Canonical Visit of Sr. Maria Leoly Quitorio, F.I. at Manresa School

Manresa School was filled with joy and gratitude as it welcomed the new Provincial Superior of the Hijas de Jesus Indico Pacific Province, Sr. Maria Leoly Quitorio, F.I., during her canonical visit. Her presence brought inspiration and renewed spirit to the administrators, teachers, staff, and students who warmly received her with heartfelt enthusiasm.

The day began with a meaningful encounter during the Grade School flag ceremony. Sr. Leoly addressed the pupils with warmth and simplicity, making her message both inspiring and easy to understand. She emphasized the cherished Maxim of Manresa School, “Tatak Manresa, Kapatid sa Kapwa.” She reminded the young Manresans that being a true brother or sister to others is shown through kindness, respect, and compassion in everyday actions. Her message encouraged the pupils to live out the Manresan identity not only inside the classroom but also in their homes and communities.

In the afternoon, Sr. Leoly met with all subject area coordinators, heads of offices, faculty, and staff for a deeper reflection session centered on the Determination of the 19th General Congregation. She highlighted particularly Numbers 6 and 8, focusing on Filiation and Fraternity. She explained that filiation calls everyone to embrace their identity as beloved children of God, rooted in trust and love for the Father. From this flows fraternity, the call to build relationships grounded in unity, respect, and shared mission.

She further reflected on the Gospel invitation to “be salt and light” in the world. Salt and light may be small, she said, but they are powerful. In the same way, even simple acts of goodness, when done with love, can transform lives. She reminded the community that light begins with compassion, seeing others with the heart of Christ and responding with generosity and understanding.

Sr. Leoly humbly emphasized that the power to make a difference does not come from us alone. “The power is not ours; it is God’s,” she shared. True impact happens when we allow God to work through us. By surrendering to His grace, each member of the Manresa community becomes an instrument of hope, service, and love.

The canonical visit of Sr. Leoly was not only a formal occasion but a spiritual encounter that strengthened the Manresa community’s commitment to its mission. Her words served as a reminder that as one family in Christ, guided by the charism of the Hijas de Jesus, everyone is called to live as compassionate brothers and sisters, small yet powerful instruments of God’s light in the world.

Article by: Mrs. Juliet Ledesma / Photos by: Ms. CJ Sapao, Ms. Luisa Mandario and Mr. John Ashley Jorda