Sharing a moment of Grace and Gratitude with the FRIENDS OF REMASE

Inspired and committed individuals, the friends of the St. Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary of Mindanao (REMASE), known as the FRIENDS OF REMASE, came to the seminary in good number last February 21, 2015 to attend the Holy Eucharist, dinner and the short program prepared by the seminary. This annual event is celebrated to thank the generous people who selflessly support the seminary.

“Grant, Almighty God, through the yearly observances of holy lent, that we may grow in understanding of the riches hidden in Christ and by worthy conduct, pursue their effects. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.”

This is the opening prayer of the Holy Mass which was highlighted by the presider, the Archbishop of Davao, the Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, DD. He addressed the assembly with these words: “On the one hand, the seminarians, our future priests, are the ones who will lead the people in their quest to understand the hidden riches in Christ. On the other hand, as THE FRIENDS OF REMASE, you participate in the mission of supporting the seminarians through the financial help you extend to the seminary. The Lord who is pleased with your support must be smiling at you.” This is what the good Archbishop said in his homily.

The Eucharistic Celebration was followed by a simple dinner and a short program. The dinner became a moment of delight which gave the FRIENDS OF REMASE, the priests and the seminarians an avenue to share thoughts over a sumptuous meal prepared by the seminary staff. Our friends were entertained by the seminarians who did not only express gratitude through their talents in singing and dancing but by giving a fresh rose to the friends of REMASE as well. It was our special way of saying thank you for supporting us and loving the church.

Fr. William Cajes, the REMASE assistant procurator, gave an update on the status of the pledges and members of what we would consider in the future a foundation for the seminary. Mr. Art Milan, a member of the Friends of REMASE, made the report on the progress of the plan to make the FRIENDS OF REMASE a foundation. This is to sustain the financial stability of the seminary in order to help the seminarians, our future priests. According to Mr. Ernie Evangelista, another member of the Friends of REMASE and President of the St. John Paul II College, who delivered the inspirational message the seminarians and the priests “are the endangered species and so we must support them so they will increase in terms of number.” He added that “to have a good health and a peaceful family are more than enough. Together with my wife, I am happy with what I am doing; and I believe God is happy too.” The thunderous applause broke out after his message was an affirmation of his very inspiring message.

Indeed, the Holy Eucharist, the simple dinner and the short program were a singular moment of grace and gratitude with our friends, THE FRIENDS OF REMASE. (Sem. Bernie D.P. Edayan)