On This Feast of Love and Lifting: Where Mary’s hope gathers us and grace carries us higher.
Every 15th of August, the Assumption community gathers as one—across cities, countries, and continents—to honor the mystery and majesty of our Blessed Mother’s Assumption into heaven. From the quiet pews of the Our Lady of the Assumption Chapel in San Lorenzo, to the warm embrace of gatherings in Los Angeles, Bay Area, Bacolod, Cebu, and Alabang, hearts beat in unison for the Queen of Heaven.
Assumption College San Lorenzo brimmed with grace and warmth as sisters and alumnae from all generations gathered under the beautiful theme “Celebrate with Mary, the Mother of Hope.” The festivities began with a touching Mass, beautifully presided over by Father Ricky Montanez, AA, at the serene Our Lady of the Assumption Chapel. It was a moment that filled hearts with renewed faith and a profound sense of hope.
After the Mass, the community moved to Biyaya Hall in the Henry Sy Building, where the celebration continued over a simple yet delightful meal. Sister Melania led and sang the prayer before meals. Using the tune of Edelweiss in the Sound of Music, it was a lovely and prayerful way to bless and be thankful for the meals. Laughter, stories, and genuine companionship filled the air as the Old Girls reconnected, shared memories, and formed new bonds across generations—proof that Assumption’s spirit of sisterhood and community is strong at all times.
Across the Philippines, the Feast of Our Lady of the Assumption is more than a liturgical event—it is a radiant tapestry of faith, community, and devotion.
In the southern part of the city, specifically in Alabang, the Eucharistic celebration was held at St. James, Alabang. The celebration unfolded with grace and joy, as our Old Girls gathered in prayer, song, and thanksgiving to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary’s glorious assumption into heaven.The faithful stood before a resplendent altar, adorned with golden accents and sacred icons, their hearts lifted in reverence. Clad in hues of purple and white—colors symbolizing penance and purity — they
embodied the spirit of Mary’s unwavering faith and maternal love. The atmosphere was serene yet vibrant, echoing the hope that Our Lady brings to all who seek her intercession.
Meanwhile, in Bacolod City, the celebration was equally moving. The community, united in devotion, filled the church with warmth and laughter. With the priest at the center and parishioners surrounding him in joyful solidarity, the gathering reflected the strength of spiritual kinship. The presence of Our Lady was felt in every smile, every prayer, and every embrace shared among friends and family.
In Cebu City, fondly known as the Queen City of the South, our Assumption Old Girls came together to celebrate the Feast of the Assumption with hearts full of gratitude and joy. The day began with a Holy Mass that reminded everyone of Mary’s guiding presence and the gift of community. Afterward, they gathered for lunch at the Belvedere Room, Circa 1900 in Lahug—a charming venue that added warmth and intimacy to the occasion.
More than just a reunion, Cebu style, it was a celebration of faith, where laughter, stories, and the Assumption spirit created moments that felt like coming home.
Now, let our hearts journey to North America, where the Feast of the Assumption is celebrated with equal devotion and joy. From coast to coast, communities gather in faith, and the spirit of sisterhood shines brightly—especially among the beloved Old Girls, whose celebrations overflowed with grace, unity, and heartfelt reverence.
The AAAA – Bay Area Old Girls came together in San Mateo to joyfully celebrate the Feast of the Assumption with a perfect blend of faith, friendship, and fun. The day began with a moving Eucharistic Celebration with Fr. Mark at St. Gregory Church—an inspiring moment of thanksgiving that set the tone for the day.
From there, the gathering turned into a heartwarming fiesta filled with laughter and camaraderie. Guests enjoyed a get-to-know-you Bingo game that had everyone interacting and bonding, while merchandise, raffle prizes, and special tokens made the occasion extra festive. Voices then soared in song as everyone proudly sang the Assumption School Hymn and Assumpta Est Maria—a moving tribute to the alma mater and, above all, to Mama Mary.
And of course, no Assumption gathering is complete without a feast worthy of celebration! The buffet tables overflowed with
a rich spread—pancit, sisig, baked salmon, Cebu lechon, lumpia, salads galore, and even Ube Flan Cake and Assumption Tarts for dessert. Truly, it was a celebration for both body and soul! The event wasn’t just a typical get-together; it was a beautiful reminder of the Assumption bond that transcends distance. With so much energy, generosity, and love in the air, the Bay Area Assumption Old Girls surely showed that the spirit of “One Heart, One Assumption” continues to thrive.
The AAAA Southern California family joyfully marked the Feast of the Assumption on the 16th of August, with a solemn Mass at Good Shepherd Church in Beverly Hills, beautifully led by Fr. James.
The heartfelt greetings and video messages from Sr. Irene Cecile Torres and Sr. Gertrude Borres uplifted everyone, while Fr. Ed’s reflection on Mary’s Assumption and the gift of the Rosary added depth and meaning to the celebration. The day continued with a joyful gathering filled with good food, shared stories, and laughter that rekindled old bonds. Together, it was also an avenue to raise funds in support of our beloved Silver Jubilarians, High School Batch 2000.
Shifting our wings from the sunny side of California, let’s now go to the breezy North East part of the United States: from the bustling streets of New York City. Then head back to the Pacific side of North America, this time to the scenic charm of Canada’s west coast. The Assumption Old Girls came together to honor Mama Mary with hope, laughter, and belonging.
In New York, the North East Old Girls gathered on August 16 at the Church of St. Agnes for a meaningful Mass filled with thanksgiving and devotion. The celebration continued at Patsy’s Pizzeria, known for the “Best NYC Brick Oven Pizza”. The tables overflowed not just with delicious food, but also with stories, laughter, and the unmistakable warmth of Assumption sisterhood. Even far from home, the Assumption bond shone brightly—proof that love and connection truly transcend distance.
Meanwhile, in British Columbia, the Assumptionistas marked the Feast with a solemn Mass at St. Joseph the Worker Parish in Richmond, BC, gathering in prayer and gratitude. Afterward, they headed to the cozy, home-style Cannery Café in Steveston, where blue wood interiors framed a brunch filled with joy, reconnection, and belonging. The setting was as heartwarming as the company, making the day a beautiful reminder that the Assumption spirit continues to thrive, wherever in the world.
In Philadelphia, USA, where the Religious of the Assumption have a vibrant community of sisters from all over the world, the Feast of the Assumption was celebrated with their signature spirit of simplicity and generosity. In this celebration, the sisters themselves cooked and prepared home-style dishes—proof that love is best expressed not just in prayer, but also in the joy of sharing a meal together. Just as Assumption sisters in the Philippines reach out through guidance and one-on-one accompaniment with students, the sisters in Philadelphia remind us that their mission of presence, care, and community extends beyond the chapel and into the very heart of daily life. Truly, they embody the Assumption spirit of meeting people where they are, with warmth, humility, and love. 💙❤️
The Assumption of our Blessed Mother Mary is not only a celebration of her glory—it is an invitation to us. To rise above what weighs us down. To let faith lift us where fear cannot go. To carry her “yes” into our own lives, so that like Mary, we too may become bearers of God’s light in the world. At the heart of this feast is hope—a hope that does not deny the struggles of life, but dares to believe in God’s promise beyond them. Mary’s Assumption reminds us that our journey is not meant to end in despair or defeat, but in fullness of life with God. She is our Mother of Hope, showing us that even in times of uncertainty and darkness, heaven’s horizon is never far. Her lifted gaze and steadfast trust invite us to walk with courage, to choose hope when the world tempts us to give in to fear, and to believe that God’s love can transform every shadow into light.
This year’s Feast is a call to action: to gather, to pray, to serve, and to say “yes” anew. Whether under the Philippine sun or across oceans, may our shared devotion weave us together into one living hymn of praise.
Always fantastic to see Assumption celebrated by our communities across the globe!