Tag: Philippines

Prayer and Beauty in the Philippines

On 26  July, Unit Leader Sr Jane Frances and members of the Marist Sisters community in Davao, the Philippines, Srs Edna, Sheila, Lilibeth and April and candidate Hai left early to go to the Benedictine Monastery just south of Digos, about an hours journey, for their annual retreat.

During the next 6 days they journeyed through the theme of the Love, Mercy and Compassion of our God.  They had a beautiful, spiritual time together reflecting, creating and praying during their ‘masked retreat’.

Following the retreat, during their journey home, they visited the most beautiful “Cactus Farm” –  and were amazed at the variety of cacti on display.

Journeying With New Members

IMG_0649For six months, beginning February 2016, Sr April Ancero took part in the Journeying With New Members formation programme at Marymount Mercy Centre in Castle Hill.

April found this course to be very enriching. IMG_0652She appreciated this opportunity for spiritual growth and for skills development that will enable her to journey with others as they discern their vocation. The Marist Sisters in Australia were delighted to have contact with April while she was here. Following the graduation Mass that took place on 13th August April has now returned to the Philippines.

Marists Sisters at International Eucharistic Congress

12645189_10205550372980544_7468776575103324461_nMarist Sisters Edna and Sheila were among the delegates from Diocese of Davao at the International Eucharistic Congress held in Cebu City, Philippines, from January 24-31,2016. The theme of the Congress, Christ in us Our hope of Glory. Sheila writes:
“We are feeling so blessed, loved and touched by this experience. The event was a manifestation of the universality of the Church. The people were from 73 countries. The experience of communion was celebrated in many ways such us catechesis, the testimony of various people, sharing in groups, listening, dancing, singing, laughter, processions and the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. Our prayer during the Congress was: Lord it is good we are here, stay with us and continue to nourish our faith.”

Seeking Restorative Justice

Sheila & AprilMarist Sisters Sheila and April attended the Regional Assembly and Reflection Session on Restorative Justice for all Prison Chaplains and Volunteers in the different Dioceses of Mindanao last August 11-13, 2014 in the Diocese of Tagum.

This is annual assembly held under the auspices of the CBCP-Commission on Prison Pastoral Care’s Executive Secretary , Mr. Rudy Diamante, is held for fellowship among Mindanao prison volunteers and for pastoral and theological updating; discussing issues affecting the jails and prisons in the Mindanao Region.