SPU Manila kicks-off University Week 2023 with procession
By: Anne Gabrielle V. Mangali | The Paulinian | January 24, 2023
St. Paul University Manila kicked off its annual University Week celebration through a solemn procession on January 24 in honor of its Patron, St. Paul; the Immaculate Conception; and the Santo Niño de Pandacan.
At exactly four o’clock in the afternoon, the Paulinian community gathered in front of the Chapel of the Crucified Christ to begin the event with an opening prayer. The “carrozas” were arranged as follows: the Sto. Niño in front, followed by St. Paul, and the Blessed Mother at the back.
In an interview with Mr. Icon Fernandez, he explained that the reason behind this arrangement is that the Sto. Niño or Jesus is the Good Shepherd, followed by St. Paul, representing the sheep or the community attending the event. And lastly, the Blessed Mother behind the two “carrozas” ensures that all sheep will not stray and will not be separated from the Shepherd.
“It is very timely because the SPC will launch the new congregation theme which is, ‘Jesus, the Good Shepherd.’ Isinabuhay natin ito with this procession,” (“It is very timely because the SPC will launch the new congregation theme, ‘Jesus the Good Shepherd.’ We carried it out with this procession.”) he added.
En route from SPU Manila to the Malate Church, selected members of the Paulinian Liturgical Animators led the people in meditating on the first three Sorrowful Mysteries of the Holy Rosary.
As the community arrived in front of Malate Church, the “carrozas” carrying the three patrons were positioned facing the entrance, from where the Tabernacle is seen. A leader recited a prayer before the Tabernacle. Then, everyone genuflected in adoration and continued praying the Holy Rosary as they headed back to the campus.
Upon arrival, everyone gathered once again in front of the Chapel for the concluding prayers to St. Paul, the Blessed Mother, and Jesus, and lastly, the Paulinian Prayer.To end the program, University President, Sr. Ma. Evangline Anastacio, SPC, thanked the organizers and the attendees of the event, as well as Malate Church and Adamson University for their participation and assistance. To add, she said that it was not yet the beginning of the University Week, but it was a “great way” to introduce the event.
Following the event was a “caridad” or giving of snacks for those who participated.
