“In a Jesuit school, when you turn your work into something great, it’s magis.”

Celebrating the last day of the Ateneo de Davao Fiesta Sadya 2018 in a solemn note, Ateneans participated in the 70th anniversary launching university-wide Holy Mass in the Fr. Martinez Sports Complex, Ateneo de Davao-Junior High School, Matina, Davao City.

In his homily, mass presider Fr. Jessel Gerard Gonzales emphasized Mother Mary’s participation in God’s plan of salvation as the “first believer called to share our Lord’s triumphant son.”

“When Mary said yes, she is saying ‘I will turn my work into something great’,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of this year’s anniversary theme SAFIRE: Seventy Years Afire.

“SAFIRE may also mean Seventy years of Ateneo’s Administration, Formation, Instruction, Research and Engagement,” he added, pertaining to AdDU’s key result areas relative to university’s vision: transformative administration and services, integral formation, excellent instruction, robust research and publication and vibrant engagement.

He also shared two stories that highlighted two points—being “blessed in the Ateneo community” and acknowledging “God’s greatness and plans.”

“Feel blessed and always rejoice in the greatness of the Lord,” he said.

The Holy Mass was concelebrated with other priests of the Society of Jesus like Fr. Michael Pineda, Fr. Manuel Perez, Fr. Ogie Cabayao, Fr. Daniel McNamara and Fr. Ramon Toledo.

The Holy Eucharistic celebration was then followed by a short program participated by all levels, presenting a video of the school’s rich historical background over the years, and showcasing the talents manifested by the students and school personnel.