Fr. Joel Tabora, SJ, AdDU President, presided over the 2015 College Days opening mass. Photo by Gian Sam

To officially begin the 2015 College Days, a University Mass was held yesterday morning at the Dotterweich Park. The mass was presided by Fr. Joel E. Tabora, S.J., University President, and was attended by the members of the Ateneo de Davao University community.

The first reading was taken from Genesis 4:1-15 and 25. Fr. Tabora talked about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees before and the modern manifestations of hypocrisy that can be seen in the world today.

“Even so you appear righteous to men outwardly, but inwardly are full of hypocrisy and iniquity,” the university president said, reminding the crowd that inner beauty is more important than the outward appearance.

He also called everyone to stay connected to God.

“Allow God to take the initiative to encounter you; just don’t lock the door to your heart to Him,” he added.

Finally, he asked the students not to forget the Lord as the university celebrates this year’s College Days.

“As we celebrate College Days with joy, may we recognize Him in our midst, in our joys.”

Students and teachers filled the park during the Eucharistic celebration.

“Para sa ako, nakabawas sa stress, like nakahinga ko. [I am] feeling blessed,” Desiree Apit, a 1st year Accountancy student, said.

The classes for Monday morning were called off to pave way for the events. The suspension started during the beginning of the mass and ended at 5:40 in the afternoon.