Renewing and Rekindling 2024: Fueling the Flames in Parent-Child Relationships

The Grade 7 and 8 students of MGC New Life Christian Academy (MGCNLCA) enjoyed a successful Renewal and Rekindling Session (RnR) with their parents at the school auditorium and gymnasium last February 8 and 20, respectively. 

RnR is held yearly by the Guidance and Testing Center to maintain and improve relationships between parents and children through activities, games, and messages from special speakers.  Nazareth students shared their RnR experience with their moms, while the students from Berea enjoyed the event with their dads.

Elizabeth Yu, a mother who has been  in the MGCNLCA community for 20 years, gave a message in the Grade 7 session on how to become a better mother. This was then followed by a mother-child encounter activity facilitated by alumnus Shaina Cua, which entailed simple activities that allowed both mother and child to bond and get to know each other better.

Meanwhile, Berea students commenced their day of relaxation and bonding with their fathers with an insightful talk from Pastor Jebo Banzuelo on the essence of fatherhood and the rejuvenation of father-child relationships. The day concluded with a series of engaging games that encouraged teamwork among fathers and children, fostering connections not only within each family but also among other parents and children present.

“I am humbled and grateful to be given the opportunity to spearhead such an event that allows students to connect with their mothers and fathers. At the same time, it is a delight to see children and mothers and children and fathers smiling and having such a good time with each other,” reflected Praise Belmonte, the Grade 7 and 8 Guidance Counselor.

“I liked the intentional attention that the school gives to the dads and the students to come together. It's something that sometimes, in the busyness of life, you miss it. So, it's a great reminder that once in a while, the school helps us put things into focus,” said Jeremy Tan, whose child is in grade 8. 

“I think it’s really good that they’re able to bring all the dads together and help you connect to your family members,” commented Madison Yu of Berea C. Her father, Manalito, meanwhile, remarked that he felt the message of Pastor Banzuelo was relevant to his parenting and had helped him communicate with his daughter.

“The program is nice and okay, as we were able to bond with the kids. The talk is good and very relevant, and the games are very good [because] it has to be the father and the children cooperating,” mentioned Solon Sy, parent of Sophia Sy from Berea.

Maribeth Jullian Tiong of Grade 8 shared that the RnR with dads has been a new and exciting experience for her. She noted that it helped bring her and her father closer as they spent time together throughout the day. Her father, Winston agreed that the activity has encouraged him to not only build a better relationship with his daughter but also with his fellow parents. 

“The speaker said that it was very important to communicate well to be able to understand each other's feelings and I think now, after what she said, my mom (and I) have been able to talk more about what we feel, and have been able to communicate more,” claimed Gianna Tan of Nazareth B.