Role Models and Mentors: A meaningful encounter with the Challenge Club Members

A child grows up to be a person of good moral character when he is constantly exposed to good role models who encourage the child to emulate the different virtues and values.

Last January 25, Mano Amiga students had the chance to learn more about the inspiring life of St. Agnes, with the help of their volunteer big sisters from the Everest Academy Challenge Club.  

Challenge Club is a club for girls ages 9-16 years old from all over Metro Manila. Headed by the Regnum Christi Movement, it aims to help members grow in virtue, friendship and Catholic faith.

“St. Agnes is the patron of young girls because she is known for the virtue of purity and unwavering faith. We celebrate her canonization every year through various meaningful activities. This year, we invited the scholars of our sister school, Mano Amiga to join us in the celebration.” Ms. Kitchie Pingol, Challenge Club coordinator.

Aside from finding wisdom from St. Agnes’ life through prayer, song and dance activities, the Challenge girls also arranged a soccer tournament for the Mano Amiga Grade 2 scholars. “The day proved to be a spiritual and educational trip for the students.  Not only were they able to play freely, run as fast as they can, and cheer their teammates and friends; the activities also enhanced their social skills by freely interacting with their Ates (big sisters). The students were shy at first but after all the challenges they did together they slowly gained confidence.” Grade 2 Homeroom Teacher Mary Anne Dela Cruz

“Ang saya saya po namin! (We truly enjoyed it!) We played soccer and other games with kids. Masaya po kami na marami kaming natutunan tungkol kay si St. Agnes (We enjoyed learning more about St. Agnes” Grade 2 scholar Angel Canossa.

The Everest big sisters for the day shared a meal and small tokens of gratitude with their new friends from Mano Amiga. “It was fun sharing food with the kids. They loved the games so much and they all look so happy when we started distributing our humble gifts.” One of Challenge Club members Amara Abiog

“More than helping them, we hope we inspire them to continue to be better Christians as much as they inspired me and the other [Challenge Club] members to continue living our faith and being an agent to transform other young girls to love Christ.” One of Challenge Club members Raven Garcia. In turn, the scholars gave their personally made letters to thank Challenge for celebrating St. Agnes’ Day with Mano Amiga and for another glorious activity.