Rosary Month devoutly observed in AJHS

A long-held beloved tradition of Ateneo de Manila is the dedication of the entire month of October to the Blessed Virgin Mary- patroness of Ateneo- and to her rosary. Thus, the entire Ateneo Junior High School community-  its students, faculty, and staff- engaged in several activities and events throughout the month, offering prayers and showing their love and devotion to honor our Blessed Mother.

The devotion began with the blessing and distribution of October Medals. A sacred space by the entrance of Kostka Chapel was set up for the purpose, one which included a video presentation about the significance and history of the October medals, along with a brief catechism.  

Throughout October, all AJHS classes prayed the Holy Rosary every day. For their part, the faculty and staff participated in the traditional ‘Block Rosary,’ wherein an image of Our Lady of Antipolo was venerated in their offices and work areas. 

A major highlight of Rosary Month was the AJHS Living Rosary, which was organized by the AJHS Liturgical Committee in collaboration with the Office of Campus Ministry and held on October 11. During the said event, the whole community prayed the Holy Rosary with devotion as representatives of each class and office held a lit bottle and arranged themselves in a formation that resembled the rosary. 

Aside from the said Marian Devotions, the AJHS also observed the Laudato Si Mass in honor of St Francis of Assisi, Scouting Day, Persons Deprived of Liberty Awareness Day, and Mental Health Awareness Week. The Grade 10 CLE classes also participated in a Eucharistic Adoration and offered Prayers for Peace in response to Pope Francis’ urgent request for prayers, in light of the growing tensions in Israel, Palestine, Ukraine, Russia, Myanmar, and in other war-ravaged parts of the world. The community offered their prayers to Christ, along with those of the Blessed Virgin for their intentions regarding these celebrations.

Through their devotion to the Blessed Virgin, the members of the Ateneo Junior High School community hope to be persons for others in the same way that our Mother Mary was during her time on earth. Placing themselves under her protection and intercession, the students, formators, and administrators of AJHS hope to become closer to Christ through His mother. May the prayers of the AJHS Community resound with Mary’s glorious Magnificat, a clear response to the call of love and faith that God so graciously calls us to reply to. 

AM+DG