The Book Launch of "Where is the Light?"
Last September 8, 2024, we finally launched our children’s book “Where is the Light?”. We launched it at RMT-CEFAM in the Ateneo de Manila University.
It was a wonderful experience of seeing familiar faces and meeting new people. A number of attendees were from the different charisms of CEFAM. A good number of my family and friends also joined us. It felt like a warm friendly gathering. Also present were some representatives of those affected by the EJK (Extrajudicial killings) in the Philippines. It was humbling to have them join us for the launch.
We began the event with a mass presided by Fr. Teodulo Gonzales, SJ. Then proceeded with a fun ice breaker to then, talking about our book project and advocacy. Fr. Ted discussed the vision of the project and why we decided to start it.
I was able to talk about how we started the project and what inspired me to create the story. I am not used to talking in front of a large group of people, so a very nervous Pat was speaking. However, people enjoyed and were engaged with what I had to say so that is an accomplishment for me. People even laughed at my jokes which was great.
There was a storytelling session with our special guest, Karylle Yuzon. Together with a few other volunteers, they read the book.
Afterwards, we had our book signing and salu-salo. I was hyper focused on signing and sketching for those purchasing books. It was very tiring but what a joyful experience it was.
Aside from the launching of the book, we launched our Light Shines campaign. Our advocacy is to light the fire of reading to children. We are currently partnering with communities to be able to donate copies of the book. In our own little way, we hope that our book would spark joy for children with reading difficulties. We want to give them an opportunity see the beauty in reading books.
I believe that beauty is one way of reaching people’s hearts and minds. I did my best in trying to create a beautiful story with beautiful pictures. Using scripture as my inspiration for the story, there is truth. In the actions of our characters in the story, there is goodness. Truth, Goodness and Beauty are the three transcendentals. In trying to apply these things in our book, my hope is that children who read it will be open to what is true, good and beautiful.
A heart that is open to what is true, good and beautiful will be open to a relationship with God; for God is truth, goodness and beauty.
I am truly grateful for Fr. Ted, all our volunteers, family, and friends. Our project continues to move forward.
Book sales and donations
For those interested in purchasing a copy of the book or donating copies to the communities we will partner with please head on over to this link:
Radyo Katipunan
Fr. Ted and I were also on Radyo Katipunan last October 28. If you are interested in the interview, you can watch it here:
Downloadable PDF’s
I have also made the book available as a downloadable PDF. You may purchase it here:
This book project has been quite an adventure. I will continue to update you with our events.
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