Hangad is a ministry composed of students and young professionals based in Quezon City, Philippines. Under the Jesuit Music Ministry of the Jesuit Communications Foundation, we have released four solo albums: Hangad (cassette in 1998; CD in 2000), Hangad Acapella! (2002), Pasko Naming Hangad (2002) and The Easter Journey (2005).

As expressed through our Mission statement and logo, we believe that music is a medium that can effectively communicate Christian values and uplift lives. In the spirit of magis, we help others know God by utilizing our gifts through our various undertakings.

What does "hangad" mean?

Though the use of the Filipino word "hangad" varies slightly from region to region, it is most commonly translated as "yearning" or "desire." Interestingly in some parts of the country, it means "to [literally] look upwards," "to admire" or "to prepare."

We used to jokingly tell people that "Hangad" was short for "Helping Athers kNow GAD" ("Helping Others Know God") because that's exactly what our ministry strives to do. For the members of our community, the group's name summarizes our yearning—our hearts' burning—to love and serve the Lord.

Our Mission

Hangad is a ministry—friends committed to bringing people closer to God through music. In the spirit of magis, the group is called to:

• nurture its spirituality

• foster a strong community

• develop its musicality, and

• inspire people with God's goodness especially where it is needed

Ignatian Foundation

From the beginning, Jesuit values and ideals have inspired us, and through the years, we have tried to conduct our ministry with these five Ignatian principles:

• Magis – The pursuit of excellence in any endeavor, never settling for the minimum, always striving for more. It is the commitment to transcend limitations—to be the best that we can be—for the Lord is worthy of nothing but our best.

• Unity of mind and heart – The marriage between thinking and feeling. Intellectual competence also entails empathy and compassion.

• Cura personalis – The affirmation of the innate goodness and dignity of every human being. This realization compels us to respect and care for each individual—no matter what culture, distinction or stature—for we are all God’s children.

• Women and men for (and with) others – The call to service. We are called to share our gifts and talents for the advancement of our fellowmen and build a more just society through acts of generosity and social advocacy.

• Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam – The statement of purpose. Everything we do—our every breath and activity—is for the greater glory of God.