“Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
The Lord’s Flock Catholic Charismatic Community hosted a Strong Mind Spiritual Seminar: “Hope Lives Here – A Mental Health Seminar” for the Young Adults Group last August 30, 2026 from 9a.m. to 3p.m. at the Heritage Worship and Spiritual Formation Center. It was an awakening seminar that taught the young adult members of the community about emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
Moderator Dr. Edel Patdu was joined by the other Young Adults (YA) Stewards: Judelyn Retiro, Claudine Fontanilla, Joselito Fainsan and Nelson Payos as they welcomed the attendees. On the other hand, Kisshie Millan together with the Psalm & Koros ministry teams led the opening Praise & Worship. Thereafter, Bro. Jolo Baclig (New Generation Steward) facilitated the icebreaker titled “Kamusta ka?” The participants had to look for a partner, and the moderator gave specific guide questions for everyone to get to know one another on a deeper level.
Subsequently, Bro. Jolo introduced the guest speaker, Mr. Rolando “Bro. Rolly/Papa Wow Cortez” – the Founder and President of the Strong Mind Foundation, and an advocate for mental health awareness, depression advocacy, and suicide prevention. He has dedicated years to turning personal struggles into a message of hope, healing and resilience.
After lunch, he led a workshop about “Life’s Realizations” and the Paschal seed which represents the human spiritual journey. To experience a new, divine life, a person must first “die” to their old ways, ego, or suffering. Here are some of inspiring messages from the sharers:
“Life is too short to spend it on resentment.”
“Biggest lesson? Patawarin mo muna ang sarili mo (Forgive yourself first, because healing starts there. Unti-unti (little by little) everything will make sense, and babalik ka (you will go back) stronger, better and closer to your best version.”
“Tumatak sakin sinabi ng speaker (It made an impression on me what the speaker said), na (that) in order to follow Jesus, you need to die not physically but surrender your Life to God, kasi pag may relasyon (because if you have a real relationship with God), magbabago lahat (everything changes) like ma-align decisions natin (our decisions will align).”
Lastly, Head Steward Elvie Tapia and Steward Neil Parreno, presented Bro. Rolly with a token of appreciation and a certificate for conducting the seminar which awakened the young adults’ hearts and minds. A lively group photo was also taken for remembrance.
Indeed, this seminar imbibed among the Young Adults a safe space to talk about emotional struggles while combining their faith with practical healing.
To God be the Glory!
SCRIBES MINISTRY
Written by: Marie Claudine P. Fontanilla (Young Adults Steward)
Edited by: Ma. Vera Tuplano (Scribes Consultant)
