The Association of Schools of the Augustinian Sisters (ASAS) recently concluded a successful RVE (Religion and Values Education) Teachers’ Workshop from January 26 to 28, hosted by La Consolacion College Bacolod. The workshop brought together over 100 participants, including in-person and virtual attendees, from 18 schools run by the Augustinian Sisters of Our Lady of Consolation in the Philippines, with the aim of providing a platform for RVE teachers to exchange ideas and best practices and strengthen their knowledge and skills in teaching religion and values education.
The workshop opened with words of welcome from Sr. Flolyn Catungal, OSA, the ASAS Superintendent, followed by a keynote address from Sr. Niceta M. Vargas, OSA. During the workshop, participants conducted hands-on activities, discussed the significance of RVE in Catholic schools, shared their insights and reflections, and reviewed non-RVE lesson plans to assess their incorporation of Catholic-Augustinian-Marian tenets. The first day ended with a session on the Augustinian Lectio Divina and how to facilitate it effectively for kids, youth, and school personnel, reinforcing the importance of RVE in Catholic schools and the critical role of RVE teachers.
The second day of the workshop opened with an Introduction to the RVE Flipped Classroom presented by Mr. Rodjhun B. Navarro, LCC Bacolod’s VP for Research, Innovation and Linkages, followed by a hands-on session that demonstrated, critiqued, and reviewed the ADIDSE method of teaching, facilitated by Ms. Amelia Amahit. The session provided an opportunity for both in-person and virtual participants to demonstrate their implementation of the ADIDSE method in different grade levels, and to learn from each other and share best practices. The second day concluded with a lively and enjoyable fellowship night where participating schools showcased their talents through a dance, song, or cultural presentation, providing an opportunity for the teachers to bond and get to know each other better. The night was filled with laughter, excitement, and trivia games, and was capped off with a blessing dance participated by everyone.
The final day of the workshop centered on a presentation and critiquing of the proposed RVE Scope and Sequence for Kindergarten, Elementary, High School, Senior High School, and College levels. Participants were asked to provide their suggestions and recommendations to improve the scope and sequence, followed by an overall synthesis. The workshop ended with a Closing Liturgy and Message from Sr. Eden Gicana, OSA, the Superior General of the Augustinian Sisters of Our Lady of Consolation. The closing liturgy was a fitting end to a productive and enlightening workshop, serving as a reminder of the commitment of the ASOLC to the education and spiritual growth of their students.
In conclusion, the ASAS RVE Teachers’ Workshop was a success in meeting its objectives, providing participants with valuable insights, knowledge, and skills that they can use in their day-to-day teaching practices. The workshop reinforced the importance of RVE in Catholic schools and the role of RVE teachers in ensuring that Religion becomes the core of the curriculum.
