by Clyde Ericson Nolasco
In September 1906, five German Sisters – Mo. Ferdinanda Hoelzer, Sr. Petronilla Keller, Sr. Crescentia Veser, Sr. Winfrieda Mueller, and Novice Alexia Ruedenauer – arrived in the Philippines. They came in response to the request of Apostolic Delegate Monsignor Dom Ambrose Agius, O.S.B. and Archbishop of Manila Jeremiah James Harty, D.D. to fight against Protestantism by offering religious education in Manila.
By December of that same year, St. Scholastica’s College Manila began its long-standing history in what was described as “a windowless wagon-shed free-school.”
It is a blessing to be part of our school's 118-year legacy as we continue to offer holistic formation infused with Benedictine values.
Father JD Zaldivar called the Scholasticans from the congregation during his homily in celebration of the feast of the Holy Child, Jesus | Photo by Clyde Ericson Nolasco
We create leaders for social transformation inspired by the intertwined lives of our twin patron saints Benedict and Scholastica. As early as Grade School, we would introduce to our students the ten Benedictine Hallmarks: Christ-centeredness, community, stewardship, humility, silence and good speech, obedience, discipline, hospitality, service, and stability. Our lessons along with our interdisciplinary modules and extracurricular activities are made sure to be anchored on them.
Recently, I was invited to facilitate the leadership training and teambuilding for our young Scholasticans leaders. Composed of the student council members, the presidents of the clubs and team captains, we spent one Saturday focused on the Benedictine value of stability.
Last November 23, a leadership training and teambuilding was conducted by Clyde Ericson Nolasco, a Benedictine educator and our content manager, for the young leaders of SSC Manila Grade School Unit. | Photos by Ms. Jene Rose Tusi
But what makes the Benedictine hallmark stability a leadership value? How do we introduce it to our young Scholasticans?
In the Benedictine tradition, stability refers to one’s commitment to remain steadfast and rooted in one’s community or relationships even in the face of struggles. Stability is about commitment and resilience encompassing one’s perseverance and dedication.
What can we teach our children to develop commitment and resilience?
Set clear goals - Help our kids to identify short-term and long-term goals. Tracking their progress and achievements build their sense of purpose. A vision board can concretize their dreams and aspirations.
Develop healthy habits - As we say “practice makes permanent,” established routines can allow our young ones to establish good foundations in life even as simple as their sleeping schedule or good study habits.
Avoid giving up - Encourage our kids to persevere through challenges. When tasks seem overwhelming, we can help them by breaking these challenges into smaller manageable parts.
Practice self-reflection - We can introduce journaling or self-observation activities. These can allow our children to evaluate their actions and strive to improve each day.
Manage emotions - Teach our kids to identify and name their feelings whether being happy, sad, worried or otherwise. Teach them coping skills that can keep them calm in times of unexpected adversities.
By fostering these practices, our children can become not just resilient but committed leaders in our community living out the Benedictine hallmarks.
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