The University of San Carlos, through the collaborative efforts of the USC Campus Ministry, USC JPIA CARE Circle, LUSAD, Misyon! (SVD Lay Partners), and the Carolinian Youth Ministry, with the support of SVD priests, visited the Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC) on December 16, 2024.
This initiative, “USC: A Christmas heartfelt hospital visit to CCMC patients” began with a prayer of gratitude, acknowledging God’s blessings and the opportunity to share His love with those in need.
Carolinian Youth Ministers (CaYM) filled the hospital halls with joyous melodies of Christmas carols, spreading cheer and hope. Meanwhile, SVD priests Fr. Dindo Fallarme, SVD, Fr. Mike Tangenete, SVD, Fr. Roshan, SVD, and Fr. I Wayan Heriyanto, SVD brought to the patients the healing presence of Christ through the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.
As part of the program, the CARE Circle distributed donation bags filled with essential items, sharing kindness and compassion with every patient in the hospital. Preparation for this event was a collective effort, with the CARE Circle actively seeking donations and sponsorships from MLhuillier, the USC JPIA Talent Circle, and the USC JPIAn community.
These efforts resulted in thoughtfully curated donation bags containing meat rolls, assorted biscuits, mineral water, powdered drinks, canned goods, bath soaps, tissue rolls, and other essentials, bringing comfort not only to patients but also to the staff and janitors of CCMC.
The USC Campus Ministry also played a crucial role in securing sponsors for the USC bags that were used to package these donations, supported by donors, namely Gitamondoc-Gopaoco Structural Engineering, Engr. Ramon Gitamondoc and family, Gerard Go and family, Atty. Nidz Miscala, and Vincent Reyes, whose generous support made the mission possible.
The hospital visit serves as a powerful reminder that Christmas is more than just the exchange of gifts—it is a celebration of our Lord Jesus Christ and an opportunity to reflect on His love and teachings. As Matthew 5:16 beautifully reminds us: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Let this initiative inspire others to embody the true spirit of Christmas by becoming beacons of light and hope in the lives of those who need it most.
by Neil James Joromo, BSMA 3