The recent 2012 Assumption Homecoming was an extraordinarily special, meaningful and unforgettable one because the Silver Jubilarians, Assumption College high school Batch 1987, prepared not just a spectacular dance program. Armed with a deep spiritual purpose, they were determined to communicate a powerful message of renewed faith that inspired all their guest performers — the Pearls, Jades, Rubies, Gold, Sapphires, Emeralds and Diamonds as well. Taking to heart this carefully chosen theme brought out the best in all of them.
Three years before they even planned their velada performance, the traditional two-hour song-and-dance show, the members of Batch ‘87 decided to prepare themselves spiritually first, through a special Lenten retreat in April 2009. This was their gift to one another. It was their way of reuniting, forging that unbreakable bond that would keep them together through thick or thin, not just as friends but as sisters in Christ.
The members of this batch, who chose Pananampalataya as their high school graduation theme, prioritized a life of prayer. Their being prayerful bore fruit as they embarked on a series of spiritual activities that included four batch recollections on Assumption spirituality, over 20 prayer meetings, outreach programs and meaningful fundraisers that enabled them to gift the Assumption mission schools with funds to support the transformative education of less privileged children.
Divine guidance boldly led them to choose “Faith” for their velada theme. As Yvonne Romualdez said in her opening spiel, “Assumption empowered us with the confidence to make a difference. Assumption taught us to go beyond ourselves, to live for others. Assumption taught us not only to know, love and serve God, but to make Him known, loved and served. Yes, Assumption taught us that with God on our side, all things are possible, but only if we have faith.” Hence, the title of their velada was “Faith Fully AC.”
Their message was loud and clear. They could not have chosen a better, more timely one. Coincidentally, Pope Benedict XVI declared this year as the Year of Faith. The members of Batch ‘87 did not know this when they planned their velada so it became a clear manifestation that they were on the right track. Also the date (Oct. 21) of the velada itself was the day St. Pedro Calungsod was canonized because of his persevering spirit and deep abiding faith.
Each meaningful number was spirit led and carefully chosen. Graceful Jubilarians “shadow danced” through the Assumption San Lorenzo gates, chapel, hallways and classrooms leading to the Mother Rose Auditorium where we all converged to watch them perform. They emerged on stage in sleek silvery costumes with silver appliques in their hair to celebrate faith as an opening number. And what better way to do it than dance to George Michael’s Faith. They danced and sang with their hands clasped together. That number was their prayer of gratitude and praise, from beginning to end.
The velada presented four “cliques,” which revealed their acceptance, respect and unity despite their diversity. They had “New Wavers,” “Girly Girls,” “Rock ‘n Rollers” and the “Kikay Nerds” in a lively dance medley.
Their finale number was soulfully hair-raising as they sang True Colors and When You Believe. They sang and danced for God and the many miracles and blessings He gave them.
Their show ended in jubilation with Firework by Katy Perry. They brought the house down with incessant screams interspersed with tears of remembrance, pure joy and laughter. Their classmates who had gone ahead to heaven and those who were abroad were certainly not forgotten but honored through powerful videos. Their spirited messages touched our hearts and made us proud of these fellow Assumptionists.
Their endless appreciation goes to multi-talented choreographer Maribeth Bichara who gave so much of herself in mentoring and caring for them through out the rigorous rehearsals. Maribeth was excellently assisted by Reigh Sy.
Congratulations Batch ‘87 for a very inspiring performance. You are indeed women of faith, women of action, women of prayer!
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