On April 3, 2025, a total of 108 school administrators gathered at the multi-purpose hall of the Lay Formation Center, San Carlos Pastoral Formation Complex, to participate in the annual Lenten Recollection organized by the Catechetical Foundation of the Archdiocese of Manila (CFAM). This yearly event is a much-anticipated occasion prepared with great care and dedication, aimed at providing a meaningful and unique spiritual experience for the public-school administrators within the Archdiocese of Manila—our valued partners in the catechetical ministry.
This year’s recollection was facilitated by Mr. Lito de Guzman, an inspiring and seasoned speaker who lives out the Focolare Spirituality and serves as a member of CFAM’s Board of Trustees. A psychology graduate from Ateneo de Manila University, Mr. De Guzman drew from his extensive background in Human Resources, his deep spirituality, and his positive approach to family life to offer a profound reflection on the theme “Using Positive Psychology in Understanding Hope.”
His talk seamlessly integrated both psychological insight and spiritual wisdom, offering participants realistic and relatable challenges. Key points from his talk included:
- The PERMA-H Framework – Mr. De Guzman introduced the principles of Positive Psychology through the PERMA model (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment), expanded with Health to form PERMA-H. He encouraged school leaders to embody this model both in their personal lives and within their schools.
- True Prayer from the Heart – Emphasizing that prayer should flow naturally from the heart, he described it as a living dialogue with the Father, not just an intellectual exercise. He challenged participants to make God’s commandments their daily habits and allow themselves to be molded in His image.
- The Beauty and Cost of Discipleship – He reflected on the spiritual journey, particularly the call to remain hopeful during times of abandonment and struggle—moments that demand deep faith and perseverance.
- The “212 Degrees” Concept – Drawing inspiration from the idea that water boils at 212°F, he urged participants to go the extra mile, push beyond their comfort zones, embrace transformation, and reframe their mindset toward a more Christ-centered outlook in all areas of life.
To deepen the impact of the reflection, participants engaged in a dyad sharing during the health break, fostering personal connections and internalization of insights.
Before the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, participants engaged in a spiritually enriching activity entitled “Magpaa, Magpasan, Magsalya.” This powerful, experiential reenactment of the Traslacion of the Black Nazarene featured a solemn walking procession, during which participants walked on foot, carrying the cloth “nakasalya” on their shoulders. The activity culminated in the symbolic washing of the feet, deepening the reflection on service, and humility
The recollection concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Fr. Carlo Magno S. Marcelo, CFAM Minister. Rev. Fr. Edric Bedural, CFAM Assistant Minister, delivered a heartfelt homily highlighting the Traslacion as a profound religious journey and a powerful symbol of faith, hope, and devotion. Drawing from the reflections of Cardinal Jose Advincula, Fr. Edric emphasized that the Traslacion serves as a striking local image of synodality—a vivid expression of the Archdiocese of Manila’s synodal spirituality. He left the assembly with a compelling challenge: to move beyond maintenance and embrace a mission-driven faith.
Before the event concluded, participants were treated to a sumptuous lunch. Certificates of attendance and souvenirs—a comfort cross—were distributed as everyone enjoyed the photobooth, capturing moments to remember the day by. The joy on each participant’s face was unmistakable, a beautiful testament to a Church united in hope, journeying together toward the fulfillment of God’s purpose in their lives.
GALLERY
