First Annual Christmas Fellowship

Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year. It is the time when the Son of God, Jesus Christ, chose to be born and be nurtured by His humble human parents, Joseph and Mary.

The first ever annual Christmas fellowship of the theology seminarians of the Archdiocese of Davao, together with their families, and their Vocation Director, Fr. Ronald Arcillas, at Saint Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary of Mindanao last December 23, 2023 fits perfectly to meaning of the season.

The event commenced with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided over by Rev. Fr. Marbendear Morallas and was concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Ronald Arcillas.

In his homily, Fr. Morallas emphasized the value of love and forgiveness within the family as the fitting avenue for vocation to truly grow and thrive. He added, “seminarians do not leave their families behind when they become priests but rather entrust their families to the loving care and providence of our Almighty God.”

After the mass, a short sharing exclusive among the parents of the seminarians was held at the seminary gazebo facilitated by Fr. Arcillas. Fellowship lunch followed where each family brought food to share for the whole group.

Clamorous laughter and light-hearted smile filled the seminary refectory as the seminarians showcased their talents during a short program. Fr. Arcillas also facilitated few fun-filled parlor games joined by family members and seminarians which added color to the occasion. Before they parted ways, seminarians gave a small token of appreciation to their parents.

The gathering served as a light bonding and “kumustahan” among seminarians and their families, the seedbed of vocation. It also reminds us that God hallowed the “human family” when He chose to be born in the likeness of man. Thus, making it a perfect place to sow the seed of vocation. (Sem. Perry Neil G. Patayon)