Between 27 – 30 May 2017, a delegation of five One Heart committee members visited the Philippines with the main purpose of attending the blessing ceremony for the Duyan ni Maria orphanage.

During the trip, the committee visited the old orphanage. One member also donated clothing and toys for the children. Despite the poor conditions of the old orphanage, Sister Alex was all smiles and said to One Heart, “I am so happy…I feel like a millionaire because everything that I ask God for, He provides.”
The delegation also met with the Angeles University Foundation and they confirmed receipt of hospital equipment that One Heart helped to facilitate delivery.

On 28 May, the delegation attended the official opening ceremony of the new Duyan ni Maria orphanage. Further information on the ceremony can be found here.

After the ceremony, two friends of One Heart — who had also joined One Heart on the visit — pledged financial support to help with purchasing a vehicle to transport the children to and from school. A One Heart committee member also promised to match this pledge.

The visit was blessed and many graces were drawn from it, both for the One Heart members and the children, for whom all this work is ultimately for.

For further information on One Heart Association and how you can contribute to its work, click here.

On 28 May 2017, a delegation of five One Heart committee members had the pleasure of attending the official opening ceremony of the Duyan ni Maria orphanage in Pampanga, Philippines.

Through the particular wishes of Adelia Bernard, before her passing, One Heart became a founding contributor and supporter of the building of the orphanage. One Heart contributed a large portion of the initial funds, and sought to connect relevant parties to Duyan ni Maria to drive the commencement and continuation of the project.

Many thanks go to One Heart stalwarts, Norman Bernard, and Mario and Maria Valente for their drive to see this work commenced and progressed. Thanks also go to all One Heart members who contributed their time and financial support to accomplish this great work of charity.

The opening ceremony was an auspicious and joyous celebration. Hundreds attended the event, including two Bishops as well as various members of other contributing charities, and individual supporters.

The event was opened with a blessing from Bishop Iniges, followed by speeches from a number of people, then a song and dance from some of the Duyan ni Maria children. After the celebration at the new orphanage, the attendees adjourned for lunch at a nearby motel. During lunch, the mayor visited and pledged his support to Sister Alex, if she ever required it.

President Mario Valente said, “It was a wonderful day and One Heart were very blessed to finally see the vision of this work come to pass. There is more to be done, and with the current organisers spearheading this, One Heart is confident that the children will see a brighter future.”

For further information on One Heart Association and how you can contribute to its work, click here.

P.S. — On 27 August 2017, the children moved into their beautiful new facility with tiled floors. Norm Bernard of One Heart reports that it was wonderful to see their smiles and exuberance as they danced and played at the comprehension that this was their new home to sleep in, showers in, and have a proper twentieth century toilet, instead of the primitive alternatives in their previous facility.

One Heart wishes to thank everyone who kindly donated their funds, time and their prayers that allowed this moment to finally happen.  And of course, we praise and thank god for His help in completing this important project.