The annual gift-giving event took place on December 28, 29 and 30, 2020 at the Blessed Jose Maria de Manila Courtyard. On each day, 3 barangays from the parishes of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes were served. Monday was for Barangays Saint Peter, Siena and Santo Domingo. Tuesday was for Barangays Paang Bundok, Maharlika and NS Amoranto. Wednesday was for Barangays Salvacion, Lourdes and San Isidro Labrador.
Most recipients dressed in the assigned color for each barangay. All wore masks and face shields. After presenting their coupons at the gate, they were seated on chairs arranged within proper physical distance from one another. Prayers were led by Rev. Fr. Cesar F. Acuin, OFMCap, Parish Priest and Shrine Rector. Brief instructions were given.
While waiting for their turn, each recipient read a brochure explaining the Christmas crèche or belen, which started from Saint Francis of Assisi, founder of the Franciscan Order of Friars Minor Capuchins, the same religious order that takes care of NSOLL. Items in the gift package were 5 kilos of rice, Hamon de Bola and CDO canned goods.
The organizers originally spaced the timing 2 – 3 hours apart. Instead, the process took 30 – 45 minutes per barangay.
Kudos to the ministries involved in the smooth and successful collaboration: Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC), Urban Poor Ministry (UPM), Parish Youth Ministry (PYM), Social Communications Ministry (SOCCOM). As well as to DCPA3, DCPA 4, DCPA 5 , DCPA 7, PPT Auditor, with full support from PPT’s Lay Coordinator.
Thank you to all who contributed in cash and kind: To the suppliers who gave discounts, the donor who provided the rice, to those who extended valuable support. Rev. Fr. Cesar Acuin F. OFMCap, extends gratitude to those who contributed to the second collections the past weeks, ” Mga kapatid, alam kong hirap tayo sa buhay, pero mas maraming nahirapan kaysa sa atin. At kahit konti ay nakapagbigay tayo ng saya sa kanila.”
To the awesome NSOLL Lingkods who tirelessly and cheerfully planned the process, prepared the venue, packed the gift packages and assisted the recipients. Thank you Team NSOLL!
Photo Credits: Mykel Palaganas, Susan Perea, Loida Reyes, Gina de Guzman, Tess Arvisu Graphics: Gina de Guzman
Please visit the photo album on NSOLLQC’s FB page.
Thank you.
#NSOLLPH
