ICP Gilean Ministry holds Paralympics, promotes community building for PWDs

By Sr. Babi-An Pepito

Twenty-six persons with special needs participated in the Paralympics organized by the Gilean Ministry last September 13, Saturday, at the St. Peter Baptist Covered Courts of the Holy Rosary Major Seminary, Naga City. The event began with a mass presided by Fr. Jaime Danilo Viola, Ministry Director. In his homily, Fr. Viola highlighted the importance of sports not only in physical fitness but also in character development, specifically in fostering teamwork and discipline. He also called on the participants to “always listen to Jesus and Mary” and to nurture spiritual teamwork as they practice their faith. 

After the mass, participants engaged in three games: Bocce, Badminton and Scrabble. Bocce, a lawn bowling sport, involved three teams of four players each. Players quickly enjoyed mastering the skill of rolling balls close to the target, known as the pallino. Team A emerged as the Bocce champions. The Badminton competition featured three singles matches. While all players were new to the game, their enthusiasm was highly commendable. The final game, Scrabble, had four players competing in a word-building challenge. Despite the difficulty, all players persevered in an hour of friendly competition. All winners and participants received medals, certificates and gifts. 

The half-day event, which emphasized inclusion and the joy of participation and community spirit, was organized by the Gilean Ministry of the Immaculate Conception Parish in Naga City, headed by Dr. Ma. Asuncion Quimlat, with special participation of Mr. Gil Alimasa, Gilean Ministry Coordinator of St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Camaligan. The games were facilitated by Mr. Mellard Japson and Mr. Arnel Valle. The Sisters of the Little Mission for the Deaf were also present during the said event.