18/05/2026
WE ARE GOD’S FAMILY: Launching the Institutional VCS 2026 at Barangay Aurora
"We come to you today not just as teachers and students, but as members of a larger family."
Aldersgate College, Inc., through the ACCESS (Community Extension and Social Services) Unit, officially opened its Institutional Vacation Church School (VCS) 2026 in the welcoming community of Barangay Aurora, Quezon, Nueva Vizcaya. Guided by the profound theme, “We Are God’s Family,” the multi-day mission formally set its roots to nurture faith, fellowship, and love among the local youth.
An Anchored Start in Prayer
Before setting out for the mission field, the entire delegation gathered on the college campus with a shared spirit of devotion. The School Chaplain, Rev. Arvie P. Estabillo, MDiv, MACE led the group in a powerful sending-forth prayer, lifting up the team for safe travels, successful implementation of the modules, and continuous spiritual blessings and strength for all the facilitators as they step into their roles.
A Community Welcomed in Faith
Upon arriving at the destination, the institutional extension activity commenced with an inspiring opening program, bringing together community leaders, families, and eager young learners. The gathering was formally opened with a warm welcome address from Hon. Hector Sobrepeña, who gracefully represented the Barangay Captain and expressed the community's joy and support for this holistic partnership.
A Purpose-Driven Mission
Following the local leadership's greeting, Prosperita Marites A. Matterig, ACCESS Director, delivered a powerful message detailing the heart and purpose of the mission. She passionately emphasized to the parents and children that “We Are God’s Family” is far more than an annual theme—it is a live mission.
Director Matterig shared that the school’s core objectives are three-fold: to share the transformative love of Christ, to learn together through interactive experiences, and to build a stronger, tightly-knit community. She expressed her deep hope that throughout this journey, every child present would truly feel a profound sense of belonging to a spiritual family that cares for them deeply.
Diverse Classrooms & Dedicated Facilitators
The institutional initiative successfully drew a wonderful group of 35 young participants, thoughtfully divided into developmental categories to ensure personalized mentoring:
👶 12 Nursery Learners (exploring faith through sensory play and songs)
🧑🤝🧑 10 Younger Elementary Students (building foundational Bible insights)
🙋♂️ 13 Older Elementary Students (deepening character and leadership values)
To guide these energetic groups, the ACCESS Director proudly presented the dedicated deployment team consisting of 15 Student Facilitators and 2 Alumni Employees representing various academic departments. These well-trained volunteers have dedicated their time to serve as mentors, role models, and instruments of God's compassion on the ground.
By bridging academic support with institutional community extension, Aldersgate College continues to extend its hands beyond classroom walls—nurturing the next generation and walking together as one family under God.
Thank you, Barangay Aurora, for opening your hearts and homes to this divine mission!