Silver Jubilee
The St. Mary Euphrasia Integrated Development Foundation Inc. (SMEIDFI) recently marked its Silver Jubilee, with an event that celebrated its humble beginnings, milestones, and vision for the future. The celebration, held at the St. Bridget School Auditorium in Quezon City last January 18, was attended by hundreds of guests, partners, program participants, sisters, and lay partners who have been part of SMEIDFI’s journey over the years.
The Life of Shepherding
Since its inception in 2000, SMEIDFI has been journeying with vulnerable and at-risk women and children, focusing on promoting their rights and welfare and creating violence-free communities. The foundation and its 13 member agencies, including centres for women and children, Indigenous people, and rural and urban poor, remain committed to spreading the message of love and compassion.
Highlights of the Anniversary Event
The anniversary event featured heartfelt speeches from key figures, including Sr. Susan Montano, Province Leader of the Good Shepherd Sisters (Philippines-Japan), and the current chairperson of SMEIDFI, who reflected on the foundation’s mission and vision and honored the key people who have contributed to SMEIDFI’s achievements.
The event also included cultural performances from program participants, a video presentation showcasing the foundation’s humble beginnings, growth, impact, and a special awards ceremony to honor individuals and organizations who have supported and contributed to SMEIDFI’s success.
The biggest highlight of the event was the thanksgiving mass celebrated by His Excellency, Bishop Elias Ayuban Jr., C.M.F., the newly appointed bishop of the diocese of Cubao. His presence and homily added spirituality to the celebration, emphasizing the foundation’s commitment to mercy, compassion and service.
Looking Ahead: A Year of Celebrations
The Silver Jubilee program is just the beginning of a year-long celebration that will include various activities and initiatives aimed at promoting SMEIDFI’s programs and services. These activities will focus on SMEIDFI’s six priority issues: Girl-child, Human Trafficking, Prostitution, Economic Justice, Forced Migration, and Integral Ecology.
As SMEIDFI embarks on its 25th year, it remains committed to its vision of a society transformed in Jesus Christ, where there is fullness of life for all beings. The foundation looks forward to more years of growth, collaboration and service, sustaining impact on the lives of its program participants and their communities.
