Saint Alphonsus Theological and Mission Institute pride itself with a theological education that is alive and contextual. SATMI breeds theologians who are both capable of reading the signs of times and courageous enough to incarnate the word of God into concrete actions. Responding to the urgent call of Mother Nature, and through the inspiration of Pope Francis’ exhortations, SATMI celebrated the Season of Creation with joyous activities and challenging messages. It was concluded with some highlight activities, among which the tree planting is considered peak.
The tree planting activity was done on September 30, 2019. The entire SATMI community headed by its director, Rev. Fr. Carlos Ronquillo, C.Ss.R. and its Dean of Studies, Sr. Miriam Alejandrino, OSB, went to Barangay Balengaeng, Calinan, Davao City. The Deaf Community of the Redemptorist Parish and Redemptorist Youth Ministry-Davao also participated in this inspiring endeavor. The activity began with a liturgy, reminding everyone of the sacredness of the creation God has blessed his people and also their role in taking care of it. The whole community planted 200 Narra seedlings along the river banks of the aforementioned barangay. Everyone shared a boodle fight and danced merrily to conclude the tree planting activity.
Everyone headed home physically tired but with hearts full of joy. The end of the activity beaconed a consciousness in each one of the importance of creation. The end of the season of creation is the beginning of our journey to heal the wounds of Mother Earth and take care of her, our one and only home – God’s gift to humanity.
PC: Bro.Roel Gutierrez, C.Ss.R