Finding Peace in the Heart of the City: Celebrating Hug a Tree Day at Arroceros Park

What a beautiful morning! On Saturday, September 19, OLRP volunteers, along with our Columban priests and seminarians, gathered at Arroceros Forest Park—Manila’s last green lung—to celebrate Hug a Tree Day.

As part of the Parish’ month-long Season of Creation lineup leading up to the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, we took a breather from the busy city to slow down, practice the healing art of forest bathing, and literally hug the park's centuries-old trees. It was such a powerful way to say "thank you" to Mother Earth.

The morning was filled with great conversations, community spirit, and the joy of meeting new people who shared the relaxing space with us. For everyone in the parish, it was a gentle yet profound reminder of our shared duty to protect our common home.

We wrapped up this beautiful gathering with a meditative prayer, reflecting on God’s immense generosity and the beauty of His Creation.

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