The Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) celebrated its 80th Anniversary and CEAP Day exactly on its Foundation Day Anniversary last February 2, 2021.
The CEAP @ 80 Adhoc Committee organized activities that were live streamed via the official CEAP Page on Facebook and CEAP Channel on YouTube. The event started with an Opening Eucharistic Celebration presided by Most Rev. Daniel O. Presto, D.D., Bishop of San Fernando La Union, and Member of the CBCP- Episcopal Commission of Catechesis (ECCE). Bishop Presto mentioned that the celebration of the CEAP’s founding anniversary has become more significant as it falls on the same day as the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple. He gave a substantial homily as he elucidated the meaning of the presentation of Jesus in the Temple. At the same time, he explained how CEAP was founded and how the organization has developed throughout the years. He also mentioned the three-fold mission of man which he receives upon Baptism. Bishop Presto emphasized that Catholic educators need to hold fast to their faith, work together, and continue doing their priestly, kingly, and prophetic missions amidst the global health crisis.
The mass was followed by the Welcome Remarks of the CEAP President, Sr. Ma. Marissa R. Viri, RVM. Sr. Viri reminded the member- schools of the continuing tasks of sharing in the evangelizing mission of the church.
Fr. Thadeu Enrique N. Balongag, Chair of the CEAP@80 Committee and CEAP Vice President, provided an overview of the CEAP@80 celebration by explaining the logo and the rundown of the activities for the year. Fr. Balongag added that CEAP re-commits itself to affirming and strengthening its mission, institutionalizing programs that respond to the call of its mission, and enjoining individuals and member- institutions to take part in the cause of its mission.
Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, CEAP Secretary, presented the CEAP attendees by region. It was followed by an Inspirational message from Fr. Alain P. Manalo, OIEC Secretary for the Asian Region. Fr. Albert N. Delvo, CEAP Treasurer, discussed the Response: A Call for Action. The program ended with the singing of the CEAP Hymn: Huwarang Katoliko.
PRESENCE AS PRESENTS: EMBRACING OUR EVANGELIZING MISSION BY INSPIRING, WITNESSING, AND SANCTIFYING