her so much as she loved me. 

— Joceryl Depasupil

I had an opportunity to have a vacation last year during Lent and Easter. I had fun filled and happy memories when my best friend and I explored Manila and Batangas to have our Holy Week pilgrimage. We met and conversed with people in every churches we went as we gave them rosaries and the rosary guides. I was happy to see them eagerly accepted it and some really asked for it. During that four-day pilgrimage, my heart was full of joy.

— Melinda Esmalla

I went back home in July last year. I am surprised when I arrived home as my family have a birthday celebration for me, all my granddaughters and grandsons. My three daughters were all present as well. I was very happy indeed. That was my most unforgettable moment. We were all together as one family and could not believe it happened. 

— Zenaida Gomez

I joined the Bible encounter in St. Benedict Church for the first time last year. With God’s grace we won the first place. Because of that, I can say to myself, that I can do it as long I put my complete trust in God and the Holy Spirit will help me and to give me wisdom and knowledge. After that Bible encounter, I was inspired to read the scriptures whenever I’m free. And I learned more about Jesus and other prophets, their lives and personalities. And I have developed a positive attitude in life now. I apply in my daily life what I read and share it to my family especially to my children. I’m thankful to my two friends, Mel and Nelm, who pushed me to join that Bible encounter.

— Lorena Pedro