News
Read the news from events, activities and other updates on the different communities here in the Philippines
1/24/2025
An Advent Retreat - VD Tagaytay"I Make My Home in You" (cf Jn 1:14) by: Mila Abigan, VD-Disciple The Verbum Dei-Tagaytay Advent Retreat, held from November 30 to December 1, 2024, offered participants a profound spiritual experience centered around the theme "I Make My Home in You" (John 1:14). This two-day event brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds for a time of prayer, reflection, and community building. The retreat commenced with an engaging icebreaker led by Sr. Connie, encouraging attendees to contemplate their personal journeys through four thought-provoking questions. This activity set the stage for deeper introspection and connection among participants. The introductory talk explored the central theme of God's desire to dwell with His people, inviting participants to recognize His presence in their daily lives and deepen their relationship with Him during Advent and beyond. Bro. Ed's session, focusing on the Annunciation, guided attendees in encountering God through reflective prayer and Scripture study, fostering a sense of intimacy with the Divine. Sis. Alice's talk, "I Make My Home in You," inspired participants to prepare their hearts as a dwelling place for God. Through Scripture-based reflections, quiet moments, and prayer walks, attendees deepened their connection with the Trinity. Sr. Rita's session explored the concept of eternal life as an invitation to deeper communion with God, while Sis. Cecile emphasized God's transformative mercy and His power to reshape and restore lives. The retreat included a Penitential Rite, featuring an examination of conscience and individual confessions, offering participants the healing grace of forgiveness. A communal dinner brought the group together in joy, fostering unity and gratitude, and included a birthday celebration for Sis. Mila. In the final session, Sr. Priscilla highlighted Christ's call to love one another, encouraging participants to embody God's love in their homes and communities. The retreat concluded with Sis. Mila leading a reflection on the Incarnation, urging attendees to embrace God's indwelling presence. An Advent Tree activity allowed participants to symbolically surrender their struggles and attachments while offering virtues and values to Jesus. As the retreat came to a close, attendees left with renewed hope and a deeper understanding of the Incarnation's message: God's constant presence in their lives. One participant summed up the experience, saying, "This retreat reminded me that God doesn't just visit our lives—He desires to make His home in us". The Verbum Dei-Tagaytay Advent Retreat provided a transformative experience, leaving participants with a renewed sense of God's presence and love as they entered the Advent season. Edited by: VD-NATCOMM
By Mila Abigan, VD-Disciple On December 15, 2024, the Verbum Dei-Luzon communities gathered at Verbum Dei-Tagaytay for a festive Christmas celebration that lasted from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The day began with a Holy Mass concelebrated by Verbum Dei missionary priests Frs. Filipe, Iwao, and Jojo, setting a spiritual tone for the event. The celebration aimed to unite members from various communities, share blessings and talents, and strengthen bonds between old and new members of the Verbum Dei-Luzon family. The lively duo of Doc. Resti Bautista and Sis. Marabel Viernes from the Pasig community served as emcees, guiding attendees through the day's activities. The Tagaytay community extended a warm welcome to all participants, creating an atmosphere of inclusivity and joy. Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed a delicious lunch, engaging program presentations, and entertaining games led by Bro. Gabby Lanada, whose "ala-Showtime" facilitation style kept the energy high. Each community contributed to the festivities with unique performances. The Quezon City community captivated the audience with a heartfelt song, while Manila/Pasig energized the crowd with a dynamic dance number. Tagaytay presented an inspiring skit that reflected on the true meaning of family, drawing inspiration from the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Spread between performances, games kept the atmosphere light and engaging, ensuring all attendees felt involved in the celebration. A highlight of the gathering was the exchange gift activity, where participants shared thoughtful surprises valued at one hundred pesos or more, embodying the spirit of giving and bringing smiles to everyone's faces. The Manila/Pasig community concluded the event with heartfelt closing remarks, reminding everyone of the day's deeper significance: unity, love, sharing, and gratitude. This Christmas get-together served not only as a celebration but also as a testament to the vibrant spirit and shared faith of the Verbum Dei-Luzon family. As the day ended, participants left feeling inspired and looking forward to more moments of togetherness in the coming year. The event successfully brought together the various Verbum Dei-Luzon communities, fostering a sense of family and shared purpose that extended beyond the celebration itself. Edited by: VD-NATCOMM
Despite challenging weather conditions, Verbum Dei Tagaytay's annual Gift-Giving Activity proceeded as planned, bringing together neighbors from the surrounding community for a day of spiritual nourishment, fun, and generosity. The event, held shortly before Christmas, showcased the power of faith and volunteerism in overcoming obstacles. The day began with early morning preparations for Confession, followed by a Holy Mass at 8:00 am. After the service, attendees gathered in the Simbahan for the main program. Adults with young children participated in a meaningful prayer dynamics session led by Sr. Connie in the retreat house dining area, while the children remained in the Simbahan for engaging activities. At 10:00 am, families shared a moment of fellowship over snacks, carefully distributed by servers to seated attendees. The atmosphere then shifted to one of excitement as Sr. Pearl and the VD Youth team led lively games, filling the air with laughter and joy. The pinnacle of the event came at 11:30 am with the much-anticipated gift-giving activity. Families queued patiently as children received colorful loot bags and adults gratefully accepted grocery bundles. Sr. Rita managed the ticket distribution process, while George and Elisa ensured a smooth flow of recipients, maintaining an atmosphere of joy and gratitude throughout. The success of this heartwarming event was made possible by the dedication and hard work of the entire Verbum Dei community. The Snacks Team, consisting of Marlyn, Nora, Melisa, and Elisa, ensured everyone was well-fed. The Games Team, led by Sr. Pearl and the youth, kept spirits high with entertaining activities. The Gift-Giving Team, including Sr. Rita, Cecile, and Alice, coordinated the distribution of presents. Sr. Connie and her team led the adult dynamics session, contributing to a meaningful experience for all participants. In the face of inclement weather, the Verbum Dei Tagaytay community demonstrated the true spirit of Christmas through their unwavering commitment to serving others. This annual Gift-Giving Activity not only provided material support but also strengthened the bonds of faith and fellowship within the community, leaving lasting memories of joy and generosity for all involved. Edited by: VD-NATCOMM
by Resti Ma. Bautista, MD The Verbum Dei Catholic Center of Formation spearheaded this activity for children's formation teams based in Manila-Pasig and Pansol, Quezon City on January 18, 2025. The workshop was facilitated by Teacher Cecilia and Doc Resti Bautista, who are Married Couple Missionaries in formation. The workshop had 25 participants, majority of whom are dedicated Verbum Dei disciples taking care of kids at the Missionary Journey at Pasig and the Kids School of the Word at Pansol. In addition, the Pasig Servant-Leaders were enjoined to participate, as well as the kids team for the upcoming Easter Encounter in Tagaytay. Also present were Sr. Juvy Tenorio, head of the MJ in Pasig and Fr. Iwao Ikegami, head of the kids apostolate in QC. The day began with prayer guidelines centering on The Parable of the Growing Seed (Mark 4:26-29). The participants were exhorted to grow in 2 attitudes as we labor in our apostolates for children. First, to have an attitude of trusting in the Lord of the harvest, to trust that the Lord is doing the work of making the seeds sprout, grow and bear fruit. Second, to grow into an attitude of hope, understanding that the seeds we plant may bear fruit beyond our vision and even beyond our time. The workshop was filled with a variety of learning methods including art, self-evaluation, group discussion, storytelling and practice teaching. Learners received an overview of child development and obtained a basic understanding of developmental domains and characteristics relevant to our work as teachers of the Word. With Jesus the Good Teacher as a model, the participants learned about attitudes that would enable them to become effective teachers of children. The participants ended the day with many insights. One expressed their amazement saying, “I learned that kids may not always remember what you said and what you taught, but they will always remember how you made them feel. To be a good teacher is to understand children well.” Another participant pondered on “the value and power of the blank sheet of paper.” And another was grateful to “learn ways to teach the kids about Jesus, creatively and effectively.” As we continue to work together in sharing the Word to children, may we “never lose hope in planting good seeds” (cf. Galatians 6:9). Maria Cecilia Bautista has been teaching young children for almost 30 years, her favorite class to teach is called “Jesus Discovery.” Resti Ma. Bautista has been in practice for 20 years as a pediatrician, specializing in newborn medicine. They are in the formation course in the Verbum Dei Missionary Fraternity.
Link to workshop content, photos and insights from participants: https://padlet.com/restimd/sowing-seeds-1yt2k3ghax9rr1t0
12/15/2024
Pasasalamat Para sa Pasig Missionary Journey |Â Thanksgiving for the Pasig Missionary JourneyPasasalamat Para sa Pasig Missionary JourneyIsinulat nina Resti Bautista at Santino Bautista Naganap sa Verbum Dei Formation Center sa Pasig City ang espesyal na aktibidad sa pagtatapos ng taon noong Disyembre 8, 2024 para sa ating Missionary Journey na may temang: Maghanda, Magtipon, Maglakbay Bilang Isang Pamilya. Nagsama-sama ang higit sa 200 matatanda, kabataan at mga bata mula sa nakapaligid na mga komunidad para sa formation, pabidahan at munting salo-salo. Sinundan ito ng Misa ng Pasasalamat na ipinagdiwang ni Fr. Patrick Vance Nogoy, SJ. Nagtapos ang masayang pagdiriwang sa exchange gift sa pagitan ng mga kalahok ng MJ, mga servant-leaders at mga disciple ng Manila-Pasig. Unang sumali sa MJ sa panahon ng pandemya si Rosemarie Andol noong siya ay naghahanda sa pagtanggap ng sakramento ng kasal (Batch 3). Sa kalaunan ay naging isa siya sa mga MJ servant-leaders. Ibinahagi niya ang kanyang karanasan, “Ang MJ ay naging way para makilala ko ang Panginoon, para lumawak ang pagkaintindi ko kung sino si Hesus, bilang tagapagligtas. Maraming pagbabago sa buhay ko, pananaw ko sa buhay, sa pananampalataya ko. Hindi nawala ang mga problema pero hindi na big deal, nandyan si God hindi tayo pinapabayaan. Sa kapwa, naging mas maunawain at caring ako, mas hindi makasarili, mas handang magmahal nang walang regrets. Noong una, ako lang, pero gusto kong makilala din ng pamilya ko ang Diyos. Ngayon ang aking mga anak ay active na rin sa youth/teens. Gusto kong mag-improve sa pagbabahagi sa iba ang natanggap ko dito, lalo na ang Salita ng Diyos. Walang sinuman ang hindi dapat makakilala sa Diyos!” Nagmuni-muni sa kanilang mga karanasan sa MJ ang apat mula sa grupo ng kabataan. “Nakatulong sa akin ang MJ dahil nag-grow ako at nalaman ko ano ang dapat kong gawin, ano ang tama at mali. Nag-grow din ako thru talent na meron ako,” sabi ni John Leo. “Para sa akin ang MJ ay memorable and fun, maraming natututunan sa mga lessons na binibigay,” idinagdag ni Whendel. Masayang napagkasunduan nina Mark at Patrick na humantong ang MJ sa mga hindi malilimutan at masasayang pagtatagpo, gaya ng 3-day retreat sa Tagaytay. Kuwento ni Zerg, 12-taong gulang, sa mga natutunan niya sa MJ: “Nalaman ko sa parabula ng nawawalang coin na ayaw ni Jesus na may sinumang mahihiwalay sa kanya at gagawa siya ng paraan upang siya ay matagpuan.” Dagdag pa niya, “Dito ko naranasan na kahit mahirap kami ay pwedeng gumawa ng dakilang bagay at ito ay ang magmahal sa iba simula sa pagtulong sa gawaing bahay.” “Natutunan ko po ang Salita Ng Diyos kaya mas lalo pa akong napalapit kay Jesus at ako po ay naging mapagkaibigan na at mabait,” ang tuwang-tuwang pahayag ni Ashley, 10-taong gulang, na bahagi ng ukulele kids troupe. “Ang pinakamasaya ko pong naranasan sa MJ ay kapag nag-share kayo ng Salita ng Diyos sa amin.” Upang tapusin ang pagdiriwang, nagpahayag ng kanyang matinding pasasalamat si Sr. Juvy Tenorio sa 7 taon ng Missionary Journey at sa walang patid na dedikasyon ng MJ Team sa misyon. Pinayuhan niya ang lahat na purihin ang Diyos na “Inihahanda ang daan para sa atin, tinitipon tayo at sinasamahan tayo sa paglalakbay bilang isang pamilya kasama si Kristo.” Patuloy tayong manalangin bilang isang pamilya sa panahong ito ng paghihintay, “Naghihintay kami sa Panginoon at sa kanyang salita kami umaasa.” (Cf. Awit 130:5) Thanksgiving for the Pasig Missionary JourneyBy Resti Bautista and Santino Bautista The Verbum Dei Formation Center in Pasig City hosted a special year-end activity on December 8, 2024 for our Missionary Journey with the theme: Maghanda, Magtipon, Maglakbay Bilang Isang Pamilya. The event gathered more than 200 adults, teens and young children from the surrounding urban communities for formation, a showcase of talents in a brief program and simple snacks. This was followed by a Thanksgiving Mass celebrated by Fr. Patrick Vance Nogoy, SJ. An exchange of gifts among the MJ participants, servant leaders and Manila-Pasig disciples capped the festivities. Rosemarie Andol first joined MJ during the pandemic, when she was preparing to receive the sacrament of marriage (Batch 3). Eventually, she became one of the MJ servant-leaders. She shared her experience, “The MJ became a way for me to know the Lord, to understand deeply who Jesus is, as Savior. There have been many changes in my life, my views in life, my faith. Problems did not disappear but were not a big deal anymore, God is there, never abandoning us. With others, I became more understanding and caring, more selfless, more willing to love without regrets. At first it was just me, but I wanted my family to also know God. Now my kids are also active in the youth/teens. I want to share more effectively with others what I have received here, especially the Word of God. Nobody should not know God!” Four boys from the youth group reflected on their MJ experiences. John Leo shared, “The MJ helped me grow and learn what I should do, what is right and wrong. I also grew to discover the talents I can share.” Whendel added, "For me MJ is memorable and fun, I learn a lot from the lessons given.” Mark and Patrick happily agreed that the MJ led to unforgettable and happy encounters, such as the 3-day retreat in Tagaytay. Zerg, 12-years old, shared about what he learned at MJ: "I discovered from the parable of the lost coin that Jesus does not want anyone to be separated from him and he will find a way to find him." He added, "Here I experienced that even if you are poor, you can do great things and that is to love others, starting with helping with housework." "I understood the Word of God so I got even closer to Jesus and I became more friendly and kind," said 10-year old Ashley excitedly. She is part of the ukulele kids troupe. “My happiest experience at MJ was when you shared the Word of God with us." To end the celebration, Sr. Juvy Tenorio gave thanks for the 7 years of the Missionary Journey and expressed her deep gratitude for the unwavering dedication of the MJ Team to the mission. She exhorted everyone to praise God who “Prepares the way, gathers his people and accompanies us as we journey as a family with Christ.” Let us continue to pray as one family in this season of waiting, “We wait for the Lord and in his word we hope.” (Cf. Psalm 130:5) Resti with his wife Cecilia are in the formation course for Verbum Dei Married Couple Missionaries. Their son, Santino is 16 years-old and is a preacher in Season 16 of Daily Shots. Photo credits: Menchie Quinal and Juvy Junco
10/22/2024
Go and Invite Everyone to the BanquetBy Resti Ma. Bautista, MD For World Mission Sunday 2024, the Manila-Pasig Verbum Dei Family endeavored to respond to the call of Pope Francis, to “Go and Invite Everyone to the Banquet” (Matthew 22:9). This inclusive and urgent call to bring God's life and love to everyone was concretized at our Missionary Journey, which brings God's Word to the urban communities surrounding the VD Formation Center in Pasig. Around 200 adults, teens, and young children attended the gathering for formation and prayer. The MJ adults were led into a reflection on World Mission Sunday, on their specific role as evangelizers in their families and communities. The MJ Teens deepened their discipleship on the Means of Perseverance as young followers of Christ in the world today. The MJ Kids learning activity focused on the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), how each one is wonderfully made with many talents to be cherished and shared, culminating in a fun and festive Talent Show with dancing, singing, and a special performance by the VD Ukulele Kids Troupe. The gathering was joyfully capped by a simple banquet of sweet Filipino-style spaghetti for all. During the Celebration of the Eucharist, Fr. Iwao Ikegami shared about his call and path to the priesthood, highlighting the missionary heart of Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). We are grateful for the dedicated missionary disciples of Manila-Pasig, MJ servant-leaders, and guest volunteers for bearing much fruit in the MJ. May they share in the great happiness of the Master of the Harvest, as he speaks in their hearts, “Well done, good and faithful servants!” (cf. Matthew 25:23). Resti, together with his wife, is part of the formation course of the Verbum Dei Missionary Married Couples branch.
Some members of the Verbum Dei family here in Cebu, including Missionary Disciples, Missionary Couples, and Fraternity members, concluded the first batch of our Conversations on the Verbum Dei Missionary Disciples’ Regulations last September 7, 2024. With the theme of "We are the Light of the World and Salt of the Earth" (cf. Matthew 5:13-14), a group of 13-20 members formed the first batch and came together for five Saturdays to share and discuss the VDMD Regulations. We connected these discussions to our personal experiences and sense of belonging within the Verbum Dei family. The energy and enthusiasm were incredible! The group shared what it means to be part of the Verbum Dei family on a personal level, listened to each other’s stories and experiences, and brainstormed practical ways to address the current needs of our community here in Cebu. Now, we’re excited to put these ideas into action with plans that will benefit the entire Verbum Dei family. Let’s read the sharing of Girlie, a member of the Missionary Disciples, as she shared her experience during the family mass on September 8:
by Sue Vergara (Edited by Lucio Pulmones) ![]() The Easter Encounter 2024, held at the Sto. Niño Spirituality Center in Tolotolo, Consolacion, Cebu last March 28 to 31, was a powerful and meaningful experience for the participants. The theme, "Fear Not, for I am with you" from Isaiah 41:10, resonated deeply throughout the three-day event, which was facilitated by missionaries from the three branches. The event brought together 12 consecrated missionaries, one lay consecrated missionary (LCM), 134 adults, and 33 children, all united in their quest for a deeper connection with God. The Easter Encounter began on Maundy Thursday with a welcome talk that encouraged participants to reflect on their current lives and the challenges they face. This introspection was meant to remind them of the preciousness of life and the importance of living it fully. The Last Supper celebration that followed reinforced the message of not fearing because of Jesus' promise to be with us until the end of age, as mentioned in Matthew 28:20. ![]() On Good Friday, Bro. Hai's talk centered on the unconditional love of God the Father, emphasizing that His love is everlasting and cannot be separated by any force. This love was exemplified through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. The participants were invited to reflect on the cross they needed to carry and prayed the Via Crucis as a response to Jesus' love. On Black Saturday, the focus shifted to maintaining a connection with the Lord to continue living in joy, peace, and love. The participants were reminded that when we have God, we lack nothing, as stated by St. Teresa of Avila. This led to an invitation to seek reconciliation and follow God's calling in their lives. The participants were encouraged to be the body, hands, and feet of Jesus on earth. ![]() To further encourage the participants to continue their journey with Jesus, the Via Lucis or the Way of Light was presented, narrating the appearances of the Risen Lord from Easter to Pentecost. This was done through testimonies and dynamics. The Easter Vigil was a powerful moment, where Fr. Michael invited the participants to have HOPE, which stands for Humility in front of the Lord, Openness to Jesus, Punctuality in responding to God's call, and Enthusiasm in their following. The participants were reminded that Jesus will always be waiting for them, regardless of what the future holds. The Easter Encounter culminated with a celebration of the Holy Eucharist on Easter Sunday, marking the end of the three-day event. The participants were encouraged to continue strengthening their faith by joining the School of the Word, Rosary of the Word, disciples’ retreats, and recollections to deepen their connection with God. To see more photos of the event, click the Cebu Easter Encounter 2024 Google Photos album.
A Tale of Transformation and Renewal at the Easter Encounter for VD-Luzon Youth "Jesus, I Need You" In the tranquil hills of Tagaytay, a remarkable journey unfolded from March 28 to March 31, 2024, at the Verbum Tagaytay Retreat Center. The Easter Encounter, themed "Jesus, I Need You," became a sanctuary for 82 souls seeking spiritual renewal and a deeper connection with Christ. Participants, a vibrant mix of youth and missionaries from Luzon's Verbum Dei Communities in Pasig, Pandacan, Pansol, and Tagaytay, embarked on a four-day spiritual odyssey that promised to be both transformative and enlightening.
A Journey Through Faith and Fellowship The retreat commenced on Maundy Thursday with a series of welcome talks, energizing animations, group sharings, and adoration of the Eucharist, setting the tone for the days to come. The attendees, awakened by a traditional Harana on Good Friday, were immersed in a day filled with affirmations, the Via Crucis with personal testimonies, and the Veneration of the Cross, culminating in a communal viewing of the movie "Father Stu." Black Saturday encouraged a reflective silence as participants confessed their sins, preparing their hearts for the joyous anticipation of Easter Vigil. The retreat culminated on Easter Sunday in an atmosphere of jubilation, celebrating the resurrection of the Lord and the transformative journey each participant had undertaken. Personal Encounters with Christ Among the attendees was Faith, a newcomer from the Pasig community, who immediately felt a sense of belonging. The words of affirmation dynamic and the communal fiesta, where talents and love for God were joyously shared, particularly marked her experience. "I'm so happy receiving compliments, and it boosts my confidence again," Faith shared, reflecting on the profound impact of the encounter on her self-esteem and spiritual journey. Luis, a youth disciple from Pansol, found the washing of the feet ceremony to be the most impactful, reminding him of Jesus's unconditional love even in the face of betrayal. Similarly, Maxine from Pandacan was moved by the realization that love, in its many forms, is the essence of our identity and mission. "Now, I know I was loved because of the encounter I had. I was filled with love in every corner, and in prayer, I heard my mission: to love," she reflected. Nica, returning for her second Easter Encounter, shared how the experience strengthened her faith and relationship with God. Witnessing the transformative power of the retreat on newcomers and the reassurance of God's control over her anxieties were highlights of her journey. The question, "If God can give you His only Son, is there anything He cannot give to you?" struck a chord with her, inspiring a renewed commitment to share love despite criticism. Lia, a youth from Muntinlupa, shared a profound realization about the nature of love as a divine wildfire, unstoppable and all-consuming. "Love is like wildfire... But, you can never put out the wild fumes of Love because God always makes sure that your heart stays alight," she mused, capturing the essence of the encounter's impact on her spiritual understanding. A Legacy of Love and Renewal The Easter Encounter 2024, "Jesus, I Need You," was more than just a retreat; it was a journey of self-discovery, fellowship, and spiritual awakening. Through laughter and tears, the participants grew closer to Christ and each other, carrying away unique lessons and experiences that will guide them on their life's path. The encounter served as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of love and the ever-present invitation to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, embracing our mission to love and be loved. By Melissa Wang In the serene surroundings of the Reparatrix Sisters of the Sacred Heart in Tagaytay, a diverse group of eighty-two individuals, encompassing single adults, married couples, widows, and families with young children, embarked on a transformative journey from March 28 to March 31, 2024. The Verbum Dei Easter Encounter for Luzon, themed “The Time Has Come” (John 12:23), offered participants a unique opportunity to deepen their personal relationship with Jesus Christ, reflecting on His ultimate sacrifice and the boundless love that propelled it.
This year’s Easter Encounter was marked by two significant milestones. For the first time, the Manila-Pasig community disciples took full charge of the event's organization, showcasing their dedication and spirit of service. Additionally, a special program was introduced for children, mirroring the adult encounter and ensuring a family-friendly atmosphere where even the youngest could engage in meaningful spiritual activities. A Journey Through Holy Week The retreat unfolded in alignment with the solemnity of Holy Week, beginning on Holy Thursday under the sub-theme “The Hour has Come” (John 12:23). Participants were invited to contemplate the life and love of Jesus, especially during His final hours, inspiring them to emulate His journey of love and sacrifice. Good Friday, designated as “The Day of Love” (cf. John 13:1), encouraged participants to recognize their capacity to love as Jesus did. Through the Via Crucis, they were led to witness the depth of Jesus’ love, culminating in a reflective session with Mary at the foot of the Cross, pondering her courage and unwavering trust in God. Holy Saturday was a day of courage and redemption, as attendees confronted their sinfulness and embraced God’s mercy. The journey continued with the Via Lucis, reinforcing the call to love and culminating in the joyous celebration of the Easter Vigil. The night was filled with hope and jubilation, marking the victory of new life in Jesus. The retreat concluded on Easter Sunday with a forward-looking theme, “Now is Our Time” (cf. 2 Corinthians 6:2). Participants were encouraged to nurture the spiritual fruits of the retreat and share their experiences with others, fostering a sense of community and perseverance. The celebration of the Easter Day Mass and heartfelt testimonies from a participant and a missionary disciple underscored the profound impact of the four-day spiritual encounter. Echoes of Transformation The Easter Encounter 2024 left an indelible mark on its participants, with many expressing their gratitude and sharing the profound personal transformations they experienced. From the innocent joy of a child proclaiming, “I love Holy Week!” to heartfelt testimonies of spiritual renewal, the encounter served as a powerful testament to the love and grace of God at work. As participants returned to their daily lives, they carried with them not just memories but a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper connection to their faith. The encounter, through its thoughtful organization and the collective spirit of those present, became a conduit for divine grace, transforming hard work into “heavenly molecules” that continue to inspire and uplift long after the event has concluded. The Verbum Dei Easter Encounter 2024 in Luzon was not just an event but a milestone in the spiritual journeys of all who attended, a reminder of the timeless message of Easter and the transformative power of love and sacrifice. |
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January 2025
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