TDM celebrates Golden Jubilee: A Journey of Faith, Service and Commitment

On September 15, 2024, the Teresian Daughters of Mary (TDM) joyfully celebrates their Golden Jubilee, marking 50 years of steadfast commitment to faith, service, and the Church. Founded by the late Archbishop Antonio Lloren Mabutas on September 15, 1974, the Institute has grown from its humble beginnings into a vibrant community dedicated to the service of Christ and the Church.

A Heritage of Faith

The journey of the Teresian Daughters of Mary began in March 1974, when a dedicated group of women, inspired by the spirit of St. Teresa of Avila, sought to establish a new religious community. Under the guidance of Archbishop Mabutas, who recognized the unique pastoral needs of the local Church in Davao and neighboring dioceses, the group embarked on a mission to form a community that would embody the evangelical counsels and serve the local Church.

Foundational Milestones

In the early years, the pioneering Sisters, including Cecilia Palomo, Lina Salinas, Ignacia Papna, Bernadette Roldan, and Gaudiosa Racho, along with Concesa Penaso, Lourdes Paclibar and Luz Liza began their service at Mount Apo Hospital and later moved to another residence before settling into their permanent convent in Matina, Davao City, in August 1976.

The Institute celebrated significant milestones with the blessing of the Central House on September 15, 1984, marking a decade of service, and the addition of a new annex building on September 15, 1999, during the silver jubilee. Further developments included the blessing of a beautiful Chapel on May 28, 2015, and a multipurpose building on April 22, 2021, which continue to support their mission and outreach.

Formation was integral to the early development of the sisters. With the support of the Religious of the Virgin Mary and the Maryknoll Sisters, the pioneering sisters underwent thorough formation, leading to their initial professions and the establishment of their foundational Constitutions. These were further refined and approved, culminating in the Institute being granted diocesan right by the Holy See in 1984.

A Devoted Path

The Blessed Virgin Mary, under the title of Our Lady of Sorrows, remains the principal patroness of the Institute. The sisters strive to emulate her virtues and find inspiration in her steadfastness and compassion. St. Teresa of Avila’s teachings continue to guide their journey, reflected in their motto, “God alone suffices,” which underscores their deep trust in God’s providence.

The pastoral seal of the Founder, Archbishop Mabutas, “Sentire Cum Ecclesia: To Think, To Feel, and To Be of the Same Mind with the Church,” is embodied in the diverse apostolate of the Sisters. Inspired by this vision, the sisters commit themselves entirely to Jesus Christ through the evangelical counsels, live a life marked by Christian charity, engage in constant prayer, and dedicate themselves to the service of the Church.

Honoring the Founder

Archbishop Antonio Lloren Mabutas, the Founder of the Teresian Daughters of Mary, was a visionary leader whose impact on the Church and the Institute endures. Born on June 13, 1921, in Agoo, La Union, Archbishop Mabutas had a distinguished ecclesiastical career before establishing the TDM. His dedication to education, pastoral care, and social action is honored through the Archbishop Antonio Lloren Mabutas Memorabilia, which preserves his legacy and contributions.

A Golden Jubilee of Service

As the Teresian Daughters of Mary celebrate their 50th anniversary, their mission continues to thrive. The Institute is currently composed of 43 perpetually professed sisters, three temporary professed sisters, five novices, and three postulants. They actively serve in the Archdiocese of Davao, Diocese of Digos, Diocese of Tagum, and Diocese of Mati, administering nine Catholic schools and engaging in various special ministries.

Their apostolates have ranged from education and social action to pastoral care, reflecting their commitment to addressing the diverse needs of the communities they serve. The Institute’s missionary work includes significant contributions to education through the administration of mostly (arch)diocesan schools, involvement in social action, and support for various diocesan ministries.

Looking Forward

The Golden Jubilee is a moment of reflection and celebration for the Teresian Daughters of Mary. It marks not only their past achievements but also their continued dedication to living out their charism and mission. The sisters remain steadfast in their commitment to follow Jesus Christ more closely through the practice of the evangelical counsels and service to the Church.

Collaborating in Mission

The Friends of TDM, established on August 6, 2000, play a crucial role in supporting the Institute’s mission. Inspired by Pope John Paul II’s call for associates to share in the spirituality and prayer life of religious communities, the Friends of TDM help promote vocations and support the Institute’s mission.

As the Teresian Daughters of Mary celebrate this significant milestone, they look forward to continuing their journey of faith, guided by their patroness, Our Lady of Sorrows, and the teachings of St. Teresa of Avila. The Golden Jubilee is both a celebration of their past and a reaffirmation of their commitment to serve with love and dedication in the years to come. (Sr. Vilma Villanueva, TDM)