EnglishConnect

EnglishConnect is a program provided by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to help individuals around the world increase self-reliance, expand opportunities for education, employment, service, and friendship while developing English proficiency in an environment of fellowship and faith.

First meeting of EnglishConnect Urdaneta Stake group, 10 September 2023 







Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

More Than Just a Dad: What It Really Takes

Image
Okay, let's get real. Anyone can have kids, right? But being a dad? That's a whole different ballgame. As a mom, I've seen firsthand what it takes to be a great father, and let me tell you, it's so much more than just biology. It's Not Just About the Genes   Making a baby is just the starting point. Being a father starts when you step up and take responsibility.  It's about:   - Being Present : Like, really present. Not just physically, but emotionally too. Putting down the phone, turning off the game, and actually engaging with your kids. It's about being there for the good, the bad, and the messy. - Keeping Them Safe : Making sure they're okay, both in their bodies and in their heads. Teaching them how to navigate the world and protecting them when they can't. It's about being their rock. - Providing the Basics : Food, clothes, a roof over their heads. But also, giving them opportunities to learn and grow. It...
Read more

A Beacon of Hope for Child-Survivors

Image
  In the heart of the Philippines, amidst the challenges and shadows of abuse and exploitation, stands Parola Santuwaryo (Lighthouse Sanctuary) - a sanctuary of light and healing for children who have survived the horrors of sexual abuse and sex trafficking. This blog post sheds light on the noble mission of Parola Santuwaryo, an organization dedicated to providing a safe haven and professional rehabilitation services to these vulnerable children, empowering them to reintegrate successfully into family life and society.   The Urgent Need for Residential Shelters   In a country where the dark realities of abuse and trafficking cast a long shadow over the lives of children, the need for residential shelters is more pressing than ever. Parola Santuwaryo has emerged as a beacon of hope, filling a crucial gap as the only shelter of its kind in all of Region 1, offering refuge to up to 20 children in need. Another shelter will open up in Tarlac City very soon....
Read more

Stop Counting the Minutes, Start Cherishing the Moments: A Parent's Guide

Image
We've all been there – juggling work, household chores, social commitments, and the ever-present demands of modern life. In the midst of this chaos, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of time our children seem to require. "I just need a break!" we sometimes think, or even say. But what if the very thing we perceive as a burden is actually the greatest gift we'll ever receive?   I recently came across a quote that struck me to my core: " You will never look back on life and think, 'I've spent too much time with my kids.'" Let that sink in for a moment.   The Days Are Long, But the Years Are Short   It's a cliché because it's true. The days with young children can feel incredibly long. The constant needs, the endless questions, the sheer exhaustion – it can all feel like a never-ending marathon. But as any parent of older children will tell you, those years fly by in the blink of an eye. One minute you're...
Read more

BYU-I Fall 2021

Image
We are looking forward to starting and completing our chosen course this fall semester. Child Development course is a theoretical, academically oriented course focusing on the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of the child from conception through adolescence. As parents ourselves and assisting and giving support to other children, we are excited to learn and  explore the influences of family, peers, and social institutions on the child's development.  We know that connecting the dots between what we learn and what we do takes creativity and even stepping outside our comfort zone.Our most favorite part is searching for daily opportunities at home and at work to apply what we learn.
Read more

A Special Visit to Holy Infant Clinic

Image
We recently had the incredible opportunity to visit the Holy Infant Clinic, the place where all our precious children were born! It was a heartwarming experience as we reunited with Dr. Zarate and the midwives who played such a significant role in bringing our little ones into the world.   Meeting them again filled our hearts with gratitude and joy. Their expertise, care, and compassion during those precious moments will forever hold a special place in our hearts. We were truly blessed to have such dedicated professionals by our side, ensuring the safe arrival of our little miracles.   As we walked through the halls of the clinic, memories of each child's birth flooded our minds. The anticipation, the excitement, and the overwhelming love that filled the air were palpable once again. We couldn't help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the blessings we have been given.   The opportunity to introduce our children to the doctor and mid...
Read more

Finding Strength in Covenants

The recent Worldwide Relief Society Devotional  resonated deeply, renewing my focus on the power and importance of covenants. The inspiring messages from Camille N. Johnson, Sister J. Anette Dennis, Sister Kristin M. Yee (speaking from Red Brick Store in Nauvoo, Illinois), and Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (speaking from Hawaii), powerfully reminded me that cleaving unto these sacred promises isn't merely a religious duty; it's a lifeline, a source of strength enabling us to navigate life's complexities. The devotional helped me understand that our covenants provide access to God's power – a divine resource sufficient to overcome the burdens, obstacles, and temptations we face daily.  This isn't just about personal strength; it's about being empowered to protect, defend, and strengthen those around us.  We are given the ability to be instruments in God's hands, lifting and supporting others on their journeys.   Thinking of women...
Read more

Raising Responsible Children: Essential Family Rules

Image
Creating a well-structured home environment is crucial for raising responsible children. Clear rules aren't about being strict; they're about building character and instilling valuable life lessons. Here are some essential rules that foster a loving, respectful, and orderly home:   Respect & Responsibility:   - Respect elders and siblings: Treat everyone with kindness and courtesy. No fighting or backtalk.   - Shared responsibilities: Fairly divide chores and contribute to the household.   - Honesty & Integrity: Always tell the truth. No lying, even in jokes.   - Gratitude & Helpfulness: Show appreciation and offer help without being asked.   - Financial Responsibility: Practice saving and avoid borrowing without permission.   Household Management & Order:   - Family Time: Meals, devotions, and family time are sacred. Phones are off during these times.   - Quiet Time: Respect quiet hours. No loud music at nig...
Read more

Slow Living in Calgary: A Family Guide to a More Intentional Life

Image
Calgary, with its stunning natural beauty and vibrant community, offers the perfect backdrop for embracing a slower, more intentional lifestyle. But with busy schedules and the constant demands of modern life, how can families in Calgary truly integrate slow living principles? This guide provides practical steps to help your family savor life's moments and cultivate a deeper sense of connection.   Nurturing Family Bonds   The foundation of slow living lies in strong family connections. Here's how to prioritize quality time:   - Weekly Family Dinners: Designate a night for a screen-free dinner. Share stories, discuss your day, and truly connect. This simple act fosters communication and creates lasting memories.   - Embrace Calgary's Outdoors: Explore Calgary's incredible parks! Hike the trails of Fish Creek Provincial Park, bike the Bow River pathway, or visit the Calgary Zoo. Shared adventures create lasting memories and appreciation for nature. ...
Read more

Why Every Mom Needs a Journal

Image
Being a mom is crazy busy!  It's a mix of messy diapers, sleepless nights, and so much love it's overwhelming. You're always juggling a million things, feeling like you're running on empty. So, why add another thing to your to-do list? Why journal? Because, mama, you deserve a break.  Think of it this way: you're already living a huge, amazing story – your life as a mom. It's full of ups and downs, happy moments and tough ones. But all those feelings and thoughts are happening inside your head, and it's easy to forget them in the rush of daily life. A journal helps you remember. It's a way to capture those special moments before they disappear. Here's WHY journaling is important for moms: To understand yourself better:  Motherhood changes you. Journaling helps you figure out your feelings, understand why you react the way you do, and grow as a person. This is good for you and your family. To feel better: Let's face it, being a mom is ...
Read more

THE HEAVENS DECLARE THE GLORY OF GOD

Image
Today in our family home evening, we had a glimpse of the majesty and glory of our Heavenly Father’s handiwork. We spent the evening outdoors observing the night sky and stargazing. Fortunately, everyone saw a shooting star. For  some people, it is the sign of a good beginning; while, others take it a symbol of ending. Whether it is true or not, one thing is absolute: THE HEAVENS DECLARE THE GLORY OF GOD. Heavenly Father, through His Son, is the Creator and Ruler of the universe. To Moses, He declared: “I am the Lord God Almighty, and Endless is my name. … “And worlds without number have I created; … and by the Son I created them, which is mine Only Begotten” (Moses 1:3, 33). Astronomers, with the aid of powerful instruments, are helping us glimpse the extent of God’s dominions. The more we learn, the more incredible our view of God’s creations becomes.
Read more