Opening of SATMI new building

On June 15 2009, we finally held the blessing of our new SAT-MI building. It was well attended by different congregations consisting of those who would enroll in the institute and some friends. The new building itself had not been finished. Earlier that day the students were still cleaning the areas in order that it would be presentable enough for the event.

[Students preparing for the opening]

What struck me is what that this building symbolizes. The building was created to cater not only for the growing number of students, but also professors. It showed diversity of nationalities, with different charisms all wanting to heed the call of God.
[Fr Brendan giving the opening speech]

The ceremony began with the speech of the Director of the institute, Fr. Brendan Kelly, he welcomed all who were present. Other speeches followed and the ceremony of blessing which was done simultaneously. There were priests assigned in each floor accompanied by guests and students. [Ribbon Cutting Ceremony]
[Fr Bom blessing a room]

After the blessing, the opening mass for the school year followed. Redemptorist students were assigned to prepare for the mass which included the “band”. This display of talent shows the pool of talent present in the institute. After the mass, dinner followed with informal talks.
[ Opening Mass]

This event really was meaningful in many ways. The building itself has undergone many revisions as during inspection it was found out that there were many flaws. The blessing had already been postponed once. But the most striking of all is that the building changed the surrounding of the “compound” reminding us that life in the Davao community was unlike any other not only because of the presence of the school inside it, but also of the diverse culture it boasts. With much talent, culture, personalities, this really poses a great challenge for the professors, how to be able to convey and inculcate it to the person being taught. How do they do it?

One thing is for sure…this is just the beginning of the challenges we will be facing as the institute continues to grow and evolve.
[No party is complete without the sumptious meal]

(-Natz)