In the spirit of Ignatian pedagogy and values, we are thrilled to introduce “Xavier’s Friends” in Brazil, or “Amigos de Javier” in the Philippines, a remarkable pen pal program bridging the hearts of fifth-grade students from São Francisco Xavier School in São Paulo, Brazil, and Xavier School Nuvali in Laguna, Philippines.
Inspired by the tale of “Two Friends, One World” by Ramon Sunico, our program embodies the Ignatian values of empathy, service, and solidarity. It illustrates the power of connection, transcending physical boundaries to foster understanding and unity among diverse cultures.
Through handwritten letters and videos, students embark on a journey of cultural exchange, enhancing their language skills in both English and Portuguese/Tagalog. Guided by Ignatian principles, they reflect on their experiences, deepening their sense of global citizenship and building meaningful connections with their peers across the world.
Building Bonds Across Borders
The Xavier’s Friends project, which began in 2023 with grade 5 students, is designed to strengthen the bond between our schools and continue to nurture global citizens who embrace diversity and promote cross-cultural understanding. Through letters, photos, and videos, students learn about each other’s traditions, values, and daily lives, enriching their appreciation for the beauty of our interconnected world. In 2024, the project will continue with the same group of students as they move into grade 6.
More Than Just Language Exchange
In the spirit of bilingualism, students hone their language skills, fostering effective communication across linguistic boundaries. By articulating their thoughts and experiences in written and spoken form, they develop a deeper understanding of language as a tool for connection and expression.
At the core of Xavier’s Friends lies the Ignatian ethos of empathy, service, and solidarity. Students reflect on these values as they engage in heartfelt exchanges with their pen pals, fostering compassion, respect, and a sense of shared humanity that transcends cultural differences.
Beyond language and cultural exchange, Xavier’s Friends is a testament to the enduring power of friendship. Students develop genuine connections with their pen pals, guided by warmth, curiosity, and a shared desire to learn from one another’s experiences.
A Journey of Collaboration
As we journey through the inaugural phase of Xavier’s Friends, we remain committed to evaluating its impact and making necessary adjustments for future collaborations. Through joint assessments and feedback from students, teachers, and parents, we will continue to refine our approach, ensuring that Xavier’s Friends remains a beacon of friendship, cultural exchange, and Ignatian values for years to come.
In the spirit of St. Ignatius of Loyola, let us embrace the transformative potential of Xavier’s Friends, as we strive to build a more connected, compassionate, and inclusive world, one letter at a time.
A Big Shout Out to Our Team!
Huge thanks to the amazing people who make Xavier’s Friends possible:
Xavier School Nuvali: Fr. Aristotle C. Dy, SJ (Dean of School), Frederick S. Perez (Assistant Principal for Academics), Maricel H. Fong (English Department Chairperson), Gladys G. Parala (Grade 5 English Teacher – 2023)
Colégio São Francisco Xavier: Father Tárcio Luis Ferreira dos Santos, SJ (Dean of School), Denise Krein (Principal for Academics), Raquel Bohnstedt (Assistant Principal for Elementary School), Patricia Didoné (English Department Chairperson), Denise A. Marques (Grade 5 & 6 English Teacher)
And a special Thank you to the kind referral of S. Carlos Cesar Barbosa Silva, SJ, a valued member of the province of the Jesuits of Brazil studying theology at the Ateneo at Manila University.
