CKMS, Quezon City, Philippines — The Season of Creation 2025 reached a high note as the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) Philippine Central Province, through its Ministry for the Integrity of Creation, recently hosted “Care of Creation.” This spiritual and cultural tribute, held on September 13th, was a profound expression of faith and artistry, bringing the community together to celebrate faith and stewardship while marking the SVD's 150th foundation anniversary.
The day began with a lively Food Festival, a testament to the hard work of our farmers and all who live by the bounty of the earth. With fresh and organic produce taking center stage, the festival, which started at 9:30 AM, welcomed visitors and set a joyful and communal tone for caring for our common home.
The evening culminated in a deeply moving concert at the Diocesan Shrine of Jesus the Divine Word. The night began with a powerful series of dances by “Mga Anak ni Inang Daigdig,” starting with the challenge posed to act in favor of the Earth’s welfare, Idudu of the Tingguian people and concluding with the beloved Tinikling, and the commitment to care for the planet. Their expressive and gifted performance served as a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility as stewards of creation and the beauty of the Filipino soul. The Divine Word Seminary Tagaytay fratres led the assembly in a heartfelt rendition of the Swahili song, "Baba Yetu," a powerful praise to God that further deepened the spiritual atmosphere.
The highlight of the evening was a sacred concerto, a beautiful collaboration brought to life by a team of dedicated artists. The composed texts—"In the Beginning," "Praised be You, O Lord for Your Creation," "Caring for our Common Home," and "Building the Earth"—were penned by Rev. Fr. Beltran SVD. These texts were set to music by Prof. Montet Acoymo, a distinguished Filipino tenor, musician, and former dean of the College of Music at the University of the Philippines. The pieces were performed with great volume, mastery, and intensity by the Christ the King Mission Seminarians and were interwoven with orations from the Mass for the Care of Creation, as promulgated by Pope Leo XIV. The entire performance was elevated by the masterful accompaniment of organist Ms. Nancy Clasara, an accomplished musician and teacher, who is a beloved SVD collaborator with 31 years of dedicated service.
Offered as a free gift to the faithful, the event served as both a spiritual offering and an opportunity to support a vital cause. Donations were welcomed for the renovation of the Buttenbruch building, the main seminary structure. The SVD extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who worked hard for the concert’s success and those who attended, sharing in the moments of prayer and artistry. Through their participation, they contributed to the lasting legacy of art, faith, and a commitment to being stewards of God’s creation.
