International Conference on Youth Ministry
Youth Ministry: Towards a Fullness of Life for All
Schedule
4-5 APRIL 2024 (Thursday-Friday)
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
6 APRIL 2024 (Saturday)
8:30 AM - 12NN
Venue
Henry Lee Irwin Theater,
Ateneo De Manila University Grade School
Loyola School of Theology
Loyola Heights, Quezon City
organized by
Loyola School of Theology
in cooperation with
Don Bosco School of Theology
ICYM2024 is intended for the training of youth and campus ministers and individuals actively involved in guiding and caring for the youth. Only a limited 200 seats are available to non-LST and DBST students. Online pre-registration is thereby required with a minimal non-refundable fee of PhP 1,500.00, which covers 3 lunches, 5 snacks and other incidentals during the conference.
What's new with ICYM2024?
ICYM 2023’s morning plenary sessions guided the participants in the Science of Youth Ministry, a ministry that engages both theology and pedagogy, i.e., Pastoral Theology and the Human Sciences. Youth ministry needs to be in constant interaction and exchange between the reflection domain and action domain so that reflection can shape the practice of youth ministry and the action domain can inform the reflection domain on the nature of the ground realities.
The afternoon workshop sessions were related to the action or practices in Youth Ministry. Aside from topics on youth catechesis and social media, we showcased and benchmarked with the many varied forms and practices of youth ministry in the Philippines and other parts of the world – USA, Vietnam, Indonesia, Croatia, France – to provide us with insights into our own practices of youth ministry.
For ICYM2024, we will continue to reflect on the Science of Youth Ministry through the Plenary Keynote Addresses of our Professor of Youth Ministry, Fr. Jerome Vallabaraj SDB, with the special addition of two panel discussions on youth culture and empowerment. In keeping with the proposals presented by the participants of ICYM2023, the afternoon sessions will offer an initial immersion in skills training workshops designed to enhance the capabilities of youth ministers. These workshops will cover a vast range of topics, including technology and music, retreat and recollection facilitation, counseling, spiritual direction, conflict management, and other essential skills.
The final morning of ICYM2024 will be capped by a special full morning plenary session with Fr. Johnny Go SJ of the Ateneo de Manila’s Gokongwei Brothers School of Education and Learning Design. The session – the highlight of ICYM2024 – will be dedicated to youth ministry program designing, planning, and strategizing which promises to be a dynamic and interactive session where participants can collaborate and formulate a prototype of an effective youth ministry program.
“Youth ministry, as traditionally carried out, has been significantly affected by social and cultural changes. Young people frequently fail to find in our usual programs a response to their concerns, their needs, their problems, and issues. The proliferation and growth of groups and movements predominantly associated with the young can be considered the work of the Holy Spirit who constantly shows us new paths. … Although it is never easy to approach young people, two things have become increasingly evident: the realization that the entire community has to be involved in evangelizing them, and the urgent requirement that young people take on a greater role in pastoral outreach”.
(Christus Vivit, 2019)
features
Three “study days” of learning the Church’s vision, principles, and best practices of youth ministry
Three keynote addresses and two panel discussions with the youth and youth ministers in the plenary sessions
Participants from 30 countries or so around the world
A full morning plenary workshop on youth ministry planning and program designing to be facilitated by the Gokongwei Brothers School of Education and Learning Design
11 breakout groups that offer skills training workshops designed to enhance the capabilities of youth ministers in various areas of ministry
Youth performances interspersed throughout the “study days”
Plenary Speakers
Fr. Jerome Vallabaraj, SDB
Ms. Karen Joy Caramoan
Bro. Timothée Tillard, CCN
Ms. Florence Alexius
Ms. Mary Theresa Le Thi Tuyet An
Ms. Imelda Soidi
Bro. Raoul R. Roncal, SW
Fr. Johnny C. Go, SJ
Mathew Maru Ramarama
Ryanne Samantha C. Villalon
Jose Gabriel S. Castillo
Workshop Speakers
Fr. Francis D. Alvarez, SJ
Dr. Ryan D. Barrion
Dr. Giselle L. Barrion
Dr. Moses Jarvis R. Catan
Fr. Paul Aldrin Dungca, SDB
Dr. Socorro Perpetual Esguerra-Escarez
Mr. Rodne R. Galicha
Fr. Renato G. de Guzman, SDB
Mr. Lester Mendiola and the Jesuit Music Ministry
Fr. Xavier Olin SJ and the Center for Ignatian Spirituality
Fr. Fidel Ma. D. Orendain, SDB
Ms. Lesley Anne A. Rosal
Program
| Day One, 4 April 2024, Thursday | |
|---|---|
| 8:30am |
Inaugural Ceremonies
Philippine National Anthem
Hymn of the Vatican City State
Hosts: Ms. Ma. Lowella Calderon and Bro. Erwin Arandia, SJ
Opening Prayer: Ms. Rizalina T. Simpas
Welcome Address
Fr. Rogel Anecito L. Abais, SJ
Conference Co-Chair |
| 8:45am | Youth Cultural Presentation: St. Mary’s Academy Pasay |
| 9:00am |
Bridging the Generation Gap to “Behold” the Young
Fr. Jerome Vallabaraj, SDB
Don Bosco Theological Center
Kavarapettai, India |
| Youth ministers often run the risk of viewing the young in terms of needs, activities, programmes, etc., forgetting that they are unique persons in a particular context. If “focus is one of the key attributes of a leader and nowhere, is it more powerful than when applied to and on behalf of another human being” (Laurie Beth Jones, 1994, 180), then the vocation of youth ministers is to “behold the young”, to be fully centered and to hold or embrace the young. This focus or beholding the young or this predilection for the young demands of the youth ministers a verification of their fundamental perspectives through which they perceive, comprehend, and recognize the young. This session intends to highlight two such fundamental mindsets required: youth ministers are called to be animators of a young person’s self-renewing process (autopoietic) and that calls for a pastoral, empathetic, and optimistic presence among the young. | |
| 9:45am |
Open Forum |
| 10:00am | Merienda Break |
| 10:20am |
Effective Engagement with Millenials and Gen Z
Ms. Karen Joy Caramoan
SeeWorthy International |
| In this presentation, we will delve deep into the dynamic world of Millennial and Gen Z culture, exploring the unique values, attitudes, and behaviors that shape the lives of today’s teenagers and young adults. From the impact of technology and social media to the evolving landscape of social justice and activism, we will uncover the key trends and influences that define these generations. By gaining a better understanding of their experiences, challenges, and aspirations, we hope to discover new ways to connect, inspire, and support the youth and campus communities we serve. | |
| 11:00am |
Panel Discussion
Bro. Timothee Tillard, CCN
Mr. Mathew Maru Ramarama
Ms. Ryanne Samantha C. Villalon
Chemin Neuf Community
Ms. Karen Joy Caramoan
See Worthy International |
| 11:40am |
Invitation to Silence
Holy Eucharist Presider and Homilist: Fr. Ramil Maranan SDB
Provincial Delegate, Salesian Youth Movement
Choir: LST Choir |
| 12:30pm | Lunch |
| 2:30pm | Workshops at the Loyola School of Theology |
| In the afternoon, youth ministers will be immersed in enriching skills training workshops designed to enhance their capabilities. These workshops will cover a diverse range of topics, including technology and creative arts, retreat and recollection facilitation, counseling, spiritual direction, conflict management, and various other essential skills. Participants will be required to pre-register online in two different workshops during the Conference. Limited slots will be available in each workshop group. | |
| 4:30pm | Merienda and Departure |
| Day One – Workshops |
|---|
|
Conflict Resolution and Mediation
Fr. Fidel Ma. Orendain, SDB |
|
Technology and Evangelization
Rev. Paul Aldrin Dungca, SDB |
|
Mentoring the Youth in Ecology and Social Justice
Mr. Rodne Galicha |
|
Financial Literacy and Stewardship
Nicholson and Francene Chiara Tee
The Light of Jesus Family |
|
Creative Approaches to Bible Study
Dr Moses Catan & Fr. Francis Alvarez, SJ |
|
Music in Youth Ministry
Mr. Lester Mendiola and the Jesuit Music Ministry |
|
Catechesis in the New Evangelization
Fr. Renato de Guzman, SDB |
|
Recollection and Retreat Facilitating Skills
Ms. Lesley Anne Rosal |
|
Effective Counseling Skills
Dr. Socorro Escarez |
|
Fundamentals of Discernment and Spiritual Direction
Fr. Xavier Olin SJ and the Center for Ignatian Spirituality |
|
Essentials of Effective Leadership
Dr. Ryan Barrion and Dr. Giselle Barrion |
| Day Two, 5 April 2024, Friday | |
|---|---|
| 8:30am |
Hosts: Bro. Bien Carlo Dilla and Bro. James Ryan Seneriches, SJ
Opening Prayer: Sr. Hyun Ji Yang, SCG |
| 8:45am |
Empowering the Young Towards Fullness of Life for All
Fr. Jerome Vallabaraj, SDB
Don Bosco Theological Center
Kavarapettai, India |
|
In youth ministry, empowerment of the young is generated through an authentic relationship between the young and youth ministers wherein the young and youth ministers trust each other, respect the competence of each other, help each other and where unconditional love becomes the supreme criterion. Such an option perceives the young not as objects of youth ministry but rather as true protagonists in relationship and as agents of their own life. This empowerment of the young aims at nurturing a regno-centric youth ministry wherein the Reign of God, witnessed and proclaimed by Jesus Christ, signifies and denotes the symbol of fullness of life for all and becomes the motive and ultimate goal. Regno-centric youth ministry founded on fullness of life for all lays emphasis on developing right relationships with one’s own life, with others, with the society, with the creation and above all with the author of creation and life. If spirituality is understood as ‘one’s way of life’, then this holistic goal of fullness of life for all can become the spirituality of regno-centric youth ministry and the universal all-encompassing vision of youth ministry. |
|
| 9:45am | Open Forum |
| 10:00am | Merienda Break |
| 10:20am |
Panel Discussion
Empowering the Young to Discern Their Life-Choice: Best Practices of Youth Ministers
Ms. Florence Alexius
Ms. Mary Theresa Le Thi Tuyet An
Ms. Imelda Soidi
Institute of Formation Fondacio Asia
Bro. Raoul Roncal, SW
Mr. Jose Gabriel Castillo
Servants of the Word
Christ’s Youth in Action |
|
This discussion will delve into the essential skills and strategies that youth ministers can employ to guide today’s youth in discovering their unique life paths. Through real-life examples and practical tips, youth ministers can gain insights into helping young people navigate the complexities of decision-making, from choosing a career to making ethical choices and establishing personal values. They will also discover the importance of fostering resilience, self-awareness, and a strong sense of purpose in the lives of the youth they serve. |
|
| 11:00am | Open Forum |
| 11:20am | Youth Presentation: Ateneo Grade School Boys Choir |
| 11:40am |
Invitation to Silence
Holy Eucharist Presider and Homilist: Fr. Errol Nebrao SJ
Coordinator, Magis Philippines
Choir: San Jose Seminary |
| 12:30pm | Lunch |
| 2:30pm | Workshops at the Loyola School of Theology |
| 4:30pm | Merienda and Departure |
| Day Two – Workshops |
|---|
|
Conflict Resolution and Mediation
Fr. Fidel Ma. Orendain, SDB |
|
Technology and Evangelization
Rev. Paul Aldrin Dungca, SDB |
|
Mentoring the Youth in Ecology and Social Justice
Mr. Rodne Galicha |
|
Financial Literacy and Stewardship
Nicholson and Francene Chiara Tee
The Light of Jesus Family |
|
Creative Approaches to Bible Study
Dr Moses Catan & Fr. Francis Alvarez, SJ |
|
Music in Youth Ministry
Mr. Lester Mendiola and the Jesuit Music Ministry |
|
Catechesis in the New Evangelization
Fr. Renato de Guzman, SDB |
|
Recollection and Retreat Facilitating Skills
Ms. Lesley Anne Rosal |
|
Effective Counseling Skills
Dr. Socorro Escarez |
|
Fundamentals of Discernment and Spiritual Direction
Fr. Xavier Olin SJ and the Center for Ignatian Spirituality |
|
Essentials of Effective Leadership
Dr. Ryan Barrion and Dr. Giselle Barrion |
| Day Three, 6 April 2024, Saturday | |
|---|---|
| 8:30am | Hosts: Mr. Michael Niño Ramirez and Bro. Rogelio Nato, SJ Opening Prayer: Sr. Le Thi Phuc, FDZ |
| 8:45am | Youth Presentation: Marikina Dance Guild |
| 9:00am | Workshop: Youth Ministry Planning and Strategy Towards a Fullness of Life for All Fr. Johnny C. Go, SJ Dean, Gokongwei Brothers School of Education and Learning Design Ateneo de Manila University |
This workshop aims to assist youth ministers in developing a youth ministry program that nurtures young people’s sensus fidei, their sense of faith which is foundational to building a synodal Church. The goal is to empower and form them to become thinking believers, people who have not only embraced their faith but are living it out as best as they can. The youth ministry program we envision also aims to assist young individuals in discerning their life choices and vocation towards the fullness of the Christian life, helping them discover their unique path and purpose within the faith community. Throughout this workshop, participants will be provided with tools, insights, and strategies to create at least a prototype of a youth ministry plan that embodies these ideals. | |
| 10:15am | Merienda Break |
| 10:35am | Continuation of the Workshop |
| 11:30am | Invitation to Silence Concluding Holy Eucharist Presider: Fr. Enrico Eusebio SJ President, Loyola School of Theology Homilist: Fr. Francis Gustilo SDB President, Don Bosco School of Theology Choir: Loyola House of Studies |
| 12:15pm | Closing Remarks Fr. Enrico Eusebio, SJ LST President |
| 12:20pm | Farewell Lunch |
15
venue
The Conference will be held in the beautiful Loyola Heights Campus of the Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City, Philippines. The campus is known for its vast green and open spaces and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Overlooking the Marikina Valley, the 90-hectare campus is located along the eastern side of Katipunan Avenue, and is south of and adjacent to the campus of Miriam College.
The morning Keynote Addresses will be held at the Henry Lee Irwin Theater of the Ateneo de Manila Grade School, built in 1995 to house the school’s formal events and productions. The afternoon breakout Workshops will be hosted in the various facilities of Loyola School of Theology.
Lunch will be served in the Richie Fernando Covered Court near Loyola School of Theology and in the San Jose Seminary Covered Court.
accommodations
within Ateneo
University Residence Halls
Cervini Hall, Eliazo Hall, University Dormitory
Contact: Domingo R Vicera
International Residence Hall
Institute of Social Order (ISO) Residence Hall
accommodations
near Ateneo
Studio 89 Residences
MyPlace Residence Residence Hall
Oracle Hotel and Residences
SMRC Dormitoryana
For more information, please contact:
Fr. Enrico C. Eusebio Jr., S.J.
Conference Chair
Loyola School of Theology
email: eeusebio@lst.edu
Fr. Rogel Anecito L. Abais, S.J.
Conference Co-Chair
Loyola School of Theology
email: rabais@lst.edu
Fr. Jerome Vallabaraj, SDB
Fr. Jerome is a Salesian priest from Tamil Nadu, India. He holds a Doctorate in Sacred Theology with specialization in Youth Ministry and Catechetics from the Pontifical Salesian University, Rome. From 2002-2013, he was Professor at the Faculty of the Sciences of Education at the same University. He is currently professor at the Don Bosco Theological Center, Kavarapettai, the theological center of the Chennai Province of the Salesians.
He has authored a number of books on Youth Ministry, including “Empowering the Young Towards Fullness of Life: Seminal Thoughts on Some Pedagogico-Pastoral Requisites in Youth Ministry” (2003), “Animating the Young: An Introduction to a Holistic Paradigm of Youth Ministry” (2005), “Empowering Through Animation: A Pedagogical-Pastoral Paradigm for Youth Ministry” (2010, with S. Korath), “Faith-Focused Mentoring as a Paradigm for Youth Catechesis: Towards the Articulation of a Frame of Reference” (2012), “Transformative Learning and Catechesis with Adults” (2023), and “Cultivating a Faith that Transforms – A Handbook of Fundamental Catechetics” (2023, with A. Christy Lourdunathan).
Ms. Karen Joy Caramoan
Karen is currently the Chief Learning Engineer of SeeWorthy International. She has designed, developed, and facilitated programs focused on leadership, productivity, change management, critical thinking, team development as well as self-empowerment programs for both the private and public sectors. SeeWorthy International is a training and consulting organization which provides services in the areas of HR strategic planning and execution, process and performance improvement here in the Philippines and abroad.
Karen graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology for Teachers degree from the Philippine Normal University, Manila. She was a scholar of the PHINMA National Scholarship program, where she gained valuable experiences working with the youth, co-millennials, and the older generations as well. With her degree in education, she started her career as an educator (2013) before making the move to corporate consulting (2016). She continues to teach and serve through her volunteer works in PHINMA Foundation and in Bicol where she acts as a mentor to scholars, youth groups, and faith-based groups in the community.
Bro. Timothée Tillard, CCN
Timothée is a French religious and seminarian studying at LST. He came to the Philippines in December 2020. He has been involved in the youth ministry of the Chemin Neuf Community for 12 years. In France, Spain, and Poland, he was part the team that organized International Festivals for the Youth. He was appointed the leader the of the Chemin Neuf Youth Ministry in France. In Manila, he is in charge of the Chemin Neuf Youth Ministry and is a Campus Minister at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila.
The Chemin Neuf Community is a Catholic community with an ecumenical vocation. Formed from a charismatic prayer group in 1973, it has 2,000 permanent members in 30 countries, and 12,000 people serving in the community missions. A product of the Charismatic Renewal, the community claims to adhere to an Ignatian spirituality. It brings together priests, lay celibates (men and women) as well as non-celibates and couples with or without children. The community directs its actions around the principle of unity: unity of Christians (ecumenism), unity of people (notably between different cultures and nations), unity of couples and of families.
Ms. Florence Alexius
Ms. Florence A. Alexius, from Malaysia, is presently with the Institute of Formation Fondacio Asia (IFFAsia) in the Philippines as the Director and with the Fondacio Asia Regional Leadership Team. She has been engaged in a private higher education institute in Malaysia from 1989 till 2004 as a lecturer and responsible in management. She has a Master Degree in Business Administration from the University of Dubuque, Iowa, U.S.A. and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Madras, India. In 2005, she completed the Certificate in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) to be an English teacher in a language school and teach English to Myanmar migrants and refugees in Kuala Lumpur. In September 2012, she was sent by the lay movement, Fondacio Malaysia to serve in IFFAsia, to apply her management capabilities and learn new charism. She has also accomplished her second Masters in May of 2019 from the Asian Social Institute, Manila, Master of Science in Pastoral Sociology. Her passion is to journey with young adults to engage and empower them in their journey of life.
Ms. Mary Theresa Le Thi Tuyet An
Mary An, from Vietnam, is a Program Coordinator in the Institute of Formation, Fondacio Asia (IFFAsia). She is a graduate of the University of Natural Sciences in Ho Chi Minh City with a major in Information Technology. She served as a catechist trainor of the Eucharistic Youth Movement and was senior youth animator in the Archdiocese of Saigon in Vietnam. She had been with the youth ministry in the parish and diocese for more than 10 years before joining the formation in IFFAsia.
She is a graduate of the Introduction to Theological Formation Program of St. Vincent School of Theology, Philippines, and is currently completing her master’s degree in educational management and leadership at the University of Santo Tomas, Philippines.
Ms. Imelda Soidi
Imelda is a member of the Dusun community, an indigenous group in North Borneo, Malaysia at the foothills of Mount Kinabalu. She is one of the Program Coordinators of IFFAsia – a school of Discipleship-Mission for young adults and lay people in Asia. IFFAsia aims to enable and engage young people in local communities and Churches.
Together with her siblings, Imelda established an initiative called “PERPUS – The Human Library” which compiled the intangible heritage (folk stories and songs) of her community in order to transmit the language to the younger generation.
She completed a three-year project as a community researcher that had helped in the research, documentation and publication of the Protocol on Managing & Conserving (Winokok) Community Forest Reserve. She served as a full-time Youth Pastoral worker in the Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu upon completing formation in the Institute of Formation Fondacio Asia.
Imelda has a Master of Arts in Sociology with Special Concentration in Development Leadership from Xavier University, Ateneo de Cagayan and a Bachelor of Economics (Planning & Development Economics) from the University Malaysia, Sabah.
Bro. Raoul R. Roncal, SW
Bro. Raoul joined The Servants of the Word as an affiliate in 1986 and made his lifelong commitment to the Lord in 1994. He obtained his MA in Theological Studies at the Loyola School of Theology, Ateneo de Manila University in 2001 and then served until 2007 as National Director of the Christ’s Youth in Action (CYA), a campus ministry organization in the Philippines. He started teaching in the Ateneo de Manila as a College Theology Instructor from 2007 until the present.
CYA is a Catholic missional movement formed by the call to evangelize and train the youth for the service of the Church and society. Its mission is carried out in colleges, universities, senior high schools, parishes, and renewal groups in the Philippines and some parts of Asia. CYA endeavors to evangelize the youth and train leaders for the service of the Church and society. It envisions the youth who are transformed in Christ, and are agents of positive change for the Church and society.
Fr. Johnny C. Go, SJ
Fr. Johnny is the founding dean of the newly established Gokongwei Brothers School of Education and Learning Design of the Ateneo de Manila University. He also previously headed Ateneo’s Institute of the Science and Art of Learning Teaching (SALT), which spearheaded innovations in learning and teaching, particularly through its highly successful Adaptive Design for Learning (ADL) during the pandemic.
Fr. Go obtained his Doctor of Education degree from the UCL Institute of Education of the University of London and Singapore’s National Institute of Education of the Nanyang Technological University, where he specialized in critical thinking, religious education, teacher epistemologies, and the critical realist philosophy of the sciences, to name a few.
He has been posting his weekly homilies on his blog “Pins of Light” for almost two decades, and his annual online retreats, conducted since 2007, have built an online faith community. His weekly One-Minute Homilies are posted on www.fb.com/pinsoflight
Mathew Maru Ramarama
Matthew is currently pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering as a graduating student. Residing in Sampaloc, he has dedicated over three years to volunteering in the social mission of the Chemin Neuf Community in the Philippines. Additionally, he is a postulant within the community and has been actively engaged for nearly five months.
Ryanne Samantha C. Villalon
Ryanne is a fourth year accountancy student at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila. Residing in General Trias, Cavite, she is the eldest of two siblings. Throughout her academic journey, she has maintained a consistent record as an honor student, driven by her passion for learning. Currently interning at SGV & Co., she is gaining invaluable experience in the field of accountancy. Beyond academics, she is actively involved in student leadership, serving as Vice President of her PLM college council and Deputy Commander at the Corps of Sponsors. Her commitment to excellence extends beyond the classroom as she strives to make a positive impact both academically and within her community.
Jose Gabriel S. Castillo
Gab is a graduate of the BS Management Program of the Ateneo de Manila University. He has an appetite for seeking and creating opportunities that will allow him and others to be transformed into individuals that will impact society in positive way. Thus, he has sought leadership opportunities in some of the biggest, most established Ateneo projects and school organizations as well as created one of his own through the launching of his thesis business. He is currently a campus staffer of Christ’s Youth in Action (CYA) focused on engaging and evangelizing students, bringing them into a personal relationship with the Lord and then training them to be future leaders of the Church and Society after they graduate.
Fr. Francis D. Alvarez, SJ
Fr. Francis entered the Society of Jesus in 1997 and was ordained to the priesthood in 2009. He did priestly ministry for two years at the Philippine General Hospital after which he pursued a PhD in Theology and Education at Boston College, Massachusetts. While finishing his Ph.D. in Theology and Education in Boston College, he started exploring how the Bible can truly transform us. He now lectures on Scripture, Religious Education, Theology, and Philosophy in Loyola School of Theology and in the Ateneo de Manila University. As a classroom teacher, he considers himself first and foremost as a student. As a professor, he sees himself primarily as a pastor.
Dr. Ryan D. Barrion
Ryan is a doctor in Applied Cosmic Anthropology, an accredited Fellow in People Management (FPM) of People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP), a Certified Total Rewards Professional of ASEAN Total Rewards Institute Singapore, and a Certified Human Resource Professional from the International Federation of Professional Managers (IFPM), UK. He is the Co-Founder and Vice President for Human Resources of GLB Management Consultancy, and also currently Senior Human Resource Manager of a large manufacturing company. A Commissioned Officer with the rank of Major in the Army Reserve Command, he is also actively engaged in various programs for reservists of the Philippine Army.
He is likewise a Pastoral Council member and Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion of the Santuario di San Paolo, Casa Milan, Quezon City. A seasoned HR Organization Development Leader, he has more than 27 years of progressive leadership experience in all facets of human resources management and has already facilitated programs on management development, customer service, trainer development, personal effectiveness, sales and marketing, human resources, and organization development, among others.
He completed his PhD in Applied Cosmic Anthropology at the Asian Social Institute and obtained both his Master in Business Administration and AB Philosophy degrees from the University of Santo Tomas, Manila who awarded him Distinguished Thomasian Alumnus in 2022 and Benavides Award for Civic Achievement in 1995.
Dr. Giselle L. Barrion
Dr. Giselle Legaspi-Barrion is a doctor in Organizational Development and Planning, and an Internationally Certified Management Consultant of CMC Global. She is the Managing Director and Chief Organization Development Consultant of Great Learnings & Beyond (GLB) Management Consultancy, a faculty member at the University of Santo Tomas —College of Commerce and Business Administration, and a faculty member at the Southeast Asia Interdisciplinary Development Institute (SAIDI) Graduate School of Organization Development. She has more than 20 years of corporate and consulting experience for various industries.
Currently, she is the Organization & Development Committee Chair of ARESCOM Multisector Advisory Board of the Philippine Army, the author of the book, YOU CAN DO IT! The 6 Keys to Personal Development (A Guidebook for People at Work), founder and author of CARA Leadership® (a leadership framework that helps organizations build a culture of love through charity, appreciation, responsiveness and authenticity) and Mrs. Tourism Universe 2019 winner.
Dr. Moses Jarvis R. Catan
Moses holds a PhD in Theology with a major in Biblical Theology from Loyola School of Theology at Ateneo de Manila University. His academic journey also includes an MA in Theology with a major in Biblical Studies from St. Vincent School of Theology. He serves as faculty in multiple institutions such as Loyola School of Theology, Maryhill School of Theology, and St. Vincent School of Theology. His teaching repertoire spans a wide range of courses, including Introduction to the Sacred Scriptures, Strategic Evangelization, Synoptic Gospels, Pentateuch, and more. Furthermore, his commitment to fostering a deep understanding of the Bible extends beyond the classroom, as he has been actively involved in church and corporate settings.
He is currently a member of the Council of Elders of Elim Communities and is Director of the Elim Missions, tasked with setting up Catholic communities in the Philippines, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Canada, and the United States, and with the growth and formation of 170 Elim Communities in these countries. He is also the Director Elim Couples whose mission is to assist in the healing, formation, and upgrade of marriages. As the Director, Elim Discipleship Institute, he is engaged in the formation and training of all Elim Missions servants and volunteers, the formulation of course modules in leadership, servanthood, discipleship, teacher-of-the-Word, and evangelization.
Fr. Paul Aldrin Dungca, SDB
Paul is a perpetually professed Salesian assigned in Don Bosco College, Canlubang. He has a deep passion for exploring the intersections of theology, philosophy, and artificial intelligence. Recently, he completed his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Theology at the renowned Don Bosco School of Theology. For his master’s thesis in Philosophy, he wrote on “Searle’s Notion of Man in A.I. Predictive Policing as a Challenge to Aquinas’ Anthropology,” at the esteemed University of Santo Tomas, Manila.
Paul is grateful for the opportunities he has had to share his research on AI and Ethics with a wider audience. Notably, he had the honor of presenting his work at the World Congress of Philosophy held in Beijing, China, in 2018 and gathering of Catholic Philosophers in Sydney Australia in 2019. His continued fascination with the field of Artificial Intelligence drives his scholarly and pastoral pursuits.
Dr. Socorro Perpetual Esguerra-Escarez
Pinky Escarez is a licensed professional teacher and a registered guidance counselor. She earned her AB Psychology degree from the Ateneo de Manila University in 1990 on full scholarship from the Ateneo Scholarship Foundation. She then pursued her MA in Counseling Psychology in the same university but later on shifted to Education and majored in Guidance and Counseling. She also took units in Law at UP Diliman and in the PhD Guidance program of UP. She recently completed her PhD in Leadership Studies (major in Organization Development) at the Ateneo de Manila University.
Prior to joining the academe, she worked in a private corporation handling human resources, in an NGO advocating for the rights of women and children, in government as a legislative staff officer, and in the Population Council of the United Nations and USAID doing operations research. Since 1993, she has worked in the Ateneo in various capacities – as a high school English teacher, as a guidance counselor, as director of admission and aid, and as assistant principal for student affairs and formation until her early retirement in 2020.
She is currently a part-time lecturer and thesis adviser to graduate students of guidance and counseling in GBSEALD, an HR consultant and an online coach for lifelong learning. This year marks her 31st year of service in Ateneo. As a helping professional, Pinky is a staunch advocate for multicultural counseling for social justice, mental health and holistic wellness.
Mr. Rodne R. Galicha
Rodne is a Filipino environmental activitist. He was the former Philippine Manager of Washington, DC-based The Climate Reality Project, founded by Nobel Laureate and former US Vice President Al Gore. Currently, he leads Living Laudato Si’ Philippines movement focused on ethical and environmentally sustainable investments and practices of Catholic institutions and individuals. While serving as Chairperson of a grassroots cultural and ecological organization Bayay Sibuyanon Inc., he also acts as Greenpeace Philippines’ Vice-Chairperson.
In 2018, the Philippine Tatler included him in the Generation T list as one of the 50 brightest connectors, creative visionaries, influential innovators, and disruptive talents in the Philippines. The Junior Chamber International (JCI) later honored him as one of the 2018 Ten Outstanding Young Men and Women (TOYM) in the Philippines.
He is an alumnus of the University of Santo Tomas and was a visiting scholar at the Catholic University of Louvain. He is the author of the book “We Are Nature”, and he also blogs at www.rodgalicha.com.
Fr. Renato G. de Guzman, SDB
Fr. Degz, a Salesian priest, was Auditor at the 2012 Thirteenth Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops on the theme “The New Evangelization for the Transmission of the Christian Faith.” At the 2018 Fifteenth Ordinary General Assembly or Synod on the Youth, he was a member of the Working Team that drafted its Final Document.
He obtained his Doctorate in Sacred Theology, specializing in Catechetics and Youth Ministry, at the Pontifical Salesian University in Rome. He currently serves as Rector of the Don Bosco Academy of Mabalacat and Bacolor, Pampanga, Philippines.
Mr. Lester Mendiola and the Jesuit Music Ministry
The Jesuit Music Ministry (JMM), an official ministry in the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus, traces its roots to the pioneering work of Fr. Eduardo Hontiveros SJ, who began composing Filipino liturgical songs in response to the mandate of Vatican II in the 1960s.
Vatican II’s Sacrosanctum Concilium urged the entire assembly to actively participate in the liturgy that includes singing. “Fr. Honti” first composed a song for a group of young boys and girls in Barangka, Marikina – later picking up momentum with concerts in the 1970s with this same choir. In 1983, Fr. Honti collaborated with the Pansol Choir in Quezon City to produce new liturgical music after receiving the necessary funding from a grant, as an official music apostolate. In 1986, JMM came to Bicol for their “Maria, Ina ng Pilipinas” concerts in Daet, Naga, Baao, Buhi, Legaspi and other provinces.
Today, JMM provides services that enhance individuals’ God-given musical talents through liturgical music seminars, workshops, and voice training. These programs aim to help pastoral musicians understand their role in the liturgy, select appropriate songs for the Mass, and improve their vocal capabilities. JMM continues to produce not just liturgical music but music used as a springboard for prayer and meditation.
Fr. Xavier Olin SJ and the Center for Ignatian Spirituality
Xave is the 13th Provincial of the Philippine Province in the post-Restoration period. He has been assigned mostly to formation work. He was Province Vocations Director and Arvisu House Candidacy Director before being named Superior of the Jesuit Community of Xavier School. At Xavier School, he was Director of Campus Ministry. After tertianship in Australia, he was assigned to San Jose Seminary and served as Director of its Spiritual Pastoral Formation Year program. Before being appointed Provincial, he was the Rector of Loyola House of Studies, Province Delegate for Formation, and Executive Director of the Center for Ignatian Spirituality.
The Center for Ignatian Spirituality (CIS) the spirituality center of the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus. From its beginnings, CIS saw as its mission the formation and training of ministers and agents of Ignatian sprituality. It helps animate and network Ignatian-inspired institutions and ministries in the Philippines and the Asia-Paciic, always seeking to promote the better practice of Ignatian Spirituality in their personal, community, and institutional life.
Fr. Fidel Ma. D. Orendain, SDB
Fr. Fidel is the Provincial of the Province of Mary Help of Christians Philippines South-Pakistan of the Salesians of Don Bosco. From 2001 to 2003, he studied Salesian Spirituality in Berkeley, California. He earned his Master’s in Communication at Georgetown University in Washington DC and his Doctorate in Communications at the University of the Philippines..
He did his ministries in the Formation Center of Talisay-Lawa-an, Don Bosco Technical College (Boys’ Town) and the Provincial House in Cebu. In 2019, he was appointed director of the community of the same Don Bosco Technical College. He served as the President, Dean and Vice President for Academics of Don Bosco Technical College, Cebu. He handled the social communications ministry of the Province for more than 20 years.
Ms. Lesley Anne A. Rosal
A licensed nurse, Lee-An is currently pursuing a PhD in Theology at the Loyola School of Theology, Ateneo de Manila University. She has close ties with the Salesians of Don Bosco as a youth minister of the Salesian Youth Movement, a national youth organization under the Federation of National Youth Organizations of the CBCP’s Episcopal Commission on Youth. She is also a member of the Commission on Vocations of the Salesians, Philippine North Province.
Her previous work experiences include being Campus Minister at the Saint Pedro Poveda College, Quezon City where she was in-charge of the spiritual formation of students from preschool to grade school and those in the Tertiary Department; Online Community Manager of the CBCP’s Year of the Laity in December 2013-December 2014; and Editor-in-Chief and Fulltime Pastoral Worker of the Couples for Christ Foundation Inc.- Family and Life.
Lee-an is currently a part-time instructor at the Theology Department of the Ateneo de Manila University, Don Bosco Center of Studies, and Rogationist Seminary. She has delivered talks since 2018 to various groups of people including the Religious of the Assumption, the National Vocation Directors of the Philippines, University of Santo Tomas Senior High School, the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines and others.
She is a contributor to Youth+: A Source Book on the Filipino Youth published by Don Bosco Press, Makati City in 2023. Her written work is entitled, “Gen Z, Safe Spaces, and Spiritual Accompaniment”.
Nicholson and Francene Chiara Tee
Cai and Nico Tee are full-time Youth Missionaries of the Light of Jesus Family Mega Manila – Feast Youth.
Nico works as the Assistant Youth Director for Creatives and Events for the Feast Youth. Cai used to work with the Bank of the Philippine Islands as Operations Officer. Their family is involved in Truly Rich Makers, a movement on Financial Literacy for Filipinos. They teach young adults how to manage and grow their finances through a group called Investing Millennials.
The Light of Jesus Family
The Light of Jesus Family is an international ecclesial movement founded by the family of Bro. Bo Sanchez, one of the preeminent lay preachers in the Philippines today. Through the LJF, he founded two gatherings, the annual inspirational convention The Feast Conference and The Feast, a Sunday prayer gathering with Holy Mass, lively worship, and series of talks on practical Christian living. Bro. Bo also founded the Truly Rich Club, an online private membership group where subscribers are provided with financial advice on how to invest in the stock market. Today, there are now over 400 Feasts and counting, and what is now known as the Light of Jesus Family already counts more than 20,000 committed members in the Philippines and more in key areas in Asia, Oceania, Middle East, Canada, United States of America, and the Bahamas.