The Lord’s Flock Catholic Charismatic Community conducted an outreach event in Cottolengo Filipino last August 18, 2024. It was a unity of benevolent actions from twenty-three (23) members of the Good Samaritan Ministry led by Elena Garcia and Baby Salazar (Stewards), Harvest 4 guided by Charmaine Makimkim (Pastoral leader), Touch Ministry headed by Rosalie Gabriel (Steward), Jiesel Garcia from the New Generation, and Joy Valde from Mission Samaria. The outreach brought optimism and hope to the children of Cottolengo through prayer, music, conversations, and meaningful activities that let them experience God’s love and blessing.
Background on Cottlengo
Cottolengo Filipino (St. Luigi Orione) was founded on March 18, 2000, under the auspices of the then Secretary of DSWD and the Apostolic Nuncio in the Philippines. The organization aims to provide effective rehabilitation programs and services to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), to help them become productive and independent while ensuring that they receive love and care. Currently, they support thirty-five (35) children with various disabilities, aged 10 to 36, who have been abandoned, neglected, or have surrendered. Father Carl Volante provided a brief background on the origins of Cottolengo in the Philippines. He expressed sincere gratitude to The Lord’s Flock (TLF) for spending time with the children and for their generous donations.
Activities
The program began with joyful songs and an opening prayer led by Elena Garcia. The children were full of fun and excitement as they joined in glorifying the Lord by dancing and raising their hands.
The Ministry members interacted with the children through a small group activity. They played, sang praise and worship songs, held hands and offered warm smiles. The children also showcased their talents in a performance that delighted the guests. They were full of energy and were eager to give their best.
A healing session was also facilitated by the Touch Ministry. Rosalie Gabriel offered a heartfelt prayer for the children, asking the Lord for their safety and health. With the participation of Harvest 4, oil was gently applied to the children’s foreheads.
Donation
Various donations were sourced by the Ministries to generously fulfill the wish list of Cottolengo. The food donation was blessed by Baby Salazar, offered to Ms. Almira Perez, and then placed in the Refectory. Rosario Fadrigalan from GSM provided medicines and pasta; Harvest 4 contributed canned goods, sacks of rice, and noodles; Mission Samaria donated pork, chicken, cream dory, sleep wear, and diapers. Anonymous donors gave medical supplies, detergent soaps, shampoos, diapers, and sacks of rice. All these items were properly handed over to Ms. Almira and Father Justin Bamouni.
Ms. Almira also toured the guests to the various facilities and the rooms of the children. She explained how they care for each child with enthusiasm and affection. Although the work is challenging, their genuine commitment to serve and their compassion for the children inspire them to continue.
The outreach event at Cottolengo Filipino was a heartwarming display of harmony and generosity. The success of the event demonstrated TLF’s commitment to extend acts of kindness that make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need.
To God be all the Glory!
SCRIBES Ministry
Written by: Lizel Narvaez
(The Good Samaritan Ministry)
