La Consolacion College Bacolod’s Integrated Basic Education Department (IBED) formally opened the new academic year with the celebration of the Mass of the Holy Spirit on July 4, 2025, at the Quadrangle, gathering about 1,700 participants composed of students from Elementary to High School, teachers, administrators, and parents.
Organized by the Center for Spirituality and Mission in coordination with the IBED, the annual Eucharistic celebration seeks the guidance and blessings of the Holy Spirit for the entire school community as they begin another year of learning and formation.
Rev. Fr. Carl Anthony Quinto, an alumnus of the IBED, presided over the mass. In his homily, Fr. Quinto emphasized that “the work of the Holy Spirit is our work too—to get to know Christ.” He reminded the students and teachers alike that their efforts in the classroom and beyond are opportunities to encounter Christ and be guided by the Holy Spirit’s wisdom.
One of the highlights of the celebration was the commissioning of the teachers and administrators of the IBED, reaffirming their commitment to nurture young minds and hearts. The induction of student leaders also took place, marking the beginning of their service to the student body.
Following the mass, Fr. Quinto led the blessing of the campus, asking for God’s protection and grace to be upon the entire school grounds throughout the academic year.
Ms. Ma. Girlie Abad, Head of the Center for Spirituality and Mission, expressed her gratitude during the mass, saying, “The Lord will make our institution holy because of your goodness, because of the presence of each one in the mass.”
The LCC Chorale, composed of both college and IBED students under the baton of Prof. Alexander Romero, led the congregation in singing, adding to the solemnity and spiritual atmosphere of the celebration.
In a brief message after the celebration, Sr. Flolyn S. Catungal, OSA, School President, expressed her appreciation for the students’ reverence and active participation in the mass.
“Let this celebration remind us that we are never alone in our journey. The Holy Spirit is always with us—strengthening us, inspiring us, and drawing us closer to God and to one another as a family of faith. I am truly grateful for the way our students took part in this celebration with such attentiveness and respect,” she said.
Despite the large crowd gathered at the Quadrangle, the event remained deeply solemn and prayerful, reflecting the school’s enduring tradition of beginning every academic year with a blessing.