Seven jewels of the velada

In this day and age, everything we do must be for a higher purpose. This thought ruminated in my head as I scanned the photos of the recent Assumption homecoming fondly referred to as the annual Assumption velada. It revealed to me the deeper meaning of this unique tradition that brings back Assumption alumnae together years after their graduation from high school. A precious lesson ingrained in their hearts is that being grateful and giving back never, never ends. The transformative education each class received has borne fruits of gratitude and generosity hence the willingness to share.

The snapshots of the jewel batches all captured the dazzling beauty of kindness on that day starting with Diamond Class of 1953, Emerald Class of 1958, Gold Class of 1963, Blue Sapphire Class of 1948, Ruby Class of 1973, Jade Class of 1978 and Pearl Class of 1983. The results of this joyous reunion and such noble fund-raising efforts are their gifts to the many Assumption mission schools located in poorer areas of the country. The yearly support given by these alumnae enables the underprivileged to receive transformative education to uplift their lives and help their families.

Because of the precious bonds sown by the jewels of the velada, Assumptionistas know that they can always count on each other in times of dire need.

Today, the Assumption Alumnae Association is sending out a special plea of assistance because of its mission school in Passi, Iloilo whose entire roof was blown away by monstrous typhoon Yolanda. The school is also being used as an evacuation center, which shelters the homeless members of the community. For this reason the roof must be restored immediately. Sister Jo Concepcion wishes to thank those who are helping them and humbly appeals for cash donations out of the goodness of their hearts.

“Please pray, too, that everyone gives and receives all the help they need,” says Sister Jo. “We all know that this was no ordinary storm.”

It is heartwarming to witness how the true Assumption spirit continues to shine through for others in moments like this.

(You can deposit your financial help directly to Assumption Alumnae Association Inc.’s account at Union Bank-Pasay Road branch in Makati City. Its peso account number is 03-403-001840-88 while its dollar account number is 132-34000061-8 with Swift Code UBPHPHMM. For documentation purposes, please fax your deposit slip to Mely Diaz at 894-3580.)

(Would love to hear from you at miladayjewels@yahoo.com.)

The Assumption Alumnae Association opens today the ONE Assumption Bazaar at the InterContinental Hotel

in Makati City. In this time of calamity, the AAA urges its friends to support this fundraising effort.