By Heidi F. Mabatid, M.D.
Every month, a remarkable group of high school classmates from the Divine Word College of Tagbilaran (now HNU) High School Class of 1965 gathers; not just for the joy of rekindling old friendships but to celebrate life, faith, and the bonds that have only grown stronger over the years. Now approaching our 60th anniversary as a class, our monthly reunions hold even greater significance, coinciding with the Roman Catholic Church’s 2025 Jubilee Year, themed “Pilgrims of Hope.”
At the heart of these gatherings is a classmate-turned-priest, Fr. Antonio (Tony) Bon Pates, who carefully prepares inspiring recollections and meaningful homilies for the Mass that marks each meeting. The presence of faith, coupled with the warmth of shared history, makes these moments deeply special, serving as a beacon of hope in our golden years.
The Challenges of Aging: Finding Strength in Companionship
Reaching one’s senior years is both a blessing and a challenge. With aging comes the inevitable slowing down of the body, the emergence of health concerns, and, often, the loss of loved ones. Many seniors struggle with loneliness, which can lead to emotional distress, cognitive decline, and even physical ailments.
Yet, the DWC-T HS Class of 1965 has found a way to counteract these struggles through the simple but powerful act of coming together. Our monthly reunions provide:
1. Emotional Support – In a world that can sometimes feel isolating, these gatherings offer a safe space to share joys, sorrows, and the ups and downs of life. A problem shared with a friend is a burden lightened.
2. Mental Stimulation – Reminiscing about the past, engaging in meaningful conversations, and even playful debates keep our minds active and sharp. Studies have shown that social interaction helps lower the risk of dementia and cognitive decline.
3. Physical Benefits – Laughter, movement, and even just the excitement of getting ready for the reunion contribute to overall well-being. Socially active seniors tend to live longer, healthier lives.
4. Spiritual Nourishment – The presence of our priest-classmate elevates our gatherings beyond simple reunions. His homilies remind us of our shared faith, the importance of gratitude, and the hope that remains alive no matter our age.
5. A Renewed Sense of Purpose – Having a regular event to look forward to gives these classmates a sense of excitement and anticipation. It reminds us that we are still part of something bigger, that our presence matters, and that our friendships remain as meaningful as ever.
A Special 60th Anniversary: A Journey of Hope
As the DWC-T HS Class of 1965 marks 60 years since our graduation, we find ourselves perfectly aligned with the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year – a time of renewal, grace, and spiritual journey. The theme, “Pilgrims of Hope”, resonates deeply with us, as we, too, are on a pilgrimage of faith, friendship, and resilience.
Just as the Jubilee calls on Catholics to reflect, forgive, and look forward with hope, these classmates embody that very spirit. We have weathered life’s storms together, offering each other unwavering support. Our monthly Masses serve as both a thanksgiving for the past and a prayer for the future – a reminder that, no matter our age, we are still walking our own journey of hope.
Friendship, Faith, and the Road Ahead
As we celebrate birthdays each month, it’s not just about marking another year gone by; it’s about celebrating life itself. We are proof that aging doesn’t have to mean fading into the background. Instead, it can be a time of deep connection, renewed purpose, and unwavering faith.
Our story is a testament to the power of friendship, the comfort of faith, and the significance of staying connected. We are not just a high school class from 1965; we are pilgrims of hope, walking together, strengthening one another, and proving that the best journeys in life are those shared with good friends.