In ten years’ time, Canossa House of Spirituality (CHS) will be considered a built cultural heritage according to the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009. In anticipation of such a great opportunity and heeding the call of Pope Francis for integral ecology in Laudato Sí, CHS seeks to be reborn with the:
Vision: a house that prays and praises the lord
Mission: In fidelity to St. “Magdalene’s dynamic intent to be at the service of the whole person [and], to the Christian in the different stages of his/her growth” and in response to the call for integral ecology, the CHS Greening Fund Project commits to:
- Ensure the spiritual continuity of the Canossian charism
- Facilitate God’s self-communication to persons of various ages and socio-cultural backgrounds to inspire a change of heart that will strive for the betterment of society/world
- Renovate the infrastructure of CHS to comply with the Philippine Green Building Code
- Celebrate the natural and spiritual gifts of God by engaging beneficiaries in the renovation and sustainability of CHS
Goal 1: To design the redevelopment of CHS
Goal 2: To raise funds for the redevelopment of CHS
Goal 3: To redevelop CHS
Goal 4: To continue the services for spiritual exercises and incorporate earthwork or earth care activities
On the morning of October 12, 2024, a steady stream of guests arrived at Canossa House of Spirituality. More than 60 people eagerly gathered to participate in the Mass presided by our dear friend, mentor, and co-journeyer, Fr. Francis Gustilo, SDB. He inspired all by connecting creation, the incarnation, the transubstantiation, and the imitation of Our Blessed Mother – rising to our dignity and responsibility as creatures in the image and likeness of God! What a blessing to start off the event with such exhortations! This was followed by the superb project presentation by Architect Jeni Sanchez and her 5th-year student, Roent Pangramuyen. Their creative and professional work generated so much energy that the open forum was very well-participated, serving as clear evidence of their success. Furthermore, the project received its first concrete responses from the generous instant donations of Canossa Academy Lipa Batch 1998 alumnae and Ms. Virgie Malipol, as well as the pledges from Spring Rain Global representatives (led by Dr. Glenda Antonio), and others. The community of Tagaytay and their staff, coordinated by Sr. Cecille del Rosario were exemplary in their hospitality – nourishing both heart and body!
Canossa Berde has begun. All went forth from CHS, filled with hope that this green dream will come true with the help and support of our mission partners and their friends!
