News

A local elementary school concluded a weeklong community outreach program Friday, aimed at providing spiritual education and activities for children in one of the city's neighborhoods.

Capitol Center Seventh-day Adventist Elementary School Inc. conducted its annual Vacation Bible School from April 19 to 24 in Sitio San Roque, Barangay Capitol Site. 

The annual initiative, authorized by the barangay council, introduced activities that brought a message of hope, faith, and purpose to the children's hearts.

The program gave the children meaningful experiences in which they learned about Jesus through songs, Bible stories, and other educational yet spiritual activities. 

The community received the initiative warmly. They supported the children’s eagerness to join the class. 

Even Brgy. Councilor Matt Vergara, who attended the program's culmination, noted the initiative's impact on the community’s families.

"It is a privilege to witness such a program in our area," Vergara said, sharing that his own grandchildren were among the participants. 

He said the children learned new skills as they came to know Jesus personally.

The sessions included learning new songs, coloring, storytelling, and memorizing Bible verses. Missionary teachers led the daily sessions, which organizers said were designed to promote spiritual growth and character development outside a traditional classroom setting.

Daylinda C. Cleto, one of the program’s organizers, said that she and the staff were surprised by the children's level of engagement.

"The children showed a genuine hunger for learning and spiritual growth," Cleto said. "Even the youngest participants were able to quickly absorb the lessons and participate in the activities."

The program ended Friday afternoon with a closing ceremony celebrating the students' progress. School officials described the outreach as an investment in the community's youth.

“The laughter, the songs, the verses learned, and the stories shared will echo in their hearts long after the program has ended,” a facilitator said. 

She also added that the outreach stands as proof of what can happen when compassion meets purpose. It is a living example that when church members invest in children's lives, they help shape their futures.

Deomar D. Macabugwas ⎸ Capitol Center SDA Church