Feature Article
by Mr. Aries Q. Puno
In a world where access to education has remained a privilege, there are still people who go beyond this impediment and bridge the gap. Sister Josefina Maria Magat, r.a., a beacon of hope and inspiration, has dedicated her Golden Jubilee to empowering and equipping learners with the opportunity of a proper education through the establishment of the Golden Jubilee Scholarship Project (Piso para sa Iskolar). From here forward, a hope has been lighted up for those who wish to break through the rocks that imprison them from having a good education.
In Sister Josefina’s heart, the profound beats of passion ignite the souls and rekindle the dreams that she has for every student. With the guidance of the Philosophy of Education, she deeply sees that education is not just about teaching the concepts and imparting knowledge and wisdom, but an opportunity to unravel the boundless potential that lies within the hearts of every learner. Following Jesus and the footsteps of Saint Marie Eugenie, transforming the lives of every individual by breaking the rocks and illuminating the path where each individual can blossom has been her unwavering dedication. Indeed, the sacred journey of liberation where transformative education is the anchor, she truly sees beyond the exteriority of every student and recognizes the innate goodness within them.
In her fifty years in the Religious of the Assumption, the spirit and fire of generosity have been rekindled – allowing every individual to embrace the gratitude and reflection for her service to God. As the community planned for her remarkable celebration of vocation, the gesture of generosity spoke volumes and allowed everyone to see the impact Sister Josefina has made. However, the journey of establishing the fund did not go through an easy path. With every step where she discerned, prayed, and poured her heart for this legacy, she truly sought guidance from God and drew strength from within in finding answers as to how she can make her vocation a legacy of a lifetime. Amidst the uncertainties, these moments had paved a way when the generosity of the learners, specifically the Assumpta Student Board officers (ASB), served as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the foundation of the scholarship fund. Indeed, the Holy Spirit touches our hearts when finding answers to our wonderings.
The ASB officers’ generosity sparked the essence of the idea of the Golden Jubilee scholarship project. It was their initiative that ignited the concept of channeling their earnings from the Assumpta Family Day Income into charitable acts – leading to the idea of establishing the scholarship fund. From this initiative birthed a ripple effect of generosity which inspired others to contribute to the fund.
In Assumpta, every section embraces the noble initiative by generously donating in the scholarship box every day. Behind each donation of the learners, with a minimum of one peso, lies a valuable act of generosity that mirrors a collective compassion and unity in their hearts.
In addition to the generous contribution of the ASB Officers and their fellow Assumptans, some anonymous benefactors have graciously reached out and extended their hearts in becoming part of this meaningful initiative. Furthermore, the TLE Department, alongside with their students in each specialization, radiated their love by donating part of their proceeds during their Family Days Bazaar. Indeed, when one steps forward, others will follow.
Since the beginning, Sister Josefina steadfastly vowed a constant YES to the Father – a vow that is engraved not only in her ring but also within her heart. For Sister Josefina, her Golden Jubilee in the Religious of the Assumption is a testimony of God’s fidelity to a life offered to Him, thus dedicated to serving others and to nurturing the seeds of hope. And as we look towards the future, we know that this legacy would endure, allowing the beacon of light to guide the generations to come.
Just like St. Marie Eugenie may Sister Josefina’s life and our lives be a constant YES to God.
May this inspiration spark generosity in your hearts and may you be part of keeping this legacy alive. If you wish to donate, you may approach anyone in the ATHS community and they will direct you to the Cashier’s Office.
As one family, let us unite in prayers as we celebrate Sister Josefina’s YES to the Father this month of May at the ATHS Chapel.
