THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE AUGUSTINIAN NOVITIATE AND PRAYER HOUSE
COMMUNITY FRIARS
THE NOVICES
CANONICAL YEAR 2024-2025
VOLUME VI N0.4
APRIL-MAY-JUNE
MONTHLY RECOLLECTION (APRIL)
A SAINT FOR THE IMPOSSIBLE, A BEACON
OF PEACE IN THE YEAR OF THE HOPE
FEATURING:
NOV. JAY VEE & SEMPER
ORDINATION TO THE SACRED ORDER OF PRESBYTERS
460TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FINDING OF THE IMAGE OF STO. NIÑO
NEWLY ORDAINED AUGUSTINIAN PRIEST FROM VICARIATE OF OUR LADY OF GRACE, INDIA
AN AUGUSTINIAN SHEPHERD FOR THE UNIVERSAL CHURCH
DILEXIT NOS: A TRIBUTE TO POPE FRANCIS AND THE RETURN TO CALL TO LOVE
FEAST OF ST. RITA
(SANCTUARY OF ST. RITA OF CASCIA LOWER MOHON, TALISAY CITY, CEBU)
MESSAGES
NOVICE MASTER
Greetings and salutations to all those who read our newsletter,
The Augustinian Novitiate and Prayer House known as ANPH, is a superb place where two great continents converge under the novitiate formation program organized and unified by the Augustinian Major Superiors from Asia and Australia also known as OSAAP (Order of Saint Augustine in the Asia Pacific). Under the gentle care of OSAAP the house is running a program called APAN or Asia Pacific Augustinian Novitiate.
ANPH as a holder of the umbrella of APAN is a beautiful and fitting place where the young novices from Asia and Australia come to meet and to emerge in working for the City of God under the fold of OSAAP. The novices of this canonical year (2024 to 2025), following the vision of our Holy Father Pope Francis to support our ecological systems, our official newsletter called The Kintsuban are publishing it in digital form.
I would like to express my congratulations to our novices, the gifts of God to our Order for the Jubilee year 2025, for your outstanding work. I hope our readers will embrace and support this new change of our newsletter. God bless you and our readers.
Dear readers, please keep all of us in your prayers!
Digitally yours
Fr.Dipi, OSA
Dear Novices,
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you for your inspiring initiative of launching the first newsletter in digital form. This step is not only a creative way to showcase your life and experiences, but also a profound means through which you will be able to spread the fragrance of Christ to all those who read it. It serves as a beautiful reflection of your commitment to share Christ’s love and truth in a world that thirsts for it.
In bringing this newsletter to life, you are also manifesting the rich and profound Augustinian spirituality. As Our Holy Father St. Augustine says, “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” Through your words, actions, and reflections, you are echoing this eternal truth—bringing your own restlessness, your search for God, into the light for others to witness and be inspired by. In doing so, you are helping to lead others closer to the heart of God, the only place where true peace can be found.
With blessings and prayers.
REGIONAL VICAR
VICARIATE OF OUR LADY OF GRACE, INDIA
REV. FR. WILSON, OSA
Greetings!
First of all, my sincere congratulations on the publication of the first issue of the digital edition of The Kintsuban. This is indeed a significant milestone in your life as novices. It is a testament to your dedication as you undergo this important stage of your formation into religious life. I have no doubt it will also help you deepen your thoughts and reflections on the meaning and importance of this stage in your formation.
Moreover, aside from offering you a venue to express your thoughts and reflections, this publication also becomes a channel for you to share them with others. As this will reach readers from other circumscriptions, it will be tangible proof that the Asia-Pacific Augustinian Novitiate (APAN) Program, conceived eight years ago, is still flourishing and continues to form novices for the growth of the Order of St. Augustine and the Church in the Asia-Pacific region. This is one way of keeping and spreading the Augustinian legacy in this part of the world.
Keep it up! And once again, congratulations!
PRIOR OF THE HOUSE
REV. FR. ELIAS JEROME, OSA
460TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FINDING OF THE IMAGE OF STO. NIÑO
On April 28, 2025, the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño solemnly commemorated the 460th anniversary of the finding of the image of the Santo Niño—an event known as Kaplag, which means “discovery” or “finding.”
The celebration began at 5:30 PM with a reenactment of the historic finding, performed by the San Diego Dance Company, setting a reflective tone for the evening. The highlight of the celebration was a Pontifical Mass presided over by the Most Rev. Jose S. Palma, D.D., Archbishop of Cebu, together with Augustinian priests from the Province of Santo Niño de Cebu–Philippines.
In his homily, Archbishop Palma emphasized the spiritual significance of the Santo Niño. He reminded the faithful that in the childlike image of the Holy Child, we see the greatness and goodness of God. Though small in form, the Santo Niño is revered as King by millions of devotees worldwide. He is a symbol of protection, joy, and unwavering trust in God’s presence, especially during difficult times.
After the Mass, a commemorative photo session was held with the presiding clergy, Augustinian Contemplative Nuns and Friars, the Hermano and Hermana for the year, and the Novices. The celebration concluded with a fellowship dinner inside the Basilica convent, where the community came together in unity and thanksgiving, rejoicing in 460 years of faith, history, and devotion to the Santo Niño.
ORDINATION TO THE SACRED ORDER OF PRESBYTERS
Last May 08, 2025, in a solemn rite held at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu, seven friars from the Augustinian Province of Santo Niño de Cebu-Philippines were ordained to the priesthood. The newly ordained priests are: Rev. Fr. Jeremy Jonas Reyes Alcaria, OSA; Rev. Fr. Ronel Marollano Bayon-on, OSA; Rev. Fr. Nemie Boy Rosaceña Cataluña, OSA; Rev. Fr. Glenn Atendido Macorol, OSA; Rev. Fr. King Villacastin Nepangue, OSA; Rev. Fr. CSN Salvacion Pomoy, OSA; Rev. Fr. Harvey Kent Sanchez Solatorio, OSA.
Archbishop John Du of Palo, who presided over the Ordination, offered an inspiring homily in which he reminded that the priesthood is not a title of privilege, but a vocation of radical love and service. “The world tells you to seek power and wealth,” he said, “but the priesthood demands the opposite: self-emptying, humility, and closeness to those who suffer.”
The presence of the novices was especially meaningful, as they beheld what could be their own future path in the Order. The event concluded with heartfelt blessings and a joyful reception, where the newly ordained, their families and friends and the Augustinian family shared moments of fraternity and thanksgiving.
MONTHLY RECOLLETION WITH FR. JULES, OSA
Last April 12, 2025, the novices of the Asia Pacific Augustinian Novitiate House gathered once again for their monthly recollection, this time centered on the theme “Augustine on Humility.” The session was facilitated by Fr. Jules Van Almirez, OSA.
This month’s recollection focused on humility, a cornerstone of the Augustinian way of life. Fr. Jules highlighted humility as a fundamental virtue that every Augustinian is called to embody within the context of communal living and spiritual growth.
“Humility is not weakness, but a strength that leads us to true happiness — to God, who is the supreme and imperishable source of joy,” Fr. Jules shared during his reflection. He described humility as the “silent vow” of Augustinian life, often unspoken but deeply lived.
Fr. Jules further emphasized that humility is essential not only for religious life but for every Christian striving toward holiness. He challenged the novices — young men discerning their religious vocation — to integrate humility into every aspect of their lives. “Whatever achievements, knowledge, or positions we may hold,” he said, “it is humility, not pride, that should define us.”
The recollection concluded with a period of silent prayer and reflection, giving the novices time to internalize the message and discern how they might live out humility more fully in their journey toward religious life.
The monthly recollections are part of the ongoing formation program of the Asia Pacific Augustinian Novitiate, which seeks to nurture spiritual depth and community values among future Augustinian religious.
DILEXIT NOS: A TRIBUTE TO POPE FRANCIS AND THE RETURN TO CALL TO LOVE
In an age marked by noise, distraction, and the unrelenting pursuit of more, Pope Francis, in his encyclical Dilexit Nos (“He Loved Us”), extends a heartfelt and urgent invitation: to return to the One who first loved us. This work is not merely a theological reflection—it is a prophetic cry from the heart of a shepherd who sees his flock wandering in a world that prizes possessions over people, profit over purpose, and success over selflessness.
In Dilexit Nos, Pope Francis confronts the cultural currents that define our modern world: materialism, consumerism, and the idolization of individualism. He describes a society where human worth is increasingly tied to what one owns rather than who one is. In such a landscape, relationships are commodified, dignity is compromised, and people are measured not by the depth of their humanity but by the height of their achievements.
But the Pope does not leave us in despair. At the center of his message shines a radiant, countercultural truth: the enduring, unconditional love of Christ. This love, as Francis reminds us, is not transactional. It does not operate by the logic of the market, where everything has a price and nothing is sacred. Instead, it is a gratuitous love—a gift given freely, without expectation of return. It is this love that shatters the illusions of consumer culture and awakens the soul to its true identity and purpose.
Christ’s love, Pope Francis insists, is a transformative force. It liberates us from the suffocating grip of endless desires and restores our ability to see, to feel, and to love without condition. In the Heart of Christ, we rediscover our own hearts. We are reminded that we are not what we consume, what we produce, or what we achieve—we are beloved, simply and profoundly. And in this recognition, we are made free.
In honoring Pope Francis through Dilexit Nos, we honor a pastor deeply attuned to the wounds of the world, yet unyielding in his hope for its healing. He offers no easy answers, but a clear path: to contemplate the love of Christ and to live that love out loud. It is a call to return—not to an idealized past, but to a divine origin, where our worth is rooted in love, and our future is shaped by mercy.
In the Pope’s own words, we are called to “relearn how to love.” This is not a sentimental gesture, but a radical act of resistance in a world that teaches us to love conditionally. To love gratuitously is to be fully alive. And in doing so, we echo the divine voice that speaks through Dilexit Nos—a voice that whispers across centuries and into our restless hearts: “He loved us first.”
St. Rita of Cascia: A Saint for the Impossible, A Beacon of Peace in the Year of Hope
As the Church celebrates the Year of Hope, we turn our hearts toward saints who not only believed in hope but embodied it—in their struggles, in their silence, and in their surrender. Among them stands St. Rita of Cascia, a woman of great suffering, radical forgiveness, and unwavering trust in God.
St. Rita lived in 14th-century Italy, a time torn by violence, wars, and family feuds. She was not born a mystic, a visionary, or a miracle-worker. She was a wife, a mother, a widow, and eventually an Augustinian nun. Her path was filled with sorrow: the murder of her husband, the death of her sons, and the painful rejection she initially faced when seeking religious life. And yet, what shines through her story is not tragedy, but hope—a hope that defied despair.
Hope in a Wounded World
In today’s world, Rita’s life is more relevant than ever. As wars rage across nations, and millions of lives are disrupted by violence, injustice, and division, many feel that peace is no longer possible. The weight of global conflict, along with personal and communal suffering, tempts us to believe that hatred has won, and that reconciliation is a fantasy.
But St. Rita is the saint of the impossible. She reminds us, especially in this Year of Hope, that no situation is beyond God’s healing hand. Her refusal to return violence with vengeance, her constant prayer in the face of loss, and her surrender to God’s will show us that true peace comes not through power, but through faith—faith that God’s love can make all things new.
A Thorn That Heals
In the latter part of her life, St. Rita received a mystical wound on her forehead, as though sharing in the crown of thorns worn by Christ. This was not a punishment, but a sign of her deep union with the suffering and redemptive love of Jesus. In a world that bears many wounds—the scars of war, the pain of hatred, the divisions among families and nations—St. Rita teaches us that we, too, can offer our pain to God, allowing it to become a source of compassion, healing, and hope.
The thorn she bore was a mark of love—a visible sign that pain, when united with Christ, is never wasted. In this Year of Hope, we are invited to look at our own wounds not as signs of defeat, but as openings through which God’s grace can flow.
A Message of Peace and Forgiveness
Rita’s life is a testament that peace is always possible, not because the world becomes easier, but because our hearts become softer. Her story calls us to forgiveness in a culture of revenge, to prayer in a world of noise, and to hope when despair feels justified.
She reminds us that peace begins in the heart, and when one person chooses forgiveness over retaliation, the ripple effect can reach far beyond what we can imagine. In this year marked by the Church as a Year of Hope, St. Rita offers us a living blueprint of what hope in action looks like: courageous, compassionate, and rooted in the Cross.
With God, Nothing Is Impossible
In a time when so much seems broken—relationships, nations, even our trust in humanity—this message becomes our anchor. May St. Rita of Cascia, the Peacemaker of her time, continue to intercede for a world crying out for healing. And may we, in this Year of Hope, walk forward with the same quiet strength she showed—bearing our own thorns with love, sowing peace where there is hatred, and believing with all our hearts that God is still writing stories of the impossible.
Pope Leo XIV: An Augustinian Shepherd for the Universal Church
In a historic moment for the Church and the Augustinian family, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, OSA, has been elected as the 268th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, choosing the name Pope Leo XIV. His election has been met with joy and hope by Catholics around the world, especially by his fellow Augustinians, who now see one of their own guiding the universal Church.
Stepping onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica for the first time as Pope, he greeted the faithful with a message of peace, inspired by the first words of the risen Christ. He emphasized a desire for this message of peace to echo throughout the world—into families, nations, and hearts everywhere. It was a gesture of unity, a pastoral outreach that characterized the spirit of his ministry long before ascending to the papacy.
The timing of his election holds deep spiritual significance. May 8 marks several sacred observances within the Church: The Feast of the Apparition of St. Michael the Archangel at Monte Gargano, the Feast of Our Lady of Pompeii, and, especially dear to Augustinians, the Feast of Our Lady of Grace. These layers of meaning added a profound spiritual depth to the day, a sign of Mary’s maternal presence and intercession during a new beginning for the Church.
Pope Leo XIV also reminded the faithful of his identity as a member of the Order of St. Augustine. In the spirit of St. Augustine’s vision of servant leadership and communal journey, he spoke of his desire to walk with all people, not above them, but beside them as a fellow Christian. His commitment to the Church is one of shared pilgrimage—toward the eternal homeland prepared by God.
Mindful of the day’s Marian devotion, he invited all gathered in St. Peter’s Square and around the world to unite in prayer, invoking the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. He expressed trust in her ongoing closeness to the Church and her willingness to guide, support, and protect the People of God as a loving Mother.
Pope Leo XIV brings with him a wealth of pastoral and missionary experience, shaped by decades of service as an Augustinian friar, bishop, and more recently as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops. Known for his deep spirituality, humility, and commitment to justice and unity, he is seen as a shepherd who leads not with authority alone, but with compassion and integrity.
His election is a moment of profound pride for the Augustinian Order, whose values of interiority, truth, community, and love for God are now embodied in the leadership of the universal Church. For all Catholics, Pope Leo XIV represents a renewed call to journey together in peace, humility, and faith.
As the Church enters a new chapter under his guidance, the world looks to him not only as a Pope, but as a servant-leader grounded in the Gospel and in the wisdom of Augustine—a man called from among his brothers to serve all as father and shepherd.
JANUARY-FEBRUARY-MARCH
460TH FIESTA SEÑOR
AUGUSTINIAN NOVICES JOINS WALK WITH JESUS
NOVICES, CONTEMPLATION THE DIVINE LOVE OF THE HEART OF JESUS - DILEXIT NOS
FEATURING:
NOV.JOHN REY & EARL
FLUVIAL PROCESSION 2025
4OTH YEARS IN JOURNEY OF GRACE
6OTH YEARS OF GOD'S LOVE AND FIDELITY
St. Rita of Cascia
Fr. Peter Jones, OSA Visits Augustinian Novitiate and Prayer House
MONTLY RECOLLECTIONS (FEBRUARY)
Vicar General of the Order Of St. Augustine Visits Augustinian Novitiate and Prayer House
AUGUSTINIAN NOVICES JOIN WALK WITH JESUS
On January 9, 2025, at 4:00 AM, the Augustinian Novices, accompanied by their house prior, Rev. Fr. Elias Jerome P. Medina, OSA, participated in the solemn penitential walk with Jesus, marking the beginning of the 460th Fiesta Señor.
This annual event brought together clerics, consecrated men and women, seminarians, devotees and pilgrims of the Holy Child of Cebu from different walks of life with an estimated 160,000 attendees for this year.
The procession assembled at the Fuente Osmeña Rotunda, journeying toward the Pilgrim Center of the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu.
The streets were alive with large audio speakers aiding the praying of the Holy Rosary. Devotees were carrying images of Sto. Niño and the blessed Virgin Mary with lighted candles, waving their hands in supplications especially when the Gozos was sung. Despite the gentle rain, the procession proceeded, exemplifying Cebuanos unwavering faith, hope and devotion to the Sto. Niño de Cebu.
The novices, especially those who attended for the first time, were deeply moved by the profound expressions of faith and devotion of the faithful. This experience served as a poignant reminder of the rich spiritual heritage of the Sto. Niño to the Filipinos in general and for Cebuanos in particular.
The Augustinian novices also took great pride and honor in recognizing the great role of our Augustinian forefathers for the enduring significance of this devotion through the ages that they nourished and strengthened since 1565.
In this year of hope, the novices were filled with inspiration that this devotion will be a source of our unity as one family journeying together to and with Christ, our beloved King and protector, Sr. Sto. Niño de Cebu. Viva Pit Senyor!
460TH FIESTA SEÑOR: A SPECTACLE OF FAITH AS NOVICES WITNESS DEVOTEES OF THE STO. NIÑO DE CEBU
The 460th Fiesta Señor celebration has drawn thousands of devotees and pilgrims from around the world to the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu. The Augustinian Novices witnessed the outpouring of devotion as the faithful gathered in all novena masses from January 9 to January 18, 2025.
This year’s theme, “Sto Niño: Hope of the Pilgrim Church,” resonated with the collective hope of the pilgrims as devotees filled the Basilica, Pilgrim Center, and surrounding streets. The novices stood in awe, deeply inspired by the faith they witnessed. Every mass evokes goosebumps as they experience this powerful expression of devotion.
The traditional loud outcry “Viva Pit señor! And “Viva Señor Sto. Niño” which translates as ‘Hail Lord, listen to our prayers!’ and ‘Hail, Lord Holy Child!’ echoed throughout every mass from the hearts and lips of the congregation. These short phrases are prayers of the faithful and hopeful people of the Father who sent His beloved Son to remind us of how much He loved us by giving us a child, who radiates the message of humility and obedience.
60TH YEARS OF GOD'S LOVE AND FIDELITY
On February 28, 2025, the Augustinian Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu celebrated the 60th anniversary of the reconsecration of rededication of the erstwhile San Agustin Church, now known as the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu.
In the year 1965, the Most Reverend Archbishop of Cebu, Julio Cardinal Rosales, DD, re-dedicated the church after the 1964 extensive renovation. The altar was solemnly consecrated and deposited in it the relics of Martyred Saints Reparatus and Vitalis. In April of the same year, the church was raised to the rank of Basilica Minore by Pope Saint Paul VI.
Before the mass, the Basilica Community opened an exhibit titled “Balay Dalangpanan” which translates as house of refuge, which aims to commemorate and celebrate the events in 1965. In his welcome remarks, Fr. Andres Rivera, Jr., OSA, the Rector of Basilica, highlights that the Basilica is not only a place of worship but also a temple of refuge for devotees.
At 5:30 in the afternoon, the Eucharistic celebration was presided over by the Most Rev. Medyphill Billones. In his homily, he emphasized the significance of this occasion. Bishop Billones described the Basilica’s dedication as a love story, stating: “Jesus dedicates His body and blood for our redemption. It is also where we dedicate ourselves to Him. The only problem is, we are forgetful people.”
Using a heartfelt analogy, he likened the dedication of the Basilica to requesting and dedicating a love song through a radio DJ. In this metaphor, the Augustinian Fathers and Brothers are the ones making the call to request a song for their loved ones.
He further explained that every dedication call has a recipient—the people of God, the Church, and all faithful worldwide. At the heart of it all, the one who plays the dedicated song is the Divine DJ—Dominus Iesus (Lord Jesus)—who sings back His love for us.
This event served as a reminder that the rededication is not just a moment in history to be retold, but a “prayer to refresh our love story and retell God’s love and fidelity” in this house of refuge.
40TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION OF THE ORDER OF SAINT AUGUSTINE CULMINATES IN CEBU
On January 15, 2025, the Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu celebrated the culmination of the year-long 40th-anniversary celebration with a solemn Mass. The event took place on the 7th day of the Novena in Honor of Señor Santo Niño de Cebu, drawing a large congregation of members of the Order, devotees and volunteers.
The Mass was presided over by the Very Rev. Joseph L. Farrell, OSA, Vicar General of the Order. In his homily, Fr. Farrell emphasized the importance of gratitude, urging the faithful to reflect on God’s abundant blessings. “In our lives, we must recognize the countless opportunities we have to serve others and deepen our love for God and one another,” he said, inspiring attendees to remain steadfast in their faith and commitment to service.
The celebration was marked by a spirit of unity and fellowship, as the community gathered to honor both their spiritual heritage and the milestones of the Order. Following the Mass, a Thanksgiving Dinner was held, providing a meaningful opportunity for attendees to share in joy and camaraderie. This gathering allowed members of the Order, and guests to connect and celebrate their shared faith and commitment to service.
The novices, along with seminarians from the San Agustin Center of Studies and solemnly professed priests and friars, gathered to serve as the choir for the event. They also performed selected songs during the Thanksgiving dinner.
The culmination of the 40th anniversary of the Order of Saint Augustine in Cebu not only highlighted the rich history of the Order but also reinforced the province and the order’s dedication to its apostolic mission of love and service.
NOVICES JOINED THE FLUVIAL AND SOLEMN FOOT PROCESSION
On January 18, 2025, the novices alongside the augustinian friars and diocesan priests in the vibrant fluvial procession, a key highlight of the annual Fiesta Señor celebration honoring the Santo Niño de Cebu. (Holy Child Jesus).
The procession featured the participation of over 355 vessels, highlighting the deepening devotion among the faithful. The MV Santo Niño de Cebu served as the official galleon, carrying the miraculous image of the Holy Child, along with Our Lady of Guadalupe and Saint Joseph, completing the Holy Family. The novices were fortunate to board the same galleon as these sacred images. The procession was graced by the presence of the Archbishop of Cebu, Most Rev. Jose S. Palma, DD.
Thousands of devotees lined the shores, from Lapu-Lapu City, Mandaue City and Cebu City, waving and dancing sinulog as the galleon passed by even miles away from them. The atmosphere was filled with prayers, faith and hope creating a lively, goosebumps and inspiring scene.
The fluvial procession commenced at the Naval Forces Central (NAVFORCEN) port in Mactan Island at 6 a.m., traversing the Mactan Channel before concluding at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño in Cebu City. This procession reenacts the arrival of the Santo Niño in Cebu in 1521, marking a significant moment in the history of Christianity in the Philippines, and is a cherished tradition that draws large crowds each year.
Following the fluvial procession, another short foot procession took place from Pier 1 to the Basilica, featuring a reenactment of the first baptism and first wedding in Cebu. In the afternoon, the replica of Señor Sto. Niño was venerated inside the Basilica, led by the Most Reverend Jose S. Palma, along with Augustinian friars, novices, and several religious and diocesan priests. After the veneration, the image was placed in its carroza for the solemn foot procession, which saw an estimated 1.4 million devotees participating.
Despite the heat and humidity, the event proceeded smoothly and concluded two hours ahead of schedule. The novices observed the unwavering faith of the devotees, which inspired them and highlighted the significance of this annual celebration as a vibrant reminder of devotion to the Holy Child.
Fr. Peter Jones, OSA Visits Augustinian Novitiate and Prayer House
From February 14 to 17, 2025, the Asia-Pacific Augustinian Novitiate and Prayer House in Talisay City, Cebu, welcomed Very Rev. Fr. Peter Jones, OSA, Prior Provincial of Our Mother of Good Counsel Province in Australia. His visit was an opportunity for both personal connection and spiritual enrichment, offering the novices an insightful class.
Fr. Peter’s visit to Cebu was part of a broader pastoral journey throughout the Philippines, which also included visits to fellow Augustinian communities in Manila and Quezon City.
One of the most notable aspects of Fr. Jone’s visit was a special class he held with the novices on “The Interior Aspect of a Restless Heart.” Fr. Peter emphasized that the restless heart, central to Augustine’s own spiritual journey, is not a solitary quest but a communal one.
For St. Augustine, Fr. Jones explained, “the search for God is never done in isolation. We seek God as a community, within the Church, which is not just an institution but a people—the people of God. It is a community that is universal, all-embracing, and without prejudice.”
He highlighted that, as future ministers of the Augustinian Order, the novices must always be mindful that their spiritual journey is intrinsically linked to the people they serve. “You are not alone in this search,” he urged. “You are part of something much greater—the Augustinian Order, the Church, and the people who need you.”
In his discussions with the novices, He also spoke about the expanding mission of the Order of St. Augustine in the Asia-Pacific region (OSSAP) and the Asia Pacific Augustinian Conference (APAC). He encouraged the young friars to be open to the diverse cultural and pastoral needs within the region, emphasizing the universality of the Augustinian charism.
Another powerful topic that Fr. Jone addressed was clericalism, focusing on the concept of servant leadership. He drew from the Gospel account of Jesus washing the feet of His disciples—a symbol of humility and self-sacrifice that underscores the true nature of Christian leadership.
He emphasized that as future ministers, the novices must not isolate themselves from the struggles and worries of others. Pastoral care, he said, is not just about offering spiritual guidance but offering genuine, compassionate care for those who are suffering.
Fr.Jones visit was also an opportunity for him to connect with the broader Augustinian family in the Philippines. While in Cebu, he visited the Prior Provincial of the Cebu Province, Very Rev. Fr. Andrew Batayola, OSA, and spent time with the families of the friars from Cebu Province who are ascribed to the Australian Province. This visit fostered a deeper sense of communion between the two provinces, strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and solidarity within the Augustinian Order.
Before returning to Australia, He also visited two other Augustinian communities in the Philippines. He traveled to the St. Augustine Center of Studies in Quezon City, where he spent time with the Vietnamese brothers, as well as to Seminario San Agustin in Intramuros, Manila.
Vicar General of the Order Of St. Augustine Visits Augustinian Novitiate and Prayer House
Last January 2025, the Augustinian Novitiate and Prayer House in Talisay City, Cebu, was graced with a significant visit by Very Rev. Joseph L. Farrel, OSA, Vicar General of the Order of St. Augustine. This occasion not only marked the culmination of the year-long 40th-anniversary celebration of the Order, but also provided a moment of spiritual reflection for the novices in formation.
A solemn Mass at the Basilica del Sto. Niño de Cebu was presided over by Fr. Farrel, which was a central part of the 40th-anniversary celebrations of the Augustinian Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu. In his homily, Fr. Farrel encouraged the congregation to remain steadfast in offering gratitude to God for His abundant blessings, urging everyone to recognize the countless opportunities for service in their daily lives. He emphasized the importance of deepening one’s love for God and for one another, a message that resonates strongly within the Augustinian charism, which centers on community, humility, and service.
The celebration concluded with a Thanksgiving Dinner, a moment of fellowship that brought together the Augustinian community, the novices, and invited guests. The dinner provided an opportunity for all present to reflect on the significance of the day’s events, share in the joy of the celebration, and deepen their bonds within the Augustinian family.
Fr. Farrel led a special class for the novices of the Asia-Pacific Augustinian Novitiate, providing them with valuable spiritual guidance and insights into the life and teachings of St. Augustine, as well as the meaning behind the three vows of the Augustinian Order: poverty, chastity, and obedience.
As the 40th-anniversary celebrations of the Order of St. Augustine came to a close, the visit of Fr. Farrel served as a powerful reminder of the Order’s enduring mission and the spiritual depth of the Augustinian charism. The day was a celebration not only of the Order’s history but also of the ongoing journey of faith that continues to shape the lives of those who are called to live as Augustinians.
Monthly Recollection with Fr. Mier: Exploring Augustine on Prayer
Cebu City, Philippines – On February 22, 2025, the novices of the Order of Saint Augustine (OSA) gathered for their monthly recollection led by Fr. John Jericho Mier, OSA. This month’s theme, “Augustine on Prayer,” offered a profound opportunity for the novices to deepen their understanding of prayer as an essential aspect of their religious journey and discernment.
The recollection began with a reflective session, where Fr. Mier emphasized the significance of prayer in the life of Saint Augustine. He articulated that for Augustine, prayer is not merely a ritual but a heartfelt desire—a compelling urge to engage in dialogue with God. This dialogue is seen as an expression of the soul’s longing, serving as a vital interior experience that connects individuals with the Divine.
Fr. Mier encouraged the novices to view prayer as an integral part of their daily lives rather than an obligation. He reminded them that prayer should be woven into the fabric of their habit, becoming a natural expression of their relationship with God. This perspective allows prayer to transform from a routine task into a vital source of spiritual nourishment, fostering a deeper connection with their faith.
Throughout the session, the novices engaged in personal reflections on their experiences with prayer. Fr. Mier guided them in recognizing that the act of praying is a quest for God, fueled by an ardent and fervent desire to seek His presence.
The recollection concluded with a period of communal prayer, allowing the novices to put into practice the teachings they had absorbed. This shared experience reinforced the sense of community among the novices, as they supported one another in their spiritual journeys.
Overall, the monthly recollection provided a meaningful space for the novices to reflect on the importance of prayer in their lives. By exploring Augustine’s teachings, they were reminded that prayer is not just a duty but a way of life—an essential part of their ongoing quest for a deeper relationship with God.
Featuring: Augustinian Saints and Reflections
St. Rita of Cascia and the Power of Faith in Tough Times
Nov. Earl John C. Mutia
St. Rita of Cascia was born in 1381 in Roccaporena, Italy, into a Christian family. Although she wanted to become a nun, her parents arranged for her to marry Paolo Mancini, a man involved in a violent family feud. Despite his temper, Rita prayed for him, and over time, Paolo changed. However, the feud continued, and Paolo was eventually killed by a rival family.
Rita’s two sons wanted to avenge their father’s death but Rita prayed they would not seek revenge. Sadly, both sons became sick and died before they could act. Heartbroken, Rita chose to dedicate her life fully to God and entered the Augustinian convent in Cascia at the age of 36. Despite her age, she was accepted by the nuns and spent the rest of her life in prayer and service.
One of the most famous miracles of her life was a thorn wound she received while praying, symbolizing her deep connection with Christ’s suffering. Rita lived out the rest of her life in the convent, known for her patience, love, and forgiveness. She died on May 22, 1457.
St. Rita was declared a saint in 1900 and is the patroness of difficult situations, especially troubled marriages and seemingly impossible causes. Her story inspires many to trust in God’s love and strength, even in the most challenging times.
St. Rita of Cascia is a saint whose example shows us how to face difficulties with faith, forgiveness, and trust in God. Her life teaches us that, no matter how tough things get, we can rely on God to help us through.
At times in our lives when everything seems too difficult to handle, and we don’t know how to get through the challenges, we must remember St. Rita’s faith, forgiving heart, and unwavering trust in God.
Faith in Hard Times
In the Gospel, Jesus says in Matthew 17:20: “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can move mountains.” This means that even if our faith feels small or weak, it can still achieve amazing things with God’s help. St. Rita’s life was filled with struggles—personal loss, family violence, and sorrow. Yet, she never lost her trust in God. Like St. Rita, we too can face our challenges with faith, knowing that God is with us, even when we feel overwhelmed.
Have you ever felt like you’re facing a mountain of problems? Maybe it’s a relationship that’s falling apart, the loss of a loved one, or just the pressure of daily life. It can feel like we’re stuck. But Jesus reminds us that even with the smallest faith, we can get through tough times. Our faith might not always feel big, but God can use it to bring us through anything.
The Power of Forgiveness
One of the most important lessons from St. Rita’s life is forgiveness. In Matthew 18:21-22, Peter asks Jesus: “Lord, how many times should I forgive someone who wrongs me? Up to seven times?” Jesus responds, “Not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” Forgiveness isn’t easy. When people hurt us, we often want to hold on to our anger or seek revenge. But Jesus teaches us to forgive repeatedly, no matter how many times we’re hurt. St. Rita understood this well. Despite her suffering, she chose to forgive those who wronged her. Forgiveness doesn’t mean pretending the hurt didn’t happen; it’s about letting go of anger so we don’t carry it around. When we forgive, we free ourselves from the burden of hatred. It’s hard, but Jesus calls us to forgive, just as He forgives us every time we fail.
Trusting God’s Plan
Another lesson we can learn from St. Rita is the importance of trusting God’s plan. Romans 8:28 says: “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” St. Rita faced deep pain and confusion in her life, yet she trusted that God was working for her good, even when things seemed impossible. Life doesn’t always go as planned; sometimes we face struggles we don’t understand. But like St. Rita, we can trust that God has a plan for us, even when we can’t see it. In our busy, sometimes chaotic lives, it’s easy to feel anxious and wonder why things happen the way they do. However, when we trust that God is always with us and is working things out for our good, we can find peace, even in tough times.
Living Faith in Today’s World
We live in a world full of stress, problems, and uncertainty. The pressures of work, family, and relationships can weigh heavily on us, making us feel overwhelmed. But St. Rita shows us that faith, forgiveness, and trust in God are just as important today as they were in her time. When things are hard, we are called to have faith, even if it feels small. We are called to forgive, even when it’s difficult. And we are called to trust that God is working in our lives, even when we don’t understand His plan.
Lastly, St. Rita teaches us that no matter how hard life gets, we don’t have to face it alone. With God’s help, our faith can move mountains. By forgiving others and trusting God, we can find peace in any situation.
St. Magdalene of Nagasaki
NOV. REYMARK CARCEDO
Loving and following Christ is not easy. Each struggle or trial presents its own challenges, such as rejection and abandonment. There is no easy path; being Christlike means experiencing and embracing these struggles as our cross. Indeed, Christ himself embraced death on the cross for us.
One inspiring example is St. Magdalene of Nagasaki. Born around 1611 in Nagasaki, Japan, she was introduced to Christianity by her devout parents, early converts who laid the spiritual foundation for her faith. During her lifetime, Christians in Japan faced severe persecution, yet Magdalene courageously refused to renounce her beliefs.
Despite the threats to her safety, she served selflessly as a catechist and translator for Augustinian missionaries, embodying what it means to bear one’s cross. Magdalene voluntarily surrendered to the authorities, following the path of martyrdom. For two weeks, she endured a gruesome execution method known as “the pit,” designed to force Christians to renounce their faith. Even amidst such torment, she remained steadfast, ultimately dying a martyr for her beliefs in 1634. She embraced death for the sake of Christ, choosing to die rather than deny her faith.
Dear friends, we too can take inspiration from her life. Each of us faces struggles, and in our weaknesses, we may be tempted to evade trials and reject Christ’s invitation to embrace our crosses. Many fear the challenges of rejection, abandonment, and suffering. When you face such fears, look to St. Magdalene as a symbol of strength in embracing life’s struggles.
In our seminary journey, we encounter various challenges—loneliness, weariness, or misunderstandings with our brothers. These struggles are integral to forming true lovers and followers of Christ. Experiencing hardship allows us to understand what it means to be Christlike. It is natural to feel overwhelmed at times, but we must not surrender our commitment to love and follow Him. Remember, Christ is present not only in moments of joy but also in our suffering.
I recall my own struggles during thesis writing in college. I often doubted my abilities and considered giving up due to academic challenges. At times, I distanced myself from God, not wanting to face the pain. Ultimately, I realized that God does not present us with problems without providing solutions. There is always a purpose behind our struggles, and we do not have to face them alone—inviting God into our challenges is essential. Everything we do should be offered to Him, guiding us to become true lovers and followers of Christ.
Finally, true lovers and followers of Christ are destined to be with Him. Like St. Magdalene, who may have died young but was prepared a dwelling place by Christ, we too will receive our reward in heaven when we embrace the cross. Through our struggles, we become genuine followers of Christ.
Explanation of the elements of the Asia-Pacific Augustinian Novitiate logo:
Heart with Flame – The heart symbolizes the restless heart of our Holy Father Saint Augustine, reflecting the deep yearning for God that characterizes every Augustinian. The flame atop the heart signifies the burning love for God and for our neighbors, a guiding force that drives the Augustinian vocation.
Arrow – The arrow represents the Word of God, which alone can bring peace to the restless heart. The Word of God is what completes and satisfies the longing of the heart, providing spiritual rest and fulfillment.
Two Augustinians in Different Colors – On the left side of the heart, two figures of Augustinians appear in different colors. The Augustinian in yellow symbolizes the Augustinians in Australia, while the one in the color of fire represents the Augustinians in Asia. Together, they reflect the unity and diversity of the Order across Asia and Australia.
Cross Inside the Heart – The cross inside the heart is inspired by Magellan’s Cross in Cebu City, Philippines, where the Novitiate formation program takes place. This cross serves as a reminder to the novices of their mission to proclaim the Word of God, which is central to their calling.
Seven Novices Beside the Cross – The number seven is biblically significant, symbolizing perfection and completeness. It recalls the novices’ baptismal consecration, marking their commitment to God. The seven novices, depicted in various colors, each represent a unique aspect of their spiritual journey:
- Blue: Reminds the novices to imitate the Blessed Virgin Mary as a true disciple of Christ.
- Yellow: Highlights the need for religious fidelity to the teachings of the Church.
- Green: Represents the joy of religious life, a life filled with genuine and eternal joy in communion with God.
- Violet: signifies that vocation is a precious gift from God entrusted to us, calling us to embrace the Augustinian ideal of interiority.
- Gray: Reflects the core Augustinian values of Unity (Unitas), Charity (Caritas), and Truth (Veritas), guiding the novices in their formation.
- Black: Symbolizes human mortality and limitations, reminding the novices to live humbly under God’s grace.
- Red: Represents the call to preach the Kingdom of God with unwavering commitment, trust, obedience, and love, engaging in mission with courage and conviction.
Open Book Under the Heart – The open book signifies the Rule of Saint Augustine, the Constitutions and traditions of the Order of Saint Augustine. The first page represents the OSAAP (Order of Saint Augustine – Asia-Pacific). The second page symbolizes the APAN (Asia-Pacific Augustinian Novitiate), where the Novitiate formation program is carried out, An Augustinian Novitiate program under the guidance of OSAAP.
VOLUME VI N0.3
OCTOBER-nOVEMBER-DECEMBER
St. John of Sahagun: A Preacher of truth,
advocate of social justice and lover of the Most blessed Sacrament.
Monthly Recollection (October)
FEATURING:
NOV. DENNIS & REYMARK
NOVICES WITNESS ORDINATION OF SEVEN DEACONS
ANPH Hosted the Paskong Agustino 2024:
A Heartwarming Celebration of Faith and Unity
Saint Thomas of Villanova: An Epitome of a Balance Life of Intellectual and Practical Deeds
Montly Recollection(November)
MONTLY RECOLLECTIONS (DECEMBER)
VOLUME VI N0.2
NOVICES WITNESS ORDINATION OF SEVEN DEACONS
On November 9, 2024, a significant event of the province and the order unfolded as seven Friars of from the province of Sto. Niño de Cebu were ordained to the Sacred Order of Deacons by the Most Reverend Jose Sorofia Palma, DD., the metropolitan-Bishop of Cebu. The Augustinian Novitiate was filled with hope and prayer during this ceremony, not only for the newly-ordained deacons but also for themselves. The occasion bolstered their dedication to the religious life and priesthood, reminding them of their personal calling and commitment to serving the community, the church, and God. The ordination took place at the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu, attended by the Augustinian priests and friars, diocesan priests, parents, families, friends of the ordinands, religious sisters, as well as pilgrims and devotees of Sto. Niño
During the event, a devotee approached one of the novices, inquiring about the number of ordinations and the place of origins of the deacons. She joyfully pledged to continue praying for perseverance and an abundance of vocations. It is truly uplifting to acknowledge that behind every priest, deacon, or seminarian, there exist individuals who fervently and selflessly pray for them.
We extend our warmest congratulations and prayers to the newly-ordained deacons: Rev. Jeremy Jonas R. Alcaria, OSA; Rev. Ronel M. Bayon-on, OSA; Rev. Nemie Boy R. Cataluna, OSA; Rev. Glenn A. Macorol, OSA; Rev. King V. Nepangue, OSA; Rev. CSN S. Pomoy, OSA; and Rev. Harvey Kent S. Solatorio, OSA. The novices are profoundly thankful for this heartening experience, which encourages reflection and prayer on the precious gift of vocations and the benevolence of God in sending new laborers to tend to His vineyard.
ANPH Hosted the Paskong Agustino 2024:
A Heartwarming Celebration of Faith and Unity
December 4, 2024 – The annual gathering for the Central Visayas and Mindanao zone of Augustinian communities of the Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu took place at the Augustinian Novitiate and Prayer House in Lower Mohon, Talisay City, Cebu. This event brought the friars, their families, and lay affiliates from Augustinian communities together across the region to celebrate the joy and hope of Christmas with unity and reflection.
The celebration began with a solemn Eucharistic Mass at the Sanctuary of St. Rita, Sto. Niño Monastery. Rev. Fr. Danilo Carido, OSA, the zonal coordinator for the Central Visayas and Mindanao, presided over the Mass. He was joined by Very Rev. Andrew Batayola, OSA, the Prior Provincial; Rev. Fr. Elias Jerome Mesina, OSA, the Prior of the Asia-Pacific Augustinian Novitiate, along with other superiors and friars of each Augustinian community.
Following the Mass, attendees were treated to light refreshments and fellowship before a meaningful Christmas reflection led by Rev. Fr. Williener Jack Luna, OSA. Fr. Luna shared a heartfelt message centered on the theme: “A Christmas of Love and Hope within the Augustinian Community: Living the Augustinian Spirituality and Values.” His reflection emphasized the importance of nurturing love and hope within the community, especially through the lens of the Augustinian spirituality that binds the friars together in service and commitment.
Before the festive lunch, Fr. Batayola delivered a Christmas message. His words highlighted the core elements of Augustinian spirituality: interiority, community life, and service to the Church. He reminded everyone of the importance of living these values, particularly during the Christmas season when the message of love and selflessness is most profoundly felt.
The event culminated with a joyful lunch, where attendees shared a meal in fellowship. In the spirit of giving, gifts were exchanged among the friars and their affiliates, a symbol of the love and generosity that is at the heart of the Augustinian community.
Paskong Agustino 2024 was a beautiful reminder of the importance of unity, faith, hope and love within the Augustinian family, fostering a profound sense of connection among the friars and their loved ones as they celebrate the season of Christ’s birth.
Novices Deepen Their Spiritual journey through Recollections
The novices consistently attended their monthly recollections from October to December, aiming to deepen their understanding of themselves, Augustinian values, and, above all, God. These gatherings were essential for their formation as Augustinians.
On October 19, 2024, Rev. Fr. Benedict Soliman, OSA, led a recollection themed “Augustine on Wisdom.” He argued that for Augustine, wisdom is a journey toward the Truth—Christ Himself—who is the focal point of humanity’s restless search for knowledge and the praise of God, the incarnate Wisdom. He referenced De Beata Vita, stating, “One is truly chaste who keeps God in mind and devotes himself alone” (III.18). Thus, individuals should seek wisdom with pure intentions, as this pursuit leads to the fulfillment of the soul—the happy Life found in communion with God.
On November 8, 2024, Very Rev. Fr. Andrew P. Batayola, OSA, prior provincial of the Sto Niño de Cebu province, guided an engaging recollection on “Augustine on Interiority.” He explained that, for Augustine, interiority involves moving from the outward self to the inward self, fostering a connection with one’s true self and God through prayer, silence, and contemplation. He emphasized that this interior journey should not remain stagnant but should be expressed outwardly through conversion, fostering a renewed perspective on holiness and improving relationships within the community and every person he encounters.
On December 12, 2024, Rev. Fr. Mark Domasian, OSA, focused on “Augustine on Friendship.” He explored Augustine’s understanding of friendship as a bond inspired by the Holy Spirit, characterized by love, trust, truth rooted in faith in God, and the necessity of prayer.
These monthly recollections centered on Augustinian spirituality aid novices in grasping the essence of living as true Augustinians and embracing the charism that must be personally developed. The novices are deeply grateful for the unwavering dedication and inspiring passion of the Augustinian friars;, Very Rev. Fr. Andrew Batayola, Fr. Benedict Soliman and Fr. Mark Domasian who facilitated their monthly Recollections.
Featuring: Augustinian Saints and Reflections
The Youngest Monks of Gafsa
As Catholics, we may not know the exact number of martyrs, but as Augustinians and novices, it is essential to know our patron saints. Let me share a brief insight into St. Maximus, the patron saint of novices. He was one of the seven martyred monks who lived in a monastery near Gafsa, now Tunisia, North Africa. They are St. Liberatus the Abbot, St. Boniface the deacon, Sts. Servus and Rusticus the sub-deacons, and lay monks Sts. Rogatus, Septimus, and Maximus, the youngest who remained faithful to their beliefs until death.
These first Augustinian martyrs faced persecution under the Vandal King Hunneric in 484 AD, 34 years after the death of our holy father, St. Augustine. The king ordered the closure of all Christian monasteries and consigned the monks and nuns to the Moors. They were taken to Carthage and imprisoned, where they were offered vain promises, fleeting honors, and seductive flattery. Yet, these faithful servants of God steadfastly rejected these temptations, remaining true to their belief in the Trinity and in one Baptism.
Maximus, only 15 years old, was taunted by the guards: “You are just a child; why hurry to die? Take our advice, save your life, and seek a position in the palace of our great king.” Despite his youth, his love for God and his fellow monks was profound. He refused their offer, choosing to share the same fate as the others.
Members of local churches, having bribed the guards, visited the martyrs day and night to receive instruction and encouragement to endure their suffering for Christ. Upon learning of this, the king ordered stricter confinement, heavier chains, and unprecedented cruelty. Soon after, he condemned them to be placed on an old ship and burned alive at the sea. The martyrs walked cheerfully to the shore, dismissing the insults they encountered along the way.
PRAYER FOR NOVICES
Holy Brother Maximus, the Youngest of the monks of Gafsa, Courageous soldier of Christ, and zealous defender of Catholic Faith, I choose you in the presence of our Almighty God, Our holy father Augustine, and the entire heavenly court; as my patron, protector of my vocation, and custodian of my novitiate life.O blessed Martyr and most dear patron of novices, appointed by the beautiful and splendor divine to be my model and protector, receive me as your friend and by your holy intercession defend me from all dangers of body and soul. Help me this day in the manner pleasing to God, assist me in my difficulties and obtain for me the grace, that I may become a true Augustinian, and one day I may enjoy eternal happiness in heaven with you. Amen.
St. John of Sahagun: A Preacher of truth,
advocate of social justice and lover of the Most blessed Sacrament.
Nov. Ronaldo Ardiente
Our Order honors another Augustinian, a tireless preacher, a peacemaker, and an advocate of social harmony, a defender of workers’ rights, and a true devotee of the Most Blessed Sacrament. He is John of Sahagun, Spain, whose memorial is celebrated every 12th of June. The readings of his memory show us how Saint John lived a life worthy of our admiration and the promise of eternal happiness.
Allow me to give you a little background of this holy man. He is baptized as John Gonzales, of a well-to-do family of Sahagun de Campos, Spain, born in 1430. He studied under the Benedictines. Ordained priest by the bishop of Burgos and held office of chaplain at the Church of Saint Gadea. When his bishop died in 1456, he resigned as a chaplain and moved to Salamanca and taught and continue his priestly ministry at the University, College of Saint Bartholomew. On June 18, 1463, John renounced all his offices in order to join the Augustinian Order in Salamanca. The following year, on August 28, 1464 he made his first profession and thereafter continued his preaching ministry while exercising various responsibilities in the order as a prior and delegate to various provincial chapters.
Aside from his love of the Eucharist, that his mass took too long, as it was accompanied by visions as well as conversing with Jesus. This holy man shows that as an Augustinian we are not only to pray but to share the works of contemplation by our words and actions.
In words —God has given him gifts of delivering a good, clear, sincere and eloquent homilies, people would say “we are going to hear our favorite preacher” as a result, he attracted many people to attend and listen to him especially during homilies. Because of his being renowned in the city he also became a principal agent of reconciliation between rival groups for those who sought his help and counsel. The first reading for his day of memorial taken from the letter of Saint James Chapter 2, verses one to nine talks about partiality. In short, putting distinctions among people and treated them differently. James elucidated; “If a man with gold rings on his fingers and in fine clothes comes into your assembly and a poor person in shabby clothes also comes in and you pay attention to the one wearing fine clothes and say, ‘sit here, please,’ while you say to the poor one ‘stand there or sit at my feet,’ have you not made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?” Without partiality, regardless of economic state, John treated them fairly as a brothers to his brother.
In Words —Saint John preaches the truth of the Gospel tirelessly, he’s never afraid to criticize and denounce the sins even to the rich and known in the society in order to defend the rights of the workers and common folk. John of Seville wrote that this man has a “natural impulse to help everyone.” It is evident that for Saint John there is no partiality in telling the truth. In pointing out their sins, he doesn’t care even if it offends the rich or powerful person in the society. He taught us that, in searching the truth we have fight for it. That social justice and harmony is built in truth and not of flattery and fear.
In actions—When some time, John was summoned by the Duke of Alba to his residence, the duke said, “It looks as though you do not know how to bridle your tongue, Father.” The saint answered “For what purpose do I ascend to the pulpit sir? To proclaim the truth to my hearers, or to wheedle them by base flattery? It is becoming for your grace to know that a preacher must be prepared in his soul to speak the truth to my hearers, both in denouncing and correcting shortcomings and in praising virtue to such a point that he is willing in that cause even to face death.”
In the face of opposition and personal risk, Saint John exemplified the beatitudes by embodying mercy for those who are oppressed, and enduring persecution for righteousness’ sake. His actions mirrored Jesus’ call to love our neighbor as our self, to seek justice, and to stand firm in faith. Jesus in his Sermon on the Mount, proclaimed, “Blessed are the merciful for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called Son of God. Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” John died at the age of 49 on June 11, 1479 and beautified on 1601 and canonized in 1691 by Pope Innocent XII. It was thought by his contemporaries that he had actually been poisoned in retaliation for his condemnation of the immoral lifestyle of public figures he strongly opposed and criticized. His remains are venerated in the Cathedral of Salamanca, where he is honored both in the city and the diocese as patron.
As we contemplate Saint John’s life, we hope to emulate his example. We may be merciful in our interactions by continuously seeking reconciliation and understanding. We may be peacemakers in a world filled with discord by striving to build bridges and sow harmony. And we may be courageous in upholding righteousness, even when it requires sacrifice and facing opposition.
May Saint John’s legacy remind us of the boundless love of God and the transformative power of living out the Gospel message, in words and actions, in our daily lives. Let us heed the call to be instruments of God’s peace, mercy, and justice, following in the footsteps of Saint John and the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Saint Thomas of Villanova: An Epitome of a Balance Life of Intellectual and Practical Deeds
Nov. John Rey P. Laureano
As Christians, the followers of Christ, beatitude is our common goal while dwelling in this world. The scripture teaches us to “Be holy, for I, the Lord your God, am holy” (Lev. 19.2.NABRE). Achieving holiness is not a very easy undertaking but there is a necessity of going through the eye of the needle. In plain terms, there are hardships and suffering when we decide to become holy. There are demands and sacrifices to undergo. This is the path where our saints underwent to attain the holiness, the holy dwelling of God.
This holiness can only be granted by God as He is the only Holy One. The Lord is not forcing us to obey Him but he gives us freedom rather than to control us. So, to attain the holiness which God pours upon us, there is a need of participation to His will, to His holy plan,and His commandment.
Every saint is prominent in their own way of obtaining holiness. They participate in the will of God by following His laws, precepts, and commandments. One necessary thing is their love and relationship to the Church. They did not only follow God’s commandment but recognized the Church as the guide on following Him. Their way of living is in concord with the Church’s teachings.
One of those saints is Saint Thomas of Villanova. For us Augustinians, he is known as the patron of our studies. He is one of the proponents of Augustinian studies in our order. This is apparent in his life as a student. At his early age, he acquired and learned general knowledge and latin language from the Franciscans in Villanova. When he deigned to become a priest, he made his studies in Alcala to take a degree of master and professor. Doing his studies in Alcala, he had to become devoted to logic, physics, and metaphysics. After graduating, he became a professor in his alma mater (in Alcala). He taught logic, philosophy, and metaphysics which his young students were very fascinated by his lectures for he expressed his thoughts and ideas clearly. We can see in his life how he was dedicated in his studies becoming a student, a teacher, and a priest. Before he decided to become an Augustinian, he first studied carefully the rule and constitution of the diverse Orders. The monastic and strict observances of Auguustinian charism made him enter the Augustinian order. He asserts “As long as I am abandoning the world and giving up a very promising career, then let me choose a life of real self-sacrifice.” He saw this in an Augustinian way of life.
He is not only renowned in the field of intelligence but in his good deeds as well with the inspiration of his family to him. There is one instance of his mother having “established a hospital in which the poor and elderly found a home.” Thomas observed this already even in his young age. When he was the only one left in their home, he saw beggars appear in their farmyard with no food. So he decided to give them six chickens with the hen running in the backyard.
Noticing the life of St. Thomas of Villanova shows the impact of the necessity of learning and manifesting it to the anterior reality. Thomas of Villanova teaches us to be courageous and dedicated to learning for our brethren. Since we have this rationality, it should be used for its purpose-to judge, to think, to know, and to contemplate. Let us emulate Thomas of Villanova in using intelligence and his compassionate heart in attaining beatitude.
Intelligent and a generous person, he is very renowned in these descriptions. One thing I found out, he is also a man of silence and humility. During his novitiate and he was older than his co-novices, he became an evisage of an ideal novice. He practiced prayer and silence to listen to the word of the Lord.He continued to study the rule and constitution as the typical novice. He also practiced humility through subjecting himself to the community without complaint even though he was older and a highly educated master. He still became obedient.
Thus, let us imitate Saint Thomas of Villanova’s life in attaining our common end as Christians which is the holiness. We have to be courageous and dedicated to learn many things, especially the knowledge of God and the way of following Him; and importantly our Christian identity, with silence. Learning is not only just knowing or for the sake of knowledge but a fruit of our contemplation. Learning is not only stagnant in a theoretical aspect of man but it has to be extended to our brothers and sisters through teaching them and applying it in our good deeds. This is our way of life as Augustinians to know God in our studies and in our contemplation, then it should be manifested in our actions. Through this, we can fulfill the will of God to obtain his gift and grace of holiness.
As a novice undergoing a formation, it is a time for silence and prayer. We have to take this opportunity to hear the Lord’s words for us to grow and to develop our identity as an aspiring Augustinian, a Christian, and an individual. Hearing and learning the Lord’s utterance should be taken as an opportunity to practice in our community with our brothers and sisters. When we return to our respective communities, we will be able to exhibit the fruit of our contemplation, our silence, and our prayer.
Captured Moments
SECOND EDITION
JOURNEYING...
Memories...
"IT IS NOT THE HABIT THAT MAKES A MAN HOLY, BUT A LIFE IN CONFORMITY WITH HIS HABIT"
-JORDAN OF SAXONY, OSA
JUNE-JULY-AUGUST-SEPTEMBER
TONY MEETS THE NOVICES
AGUSTINOLYMPICS
FEATURING:
NOV. RONALD & RUFO
THE EIGHT NOVICES EMBARK ON JOURNEY
THE SOLEMNITY OF OUR HOLY FATHER SAINT AUGUSTINE
ANPH COMMUNITY JOINS PROVINCIALATE COMMUNITY'S VESPERS ON THE FEAST OF ST. MONICA
NEW PARISH PRIEST INSTALLED
RECOLLECTIONS
VOLUME VI NO.1
Eight Novices Embark on Journey
On July 7, 2024, eight novices officially began their year-long novitiate formation at the Augustinian Novitiate and Prayer House in Mohon, Talisay City, Cebu. The investiture of the Augustinian habit was held during morning prayer (Lauds) at the oratory. This event also marked the installation of Rev. Fr. Elias Jerome P. Mesina, OSA, as house prior of the new APAN community friars, signifying a fresh start for all.
The ceremony, brimming with hope and anticipation, was presided over by Very Rev. Fr. Andrew P. Batayola, OSA, Provincial Prior of the Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu-Philippines. He was joined by Fr. Nestor B. Bandalan Jr., OSA Provincial Secretary, and Fr. Albert Benedict B. Soliman, OSA Provincial Liturgist. Fr. Mesina who is also part of the formation team, addressed the novices, urging them to remain steadfast in their commitment to Augustinian religious life.
The eight novices represent a diverse range of provinces: four from the Province of Santo Niño de Cebu-Philippines, three from the Province of the Most Holy Name of Jesus-Philippines, and one from the Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel-Australia. Their formation is guided by Fr. Dipi Katthathara, OSA (Novice Master, Vicariate of Our Lady of Grace), assisted by Fr. Jasper V. Valmores, OSA of the Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu-Philippines.
Tony Meets the Novices
The ANPH Community welcomed Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Banks, OSA, Assistant General of the Order of Saint Augustine. His three-day visit–on the 24th to 26th of July–was not only a chance to meet the new novices, but also an opportunity to share valuable insights about novitiate life and address concerns within the Church.
Fr. Tony engaged the novices in discussions about the transformative experience of novitiate life. He underscored the importance of the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Delving into the ultimate purpose of each vow, he emphasized how the order shaped the spiritual journey and communal life of every member. Especially the protection of vulnerable individuals, he highlighted the importance of creating a safe and nurturing environment within the religious community and the Church. Protecting the dignity of every person is paramount in the life of the Church. The session was engaging and reflective, encouraging novices to reflect on their personal commitment to these vows.
The visit of Fr. Tony served not only as an important milestone for the novices but also as a powerful reminder of the Order of Saint Augustine’s commitment to fostering growth and safeguarding the dignity of every individual. As the new canonical year unfolds, the novices geared up to embrace their calling with a deepened understanding of their responsibilities and a strong sense of community.
ANPH AgustinOlympics
In preparation for the feast of St. Monica and the solemnity of our Holy Father St. Augustine, the ANPH Community organized a vibrant three-day event, the AgustinOlympics, from the 22nd to 24th of August, each day from 3:00 to 5:00 PM. This gathering aimed to foster camaraderie among friars, novices, and seminary workers through a variety of fun-filled games and sports. The festivities kicked off on the first day with a ceremonial lighting of the Olympic cauldron, performed by dedicated Novitiate Staff, Kuya Tisoy and Ate Emma, at the basketball court. Their symbolic act ignited the spirit of the Olympics and set the tone for a day of celebration.
Following this inspiring moment, Rev. Fr. Elias Jerome P. Mesina, OSA, the House Prior, delivered a heartfelt welcome remarks to officially start the event. His words encouraged participation and highlighted the importance of unity and friendship within the community.
The day and the rest of the days continued with an energetic Zumba warm-up, which had everyone dancing and laughing, creating an atmosphere filled with enthusiasm and joy. Participants then engaged in a series of games and sports that transformed the basketball court and multipurpose hall into a lively zone, filled with laughter and cheers. The sense of community was palpable as everyone came together to compete in good spirits, forging bonds and memories.
The awarding of the winners for each game and sport took place on the 27th during the community celebration of the feast of St. Monica, held in the community refectory. Everyone shared in a simple yet delicious boodle fight lunch, prepared by the workers and novices, fostering a spirit of fellowship. The AgustinOlympics not only honored the Augustinian legacy but also strengthened the bonds among friars, novices, and seminary workers, reinforcing the values of friendship, teamwork, and joy within the ANPH community.
ANPH Community Joins Provincialate Community's Vespers
on the Feast of St. Monica
On August 27, 2024, the community of Augustinian Novitiate and Prayer House (ANPH) joined the Provincialate Community on the occasion of the feast of St. Monica, mother of St. Augustine. The event started at 6:00 in the evening with a vespers held in Aula Magna of the Sto. Niňo Pilgrim Center.
Also present during the event were the different Augustinian Families within Cebu; representatives of Order of Augustinian Discalced, Augustinian Sisters of Divine Love, Augustinian Recollect Sisters, Augustinian Sisters of our Lady of Consolation, Sisters of our Lady of Sorrows Servants of Mary of Pisa, and the staff of the Provincialate community.
Everyone enjoyed the night with a delightful dinner while each community sang their choice of song. The novices also performed a short interpretative dance. It eloquently depicted Augustine’s struggle with worldly allurements, his eventual turning towards God, and the transformative power of a mother’s persistent intercession.
This joyful fellowship and shared celebration transcended the boundaries of a single community, becoming a vibrant tapestry woven from the diverse threads of Augustinian family in Cebu that mirrors the communal life at the heart of Augustinian spirituality,
The Solemnity of Our Holy Father Saint Augustine
On August 28, 2024, the solemnity of our Holy Father Saint Augustine, the friars and novices of the Augustinian Novitiate and Prayer House Community participated in the annual joint celebration of the Augustinian Communities in Cebu at the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu. The mass was presided over by the Prior Provincial of the Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu, Very Rev. Fr. Andrew P. Batayola, OSA, under the theme, “Saint Augustine: Lover of the Spiritual Life.”
In his homily, Fr. Batayola emphasized the essential elements of Augustinian life, highlighting non-negotiable acts such as prayer, the Eucharist, and communal meals. He noted that these practices are vital for spiritual growth. To achieve personal and communal holiness, he underscored the importance of prayer in community life, stating, “Common life without common prayer could not be common life,” ( Constitution V.86) which reinforced the necessity of shared spiritual practices. He also addressed the significance of devotional practices, describing them as essential means to nurture one’s spiritual life, provided they adhere to the norms of the Church and the traditions of the Augustinian Order.
Furthermore, Fr. Batayola challenged the community, as servants of the Church, to reflect on how they are responding to the call to perform both corporal and spiritual works of mercy. He asserted, “A spiritual person is seen not only in the prayer rooms or places of worship but also seen in the ground, in the peripheries, doing the work of evangelist, fulfilling their ministry, or laying down their life for the sheep.” He encouraged everyone to attend to the needs of the homeless, the hungry, the vulnerable, and the strangers, stating that these acts are integral to nurturing and advancing our spiritual lives and holiness. He concluded by reminding the community that not only do our brothers and sisters in the community and the Church help us grow spiritually, but also those who are marginalized and neglected in society. Engaging with these individuals can transform us into more compassionate human beings and spiritual beings, following the example of Saint Augustine.
Following the mass, the community gathered for a festive lunch at the Basilica Convent. This gathering provided an opportunity for novices to meet some Augustinian friars. It was a chance for fellowship, sharing experiences, and deepening bonds within the Augustinian family, reinforcing the communal aspect of their spiritual journey. The celebration not only honored Saint Augustine but also served as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to live out his teachings in everyday life.
New Mohon Parish Priest Installed
The Sto. Niño de Cebu Parish in Lower Mohon, City of Talisay, celebrated a significant milestone on September 3, 2024, with the installation of Rev. Fr. Roy D. Aspera, OSA, as its new parish priest. The ceremony was presided over by the Cebu Archbishop, Most. Rev. Jose S. Palma, D.D. at 10:00 in the morning. The event was attended by the Augustinian Friars of the Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu, several Diocesan priests, and local parishioners and devotees.
During his homily, Archbishop Palma emphasized the importance of unity and service within the Church. He encouraged the congregation by stating that each of us can provide our part and share to contribute to the growth of our parish community. His message resonated with the attendees, highlighting the role of every individual in fostering a supportive and active parish community.
The installation of Fr. Aspera marks an important chapter for the Sto. Niño de Cebu Parish, uniquely administered by the Order of Saint Augustine of the Province of Sto. Niño de Cebu-Philippines. Fr. Aspera’s commitment to serving the community inspires both the local parishioners and the novices present at the event. Their involvement in such a significant event reflects the ongoing commitment of the Order to serve whenever and whatever Church needs us.
Novices Deepen Their Spiritual Journey Through Recollections
The Augustinian novices have embarked on a transformative spiritual journey, participating in two significant recollections focused on the themes of freedom and love. These events, held under the guidance of esteemed recollection masters, were pivotal in shaping their understanding of Augustine’s teachings.
On August 13, 2024, the novices gathered with Rev. Fr. Dipi, their novice master, for their first recollection since entering the novitiate. Led by Fr. Anacleto Morales III, OSA, the session centered on the theme “Augustine on Freedom.” Fr. Morales elucidated the concepts of freedom, free will, and grace, offering the novices a profound comprehension of Augustine’s philosophy.
Rev. Fr. Morales explained that, according to Augustine, true freedom is the ability to choose what is good. He distinguished between free will, which is essential for exercising freedom, and the corrupted state of human will due to sin, which necessitates divine grace for achieving genuine freedom. The session concluded with the sacrament of Confession, allowing the novices to reflect on their spiritual growth and seek reconciliation.
Building on the insights gained in August, the novices reconvened on September 16, 2024, for a recollection led by Fr. Keith Lawrence Ermac, OSA, focusing on the theme “Augustine on Love.” Rev. Fr. Ermac emphasized the vital role of love in daily life, drawing from Augustine’s exploration of this fundamental virtue.
During the session, Fr. Ermac highlighted that love is the driving force of the soul and essential for life. He introduced the four objects of love that individuals should aspire to: God, our neighbors, ourselves, and our bodies. The primacy of loving God was underscored, as this love naturally extends to the love of our neighbors, demonstrating that love must be realized through action.
These recollections have provided the novices with invaluable insights into Augustinian values, deepening their understanding of freedom and love as essential components of their spiritual formation. As they reflect on these teachings, the novices are better equipped to embody the principles of their faith in their daily lives and future ministry.
The Order has been supporting these young men on their path to becoming dedicated servants of God, fostering an environment of growth, reflection, and spiritual enrichment especially in the doctrine of our spiritual founder and guide.
FEATURING:
1. Nov. John Rufo Almariego
2. Nov. Ronaldo Ardiente
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