AJHS celebrates Easter joy with Lux in Domino Mass

The Ateneo de Manila Junior High School (AJHS) gathered together in a spirit of thanksgiving and generosity as they celebrated the Lux In Domino Mass during the Easter Octave on 23 April 2025, marking a time of reflection and hope for the school community. The mass, led by Reverend Fr Xavier L Olin SJ, Provincial Superior of the Society of Jesus in the Philippines, was a powerful reminder of the resurrection of Christ and the promise of new life that Easter represents.

In the introduction to the Mass, the AJHS family was invited to relish the significance of the Easter season as a time to reflect on the journey the school community has undertaken over the past year, bearing the experiences of both joys and challenges, growth and grace. To continue being “Light in the Lord,” the AJHS family was encouraged to carry the lessons of compassion, courage, and service into the world- especially in the face of darkness- and to also ensure that the mission of Jesuit education- fostering persons for and with others- continues to thrive.

In his homily, Fr Olin reflected on the story of the walk to Emmaus, where two disciples, burdened by grief and confusion after Jesus' death, unknowingly encounter the risen Christ. He highlighted how Jesus meets them in their sorrow, listens without judgment, and walks with them patiently, eventually revealing himself in the breaking of bread. The disciples’ journey is paralleled with AJHS life experiences, reminding everyone that Emmaus is not a place but a spiritual moment where we encounter Jesus especially in times of struggle. The homily also called everyone to imitate Christ by being faithful and consoling companions to others, just as Pope Francis exemplified through his compassion and outreach. Fr Olin concluded with a challenge to accompany others with courage and presence, walking with them in love and hope.

As part of the mass celebration, attendees were invited to participate in a special love offering, with all funds going to the AJHS Scholarship Fund Drive. This initiative supports the school’s mission of providing Jesuit formation and education to students from the peripheries, particularly to those who demonstrate academic promise and a commitment to service yet face financial challenges. The scholarship and financial aid program enables deserving students from public schools to join the AJHS community as Grade 7 students, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent them from receiving a life-changing education.

The celebration also marked a poignant moment for Grade 10 students, who are nearing the completion of their Junior High School journey. They were encouraged to carry forward the values of light, bearing the compassion, courage, and hope which have been instilled in them during their time at AJHS, especially to those in the peripheries.

The service was graced by the presence of Reverend Deacon Rico J Adapon SJ, along with other Jesuits: Fr Edryan Paul J Colmenares SJ (Phil), Fr Thep Sarayuth SJ (Thailand), Fr Michael Rossman SJ (USA), and Fr Mamert B Mañus SJ, the AJHS School Chaplain. Together, they led the AJHS community in worship, concluding the mass with a joyful hymn of praise for the Risen Lord. 

May our hearts overflow with gratitude for the gift of salvation.

AM+DG