First Joint Gathering of Elderly Friars in the Philippines

From February 3 to 7, 2025, the serene grounds of Our Lady of the Angels Seminary in Novaliches, Quezon City served as the epicenter of fraternity and renewal. Franciscan friars from the Province of San Pedro Bautista (Luzon) and the Province of San Antonio de Padua (Visayas and Mindanao) gathered for a landmark event: the inaugural Joint Accompaniment Program for Senior and Elderly Friars. This gathering embraced the theme “Franciscan We Are, Gracious and Grateful,” and was animated by the On-Going Formation teams of both Entities. Events of this five-day encounter revolved around checking up on each other and sharing of memories from formation and mission experiences. Participants received inputs on elderly nurturance and community together with inspiring conversations with young friars and aspirants.

On the Provincial Celebration of the Feast of San Pedro Bautista last February 5, the participants received a tribute program as way of thanking and recognizing their years of service to the Church and fraternity. 

The First Joint Accompaniment Program for Senior and Elderly Friars concluded with a mass and a simple dinner program in Santuario de San Antonio Parish in Makati City. 

This pioneering joint accompaniment program stood as a testament to the Franciscan spirit of brotherhood, gratitude, and grace. It provided a space for senior friars to reconnect, rejuvenate, and celebrate their lifelong vocation in an atmosphere of joy and mutual support. As the echoes of shared laughter and prayer lingered, the gathering left an enduring legacy of unity, love, and renewal for the Franciscan family in the Philippines.

Makki Cruz, OFM