All Colleges Midweek Convocation
The All Colleges Midweek Convocation is one of the final masses during UCLEM season, wherein all the college departments of Silliman University are required to attend mass intentions according to their schedule. The College of Computer Studies was scheduled for an evening mass, which began at 6:30 P.M. on November 20. Students from other college departments were also present to participate in the mass.
The Midweek Convocation centered around the verses of 1 Samuel 17:41-47. These verses are the foundation of the UCLEM season’s theme, “Facing Life’s Giants,” referring to David defeating Goliath with only a slingshot. My initial expectations for this activity were not focused on the mass itself but on the number of participants. I initially thought that only the required student groups would attend, but to my surprise, the Silliman Church was overflowing with students. Every chair and bench was occupied, and many students, including myself and a few of my classmates, had to stand throughout the mass. The pastor preached about how David, with his unwavering faith in God and a simple stone and slingshot, triumphed over Goliath and his hubris. According to the pastor, David may have been small, but his faith in God was far greater than even Goliath, his enemy. Hearing those words inspired me to aspire to be like David.
I learned that no matter how small or powerless you may feel in situations where you lack control, it is always best to believe in God, place your faith in Him, and trust that He will help us conquer the giants in our lives. The Midweek Convocation is a yearly event, and since we students will continue to experience such masses until we graduate, my involvement with this activity and the Silliman Church will persist through my regular attendance. This attendance benefits me personally, as university life can be draining, and the guidance of the pastor and God provides much-needed strength and reassurance.
Because of this activity, I feel closer to God as I practice my faith, learning to trust and rely on Him more, especially in times of trouble and mental anguish brought on by my studies and the pressures of life.