Finding God’s Light at University Residence Hall’s TANGLAW

Now, I know why, even facing death, Jose Rizal said his happiest days were at the Ateneo.

On December 10, 2023, the Dorm Community gathered for  TANGLAW 2023: The University Residence Halls (URH) Community Christmas Fellowship at the Leong Hall.

The celebration started with a Holy Mass presided over by University President, Fr Roberto “Bobby” Yap, SJ. Fr Bobby reminded the attendees, URH dormers and officials, of the companionship that can be found in the Ateneo dorms and how this can be a powerful support. It is in this friendship that God works His miracles.

Everyone went to the Leong Hall Roofdeck for a night of fellowship and gathering.

In his opening remarks, VP Rudy Ang recalled how Atenean dormers share a special bond that allows them to be there for each other both in good times and in times of need. It is this bond that propels Atenean dormers to help each other and their fellows.

This remark is seconded in the speech of AVP Rina Simpas. Fresh from meeting Pope Francis himself, AVP Rina Simpas nuanced how the activities of the URH help Atenean dormers in their shared duty of being persons for others. A timely call on the 50th anniversary of Fr Arrupe's "Persons for Others" speech.

TANGLAW also allowed Atenean dormers to destress by having sumptuous meals and joyful games that feature various Philippine provinces and make use of teamwork, a trait honed by the special bond dormers have with their dorm mates. 

The event also became an opportunity for URH dormers to show off their talents, as special performances by members of the Ateneo Resident Students Association (ARSA), the Dorm Mass Volunteer Choir, and the ARSA Dance Troupe were witnessed and enjoyed by all.

December 10, 2023, was my happiest day at the Ateneo. On that day of solemnity, fellowship, and companionship, God worked one of His miracles. I saw His light, His Tanglaw. 

I am happy to be an Atenean. I am happy to be a URH Dormer. I am happy to be at home.

Jack Lorenz “JLove” Acebedo Rivera 

JLove is a 4 BS Psychology Student

Eliazo Hall Dormer