An encounter with faith: Grade 6 Ateneans "Meet the Jesuits"

The following reflections were written by two Grade 6 students who participated in the recent “Meet the Jesuits” activity. In their personal accounts, they share what they learned, felt, and discovered about Jesuit life, faith, and service, and how the encounter inspired them in their own journeys of faith.

Curiosity, questions, and a closer look at Jesuit life

My experience during the “Meet the Jesuits” event is one I will never forget. On 27 November 2025, the entire Grade 6 batch walked to Singson Hall after watching a video about the Jesuits in the classroom. I was inspired as I watched that video.  It made me more curious and interested about the lives of Jesuits and if I wanted to become one too. Most of the grade 6 students were excited to meet them because we get to see them with our own eyes and even get to talk with them and ask a few questions. 

After we were all settled in our respective seats, we started with a prayer.  Then Brother Bien, Brother Jeff, Brother Gerard and Kuya Miguel introduced themselves and talked about their experiences. We got to learn their typical schedules, what they do for fun, important rules they have to follow and lots of other things that I found quite interesting. We found out that Jesuits don't just pray; they study Math, Science, Astrology, compose music, and even play instruments.  

They shared a whole lot more about our school saint, St. Ignatius of Loyola through a video and 4-pix-and-a-word type of game. Everyone wanted to participate because every time someone gave a correct answer, the student got a cool sticker. 

Then we had a Question & Answer portion with them. We were able to ask a lot of questions but there was too little time for our brother Jesuits to answer all of them.  There were just too many questions from the students. Still, we were able to learn a lot more about them, like why they wanted to become Jesuits, if they're having fun, if they ever thought about quitting, what they would be if they weren't Jesuits, how close they are to God, how it was like leaving everything behind including their own family, what their favorite Bible verse is, and how they had to live in poverty sometimes.  All of these inspired me to follow God more and maybe, become a Jesuit like them. Meeting the Jesuits was truly an unforgettable experience.  

                                                                                                      -Rafa Lim (6–De Brito)  

Finding joy, purpose, and faith in simple acts of service

The “Meet the Jesuits” activity inspired me and made me feel thankful. Listening to their stories showed me how much they love God and how willing they are to serve others. I felt touched by their simplicity and kindness. They made me realize that following God can give a deep kind of joy. I also learned that serving God does not have to be big or grand, and that even small, good actions matter. Their faith made me reflect on my own life and how I can grow closer to God. I felt calm and encouraged when they talked about trusting God in all things. Their sacrifices showed me that true happiness comes from giving and helping. I realized that God can call anyone, even ordinary people, to do something meaningful. The activity made me appreciate the Jesuits and all the good they do. It also reminded me to be more grateful and prayerful. I felt hopeful after listening to them. This activity helped me see that living with purpose and faith makes life more beautiful.  

                                                                                   -Christopher John Manalo (6-Regis)