120,0000 Manila Students to Read, Study and Share the Bible

The Manila Archdiocesan and Parochial Schools Association (MAPSA), the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila Education System (RCAM ES) and the Philippine Bible Society (PBS) partnered in integrating a dynamic Bible program into the curriculum for 120,000 students in Manila.
MAPSA President, His Eminence Most Rev. Luis Antonio G.Cardinal Tagle, D.D. and PBS General Secretary Dr. Nora G.Lucero signed a Memorandum of Agreement providing Basic Bible modules customized for K to 12 in schools covered by MAPSA and RCAM ES. The historic MOA was entered into on April 9, 2015 at the Archbishop’s Residence, Arzobispo Street, Intramuros and witnessed by Fr. Elpidio Biliran, RCAM ES and MAPSA Human Resources, Formation Officer and Chairman of the Commission on Promotions, Public Affairs and Linkages and Mrs. Esperanza Cartera, PBS Associate General Secretary.
Under the agreement, MAPSA and RCAM ES will use the materials that will be developed through the partnership as part of the member schools’ Religion classes. Ninety two (92) schools are covered by MAPSA while 27 schools are members of RCAM ES. A program of activities will also be provided for the reading, sharing, studying, praying and reflecting on the Word of God.

Bible Clubs will be established to serve as catalysts for upholding the Vision – Mission of the Bible program. For its part, PBS will provide subsidized Biblesfor MAPSA and RCAM ES member schools and will work with MAPSA and RCAM ES in the development of the curriculum that will integrate the Word of God. The program’s four-fold objectives include the following:

• That its vision be made an integral part of this Agreement: “That Christ be Formed… Knowing Christ, Loving Christ, Living Christ”
• To enable the RCAM ES and MAPSA schools to serve as arms of evangelization on proclaiming and witnessing the Kingdom of God.
• To develop modules of Basic Bible lessions customized for K to 12.
• To develop Student Workshops and referencesand provide a Teachers’ Manual to facilitate the lessons on the Bible.

The program aims to produce students who will become missionaries and witnesses of the Word, first in their homes, and then become activein Bibleapostolatein the Parishes. The program also seeks to provide guidelines for schools to become seed bed of vocations and missions.
Reported by: Helen Saldana