CLAY IN THE HANDS OF A POTTER

Message to Theotokos Singers on the Occasion of their 9th Anniversary

​October 25, 2024

Dear brothers and sisters, today we gather to celebrate your ninth anniversary. Traditionally, the ninth year is recognized as the Pottery Jubilee. Just as a potter skillfully shapes raw clay, strengthening it through fire to form a durable vessel, so too has the journey of Theotokos Singers unfolded. Pottery creates containers meant to hold good things, like nourishment and refreshment. With this in mind, let us gratefully reflect on the abundant blessings God, the Master Potter, has poured out on the Theotokos Singers over these nine fruitful years, drawing inspiration from Mary’s example in Sacred Scripture and the personal testimonies of your members.​

"Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene (John 19:25)."

1. STABAT (Titindig)

Mary stood at the foot of the cross, fully embracing her role as a vessel of faith and love, even as she endured profound sorrow. While the apostles fled from the dying Jesus, Mary’s presence revealed her unwavering faith and inner strength, supporting her Son during His most difficult hour. Just as a piece of pottery is crafted for a specific purpose, Mary’s life had a singular mission that she fulfilled until the end. Her sorrow and sacrifice are integral to the divine masterpiece God is forming, embodying her profound willingness to accept His plan, even amid intense pain and loss. 

Consider someone overwhelmed by a daunting challenge, uncertain of their next step. Their chest tightens, heart races, and the weight of uncertainty clouds clear thought, bringing feelings of doubt and helplessness. Such was the experience of 25-year-old Angielo Gargante when, with no one left to sing at Sunday Mass in the chapel of Our Lady of Fatima in Manresa, he faced a difficult decision. Many members of the Fatima Youth Choir had moved on or away, leaving a void. Recognizing how essential music is to the celebration of the Holy Mass and its role in uniting the community, Angielo took it upon himself to gather a small group to support Sunday services. This group included nine members: Angielo Gargante, Ace Gutierrez, Jannah Labagril, Charina Leona, Rose Ann Baclayo, Marriane Gacuma, Evelyn Salagubang, and siblings Lady Princess and Rench Ladrillo. Although their musical skills were limited, their heartfelt commitment to serving Jesus in the Eucharist and their devotion to the Blessed Mother, the chapel’s patroness, inspired them to gather each week. They began singing for morning Masses, sharing breakfast afterward.

​On October 25, 2015, this humble ensemble was formally established as the Theotokos Singers, a choir dedicated to the chapel’s liturgical needs. The Bible describes those who endure adversity and remain faithful as the "Anawim." This term refers to those who accept life’s events as part of God’s plan, trusting His will rather than attributing events to luck or chance. They understand that everything lies within His control, and nothing occurs by coincidence. For this reason, the founding members of the Theotokos Singers can rightly be called the “Anawim 9”—a faithful remnant who chose to remain and serve. They are blessed, not merely lucky.

Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, National Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes (2016)

Feast of Our Lady of La Naval de Manila, Sto. Domingo Church (2017)

Christmas Time, Manresa Retreat House (2018)

"Everyone in the choir calls me Ella. I was one of the first members of the Theotokos Singers. I was only 10 when Kuya Gielo got us together to sing in the chapel. To be honest, we weren’t very good at singing back then, but I kept coming because I knew we’d get to eat after practice and Mass. I remember Lola Nena giving us ₱100 each time to buy pan-de-sal, peanut butter, coffee, and soda which became our usual breakfast every Sunday. Even though our meal was simple, what made it special was all the laughter, stories, and songs we shared together. We were just young students without any money, so when we had to attend special programs, we’d bring cooked rice and chicken adobo with more boiled eggs than chicken. Kuya Gielo is a great cook, so we didn’t mind! Those little things brought us closer together." - Evelyn Salagubang

Evelyn "Ella" Salagubang

"Hey, I'm Jannah. I was 11 when the choir first started. I remember leaping out of bed, throwing on whatever clothes I could grab from my closet just so I wouldn’t be late to the chapel. Bath time? Yeah, not happening—I had no time for that! We’d start by praying the Rosary, then sing at Mass. Afterward, we’d hang out at the chapel steps, eagerly waiting for our hot pan-de-sal. Every once in a while, if we were lucky, Kuya Gielo would take us to Jollibee, where we’d split three meals between nine of us—his treat! I always looked forward to Sundays because I got to do fun things with friends I really liked. Sure, my parents sometimes scolded me for spending more time with the choir than on my schoolwork, but I told them not to worry; I was still keeping up with my studies, and my choir friends even helped me with homework. Over time, the OG Theotokos Singers became like a second family to me." - Jannah Labagril

Jannah "Pane" Labagril

​"Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word (Luke 1:38)."

2. FIAT (Tatalima)

In this moment, Mary resembles clay in the hands of the divine Potter, open and ready to be molded according to His will. Just as clay yields to the potter's hands, Mary entrusts her entire life to God, embracing His plan with unwavering faith. 

​In 2018, the members of the Theotokos Singers had sung together for three years, growing comfortable with familiar faces and routines. Suddenly, new prospective members from various groups, backgrounds, and genders began expressing interest in joining. At first, the predominantly female choir felt hesitant about this change, questioning why their established harmony should be disrupted. The idea of shifting dynamics and welcoming newcomers felt challenging and perhaps even unnecessary. Yet, they chose to take the leap. The choir transitioned from a female-dominated ensemble to a mixed chorus, blending both male and female voices. From its modest beginnings, the choir gradually gained recognition and is now frequently invited to perform at various events and concerts, delivering both simple and complex choral pieces. God introduced a change, and the Theotokos Singers embraced renewal and growth, leading to remarkable results. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the Theotokos Singers were entrusted with the significant role of singing regularly at the 11:00 AM Mass every third Sunday at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral of Cubao. Since then, they have faithfully fulfilled this commitment, serving at the Mother Church of the Diocese. The following year, they were given an additional responsibility: serving at the 12:30 PM Sunday Masses on the fourth and fifth Sundays at Mary, Mother of Hope Chapel in Makati.​

Sometimes, our carefully crafted plans do not unfold as expected. Yet God, the Potter, has a perfect vision for us and sees the finished creation in His mind, setting in motion a plan for our lives. It is when we fully surrender that God begins His work in us.

CSR Initiative, PLDT Head Office (2018)

Cameo Role in Mañanita, a Viva film by Paul Soriano (2019)

Regular Sunday Assignment, Immaculate Conception Cathedral of Cubao (2021)

Year-end Party in Pansol, Calamba, Laguna (2022)

Regular Sunday Assignment, Mary Mother of Hope (The Landmark) Chapel (2022)

"Hey, I’m Vincent! I started serving at church as an altar boy and got to know the “Anawim 9” from the Theotokos Singers since I live right by the chapel where they perform. While I’m serving at the altar, I love singing along with them. It feels amazing to worship God alongside so many people. I can hear the community singing their hearts out when the Anawim 9 leads them—it's such a powerful experience! Before I knew it, I was joining their practices and singing with the group. We would spend hours learning songs for the Christmas novena Masses, and I really enjoyed singing in places other than the chapel. We have regular service at Mary, Mother of Hope Chapel in Landmark, Makati, and at The Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Cubao. Plus, we’re invited every year to serve at The Feast of Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno at the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila. It can be tiring, but it’s totally worth it because I feel closer to the Lord through singing. Sometimes, my parents get on my case for spending more time at church than at home, but I tell them that being part of Theotokos is helping me grow into a responsible and productive person. So, before I head to church to serve, I always make sure I finish all my chores and errands at home to keep them happy about me being with the group." - Vincent Macasio​

Vincent Macasio

"I’m Allen, and I kicked things off with the Ministry of Altar Servers. Back in 2018, during the Christmas novena Masses, we served at Our Lady of Fatima Chapel. That’s where I first met the Theotokos Singers, and I started to really enjoy going to the chapel. Kuya Gielo taught us all sorts of prayers and songs whenever we were there to serve. He always said that part of being an altar server is responding to the priest and singing with the congregation. Eventually, I felt a calling within my calling and decided to leave the altar serving behind to fully join Theotokos Singers. The breakfasts we shared, our fun outings in Laguna and Antipolo, and all the songs we belted out together were unforgettable! We even got invited by Kuya Jeff to sing at PLDT, and let me tell you, I think we totally rocked it! Plus, we made our debut in Paul Soriano's movie "Mañanita," starring Bela Padilla and Felix Roco, where we got to sing a couple of songs. These are just a few of the colorful, fun, and super memorable adventures I've had with Theotokos Singers!" - Allen Ramirez

Allen Ramirez

"My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant (Luke 1:46-48)."

3. MAGNIFICAT (Magbubunyi)

Mary's Magnificat is her song of praise, celebrating the divine work in her life and in the world. Her words reflect humility and joy in being chosen by God, exemplifying her openness to His will—much like clay shaped by the potter into a beautiful vessel. Mary’s prayer reminds us to remain grateful for the privilege to serve, despite our simplicity and lowliness. 

The Theotokos Singers honor God, the ultimate Giver of gifts, by using their musical talents and resources to serve at Holy Mass and engage in community outreach. Through these actions, they magnify the Lord in all they do. In 2023, the Immaculate Conception Parish in Damar Village welcomed Theotokos Singers to sing regularly during their 5:00pm Masses. In 2024, the group was invited for the first time to sing at the Feast of Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno at the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene. For a humble barrio chapel choir, this invitation to sing at a national event exceeded their greatest hopes. The good news is that they have been invited once again for the January 2025 celebrations. As you serve, remember not to boast, saying, "Thank you for praising us." Instead, in every good you accomplish, give all glory to God. This will help keep you humble and close to Jesus, who is the real rockstar!

Regular Sunday Assignment, Immaculate Conception Parish, Damar Village (2023)

Harana Kay Maria, Immaculate Conception Cathedral of Cubao (2023)

Feast of the Black Nazareno, Quiapo Church, Manila (2024)

Feast of St. Philomena, Most Holy Redeemer Parish & Shrine of St. Philomena (2024)

"I was part of the Theotokos Singers right from the beginning in 2015 when I was just 15 years old and 16 kilos less. We dreamed of singing in different churches and serving our community, especially those in need. Fast forward nine years, and besides our regular service at Our Lady of Fatima Chapel in Manresa, Quezon City, where we all grew up, we now frequently serve at churches dedicated to Mama Mary, like Mary, Mother of Hope, the Landmark Chapel in Makati City, Immaculate Conception Parish in Damar Village, Quezon City, and the Immaculate Conception Cathedral of Cubao. Last December 2023, we took part in Harana Kay Maria at the Cubao Cathedral, dressed in blue dresses and suits. I thought to myself, 'Wow, we’re really a choir now!' We were also invited to sing the Holy Mass at the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila, during the feast of the famed Itim na Nazareno last year, and we've been asked to sing at the Fiesta Mass in January 2025 again. We never imagined we’d get this far, but thanks to God’s grace and Mama Mary’s guidance, here we are. It’s truly all God’s grace, and we can’t thank Him enough. Looking back, I’m really grateful to Kuya Ace for teaching me to play the guitar; I wish I had more time to practice now. I also want to highlight Kuya Gielo’s efforts when we only had nine members back in 2015. He was so patient and caring with all of us. He would cook tuyo, salted egg, longganisa, and fried rice for us back then, and he still does. A lot has changed, but we still enjoy simple breakfasts together. Finally, we owe a huge thanks to Kuya Jeff for opening so many doors for us. He’s helped us not just with material needs but also in our spiritual growth. Thank you for helping us organize the school supplies drive, Living Beads Rosary, and soup kitchen each year as a way to reach out to the children in Manresa. We were once in their shoes, and it's fulfilling to be able to pay it forward. We are truly blessed. God is the center of our lives, and He’s surrounded us with the right people to guide us on our journey. For everything, thank you, Lord." - Marriane Gacuma

Marriane "Maggie" Gacuma

"Hi, I'm Lady Princess, and I loved singing since I was a child. I was part of the Anawim 9 when it started in 2015. There’s so much to be grateful for as we celebrate our 9th year. I want to express my gratitude to Kuya Gielo for guiding the choir in the right direction when everything felt hopeless. People left our group for various understandable reasons, but he never lost hope and continued to care for us until now. I’d also like to thank my fellow choir members. I may not be as active as I used to be because I’m juggling schoolwork and family now, but they always welcome me with open arms whenever I have the chance to serve. I still want to serve God through singing whenever I can, so I appreciate how they treat me like family and understand my situation. Most importantly, I thank God for bringing us together in Theotokos Singers. As the song goes, 'I will sing forever of your love, O Lord!'" - Lady Princess Ladrillo

Lady Princess Ladrillo

"But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart (Luke 2:19)."

4. CONSERVABAT (Magninilay)
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Self-reflection is essential for personal growth. Through introspection, individuals uncover ways to navigate challenges and improve their circumstances. Just as pottery reflects the skill of the potter, each person reflects the attributes and character of God. Mary embodies this by deeply engaging with the divine moments in her life, allowing these experiences to shape her faith and understanding. She continually seeks God in all facets of her life. Amid fame and success, it is easy to lose sight of one’s identity and purpose, as material distractions can shift focus from spiritual values.
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In recognition of the call to Christian perfection, the Theotokos Singers formally became a Marian association of Catholic laypeople in 2022. They established a Constitution and Standing Rules of Order, embracing a spirituality inspired by the Blessed Mother. Guided by the Second Vatican Council's Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity (Apostolicam Actuositatem) and honoring their roots, the association aims to inspire, support, and connect people, families, and communities. Their goals include encouraging the recitation of the Holy Rosary and reception of the Sacraments (Pray); fostering volunteerism and community service aligned with their values (Give); assisting the faithful in prayerful singing through every available means (Sing); and providing opportunities for leadership development and personal growth through civic and community engagement (Shine).

In 2024, the Theotokos Singers performed the world premiere of "The Mass of the Theotokos: a Missa Brevis for Congregational Singing" at Our Lady of Guadalupe Minor Seminary. Plans are underway to professionally record this Mass setting and to feature it in concert during the choir’s 10th anniversary next year. It is inspiring to witness members now praying the Rosary daily, attending weekly Mass, making monthly confession, and participating in recollections and annual retreats. These practices offer meaningful opportunities to encounter Jesus. Appreciation is extended to all who have supported the children of Manresa through school supplies drives, catechesis, the soup kitchen, and the Living Beads Rosary. God sees each member's sincerity and hard work and will reward them in His perfect time. Being part of the Theotokos Singers is an invitation for each member to pursue sainthood and journey toward heaven. May they fully embrace this calling by seeking God in all they do.

Soup Kitchen & Catechesis, Barangay Manresa (2022)

Soup Kitchen & Living Beads Rosary (2023)

School Supplies Drive, Barangay Manresa (2024)

Soup Kitchen and Living Beads Rosary, Barangay Manresa (2024)

Mass of the Theotokos Premiere, Our Lady of Guadalupe Minor Seminary, Makati (2024)

Pathways of Promise Recollection, San Carlos Seminary, Makati (2024)

"When we began things nine years ago, I felt a bit lost because the first members looked to me for guidance, being the oldest in the group. I was only 25 at the time, and the others were all under 15. We had very limited resources and support for music training. Mama Mary became my safe space; I would turn to her with our group's worries and challenges. Starting a choral group wasn’t easy, but with Mama Mary's help and God's grace, we managed to fulfill our purpose over the years. Looking back, we not only saved our choir, which was struggling, but we also helped it reach new heights. God has truly blessed us with new members and the right people to join us on this journey. Now that Theotokos is nine years old, I can't help but get emotional. We’ll keep serving for many more years to come. We just need to do our best and trust that God will take care of the rest. He will bring our efforts to completion." - Angielo Gargante

Angielo "Gielo" Gargante

Once upon a time, a group of young people who cherished spending time in their small barrio chapel chose to honor Mary and remain faithful to Jesus, our Eucharistic Lord. Today, the Theotokos Singers are steadfast in guiding all hearts to Jesus through the loving example of the Blessed Virgin Mary. They promote a life of prayer, a special care for the poor, the glorification of God through song, and the encouragement of self-empowerment and civic engagement. 

​Dear Theotokos Singers, on your 9th anniversary, may your prayer be: "Lord God, you are the potter, and we are clay in your hands. Like pottery, help us bear your singular purpose. Strengthen us, as fire strengthens clay, so we may become beautiful and useful vessels. Shape us as you desire so that we may serve your purpose. We thank you for choosing us—flawed and fragile servants—to participate in your mission, as you fashioned us from dirt and clay into something beautiful. Lastly, thank you for marking each of us as a potter marks his creation. May we see you in all that we think, say, and do. We ask this through Mary, the Theotokos, whose prayers are powerful with you. Amen." Once again, happy 9th anniversary, and may you see all of your beautiful dreams come true!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jeff L. Jacinto, PhD, DHum, is an experienced educator and Learning & Development professional. He acts as a spiritual assistant to the Theotokos Singers and has generously supported the group in various ways. With joy, he serves the Church as a pastoral musician, Bible teacher, and mission coordinator. You can find out more about his ministry at www.jeffjacinto.com.