The year 2020 brought its fair share of calamities to the Philippines. Apart from the pandemic, the country was hit by two catastrophic typhoons which wreaked havoc in different parts of Luzon, leaving a lot of our brothers and sisters without shelter.
We can’t help but remember what MC President Amb. Laura Q. del Rosario shared in her Advent message to the community: “Many hope that the spirit of Christmas will bring light in the midst of darkness.” And light is definitely what one alumni batch – GS 1985/HS 1989 – gave to families from Montalban, Rizal whose homes were destroyed by Typhoon Ulysses. Their class project called “Project Bethlehem” allowed them to rebuild these damaged homes, once again giving the families a reason to remain hopeful this Christmas.
Class representative of batch GS 1985/HS 1989 Carla Corona Castillo shares the following about their project:
“Maryknoll HS89 GS85’s PROJECT BETHLEHEM was an ambitious endeavor for us given the time constraints and the effects of the pandemic, but we set a goal to help those whose houses were badly damaged or totally destroyed during Typhoon Ulysses so they could rebuild their homes by Christmas.
Yesterday we were able to turn over everything on the wishlists of 11 families of community-based rehab workers and patients in Montalban, Rizal from various barangays. Aside from that, another 19 families from an area they call Dike were given roofing material, etc.
Thanks to our generous donors, not only were we able to provide building materials for their homes, but 200+ noche buena packs and assorted household items, books, toys and clothing as well. Pan de sal, yogurt and snacks were also handed out to the families present.
Aside from these, a community in the area was connected with a local foundation to provide 250 care packs which were delivered earlier this week.
All in all, I think we surpassed our expectations for Project Bethlehem. We hope we were able to do our bit to make theirs a merry Christmas 😊”
Maryknoll College 1969 class representative Rose Bautista said it best. “We salute MCHS 89 for the success of their Bethlehem Project. What an appropriate name for an inspiring story of their offering of shelter for Montalban families for the Infant Jesus who Himself had no place on which to lay His head except for the lowly stable. God's blessings be on you and your loved ones for making His love visible this Christmas season!” Congratulations, GS 1985/HS 1989! Continue to let your light of love and compassion shine through.