Ateneo Fiesta 2009 began with a Eucharistic Celebration on December 1, 2009 at the Multi-Purpose Covered Courts. The mass for this year’s Ateneo Fiesta was commemorated with a black atmosphere as an expression of the Ateneo Community’s mourning for the victims of the Maguindanao Massacre.
In his homily, University President Fr. Antonio F Moreno SJ emphasized the importance of observing the Fiesta as an activity of thanksgiving and solidarity. In the same way he reminded the Ateneo Community to never forget in their prayers and to become vigilant in the fight to seek justice for the victims of the November 23 massacre in Maguindanao.
A candle lighting ceremony was held after the mass as those present offered a moment of silence for peace in Mindanao and the nation.
El Consejo Atenista President Christian Olasiman also delivered an official statement condemning the massacre and its perpetrators. The Eucharistic Celebration was con-celebrated by the members of the Jesuit Community.
