MANDALUYONG CITY – The Franciscan College of the Immaculate Conception (FCIC) proudly marked a significant milestone as its School President, Sister Mary Michael G. Bactong, OSF, PhD, launched her first published book, Three Points Reflection to Change Our Hearts, during the Filipino Authors Summit & Book Launch 2025 held at the St. Francis Theatre in Mandaluyong City.
The event brought together authors, educators, and literary enthusiasts from across the country in a celebration of Filipino creativity and transformative storytelling. Representing FCIC, Sister Mary Michael introduced her book to an audience eager to embrace works rooted in spirituality, reflection, and personal growth.
The newly launched book carries the heart of a well-loved FCIC initiative. Three Points Reflection to Change Our Hearts began as a weekly radio program of the Franciscan College of the Immaculate Conception, broadcast every Sunday on 92.5 Groove FM, aired simultaneously on Facebook Live, and anchored in prayer and reflection. Hosted by Sister Mary Michael and assisted by DJ Mackoi, the program has been a source of comfort and spiritual grounding for listeners in Baybay City and nearby communities. Now, this humble program comes to life in written form – published by Unlimited Books Library Services and Publishing Incorporated through Ms. Sha Nacino, founder of the 90-Day Book Writing Challenge – offering readers a reflective guide for prayer, journaling, and personal transformation.
The book is further strengthened by the inspiring foreword of Honorable Mayor Jose Carlos Cari of Baybay City, Leyte, and the heartfelt message of Rev. Fr. Jose Litigio, OFM, both affirming the work’s significance in the spiritual journey of its readers. Their words echo the very essence of the book: that renewal is real and transformation is possible, “like a phoenix rising from the ashes.”
During her presentation, Sister Mary Michael emphasized the deepest message of her work. She shared, “No matter how wounded, no matter how hopeless, no matter how broke. There is grace. There is hope. There is a new beginning.” The sincerity of her message resonated with attendees who welcomed the book’s promise of hope and inner healing.
The launch of Three Points Reflection to Change Our Hearts reflects FCIC’s commitment to forming individuals not only academically but also spiritually. As a Franciscan institution, the college continues to champion programs and publications that nurture compassion, faith, and personal renewal. Sister Mary Michael’s book is expected to enrich FCIC’s formation activities, retreats, and community outreach programs in the coming months.
She concluded her message with an invitation to those seeking renewal and deeper connection with God. Those who desire a change of heart are encouraged to tune in to the radio program every Sunday. But for those longing for a deeper journey – to read, to reflect, and to write their own story – she invites them to “grab a copy of the book.” As she expressed, the book’s pages are meant to walk with every reader “from brokenness to renewal, from weakness to strength, from ashes to new life.”
Her final reminder captured the spirit of her work and the mission of FCIC: “When God changes your heart, you do not just recover, you rise stronger.”
By JIE R. LIM, MACDDS – Adviser Reach Out Publication
