Faith and Unity at DIS Conference
Honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary
07 October 2025
TThe Annual DIS Teacher and Staff Conference opened with a solemn celebration of the Holy Eucharist in observance of the Feast of the Most Holy Rosary, honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary. The annual conference is a three-day event with the theme “Kindling the Light: Igniting Faith, Hope, and Love with St. Dominic and Future-Ready Education.” The celebration set a reverent and faith-filled tone for the day’s events, which centered on education, collaboration, and innovation.
The Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Nicanor Austriaco, O.P., from the Order of Preachers (Dominicans), who served as the main celebrant. He was joined by concelebrants Fr. Tomasz Zalewski, O.P., and Fr. Francisco Carin, C.M.F. The liturgy brought together the DIS community in a spirit of unity and reflection, marking the start of the conference with prayer and thanksgiving.
In his homily, Fr. Austriaco shared the historical and spiritual significance of the Holy Rosary, tracing its origins to the 13th century, when the Blessed Mother appeared to St. Dominic and encouraged the faithful to pray the Rosary as a source of strength and hope. He also recalled the Rosary’s role in history, particularly in the Battle of Lepanto in 1571, when Christian forces attributed their victory to Mary’s intercession.
He further inspired the community with a story about Saint John Vianney, the Curé of Ars, whose quiet devotion to the Rosary reflected deep faith and perseverance. Fr. Austriaco reminded everyone that the Rosary is not just a repetition of prayers, but a meditation on the life of Christ, offering peace and strength to those who turn to it in faith.
Following the Mass, participants transitioned into a day of workshops and collaborative sessions aimed at enhancing teaching practices and fostering innovation in the classroom. Rooted in the spiritual reflection of the morning, the conference encouraged educators to approach their work with renewed purpose—combining faith, compassion, and creativity in their mission to guide students toward growth and understanding.
Reflecting on the celebration, one teacher shared, “Beginning our conference with the Holy Rosary reminded us that teaching is more than a profession—it’s a calling. It was truly uplifting to start the day grounded in faith and community.”
