COUNTING GOD'S BLESSINGS...

The 102nd Anniversary of the Foundation of the Pious Disciples of the Divine Master (PDDM) was celebrated in the Philippine-Taiwan-Hong Kong Province with much grace and blessings. It was highlighted by milestone events—the Culmination of the Congregation’s Council of the Institute, the 25th Jubilee of Profession of Vows of two sisters, and the Renewal of two temporary professed sisters.

In the Philippines, the solemn Eucharistic Celebration, held at the Divine Master Chapel in Antipolo at 10:00 a.m., was presided over by Most. Rev. Ruperto Santos, D.D., Bishop of the Diocese of Antipolo.

The members of the Council of the Institute, who represented the different PDDM circumscriptions, delegations, and dependent houses all over the world, were joined by other sisters, members of the Pauline Family, and lay faithful in giving thanks to God for His faithful and active presence during the days of their meetings.

The silver jubilarians—Sr. M. Criselda Lagnason and Sr. M. Abigail Monteverde also echoed their faithful assent to God’s love as they renewed their commitment on the 25th year of their religious profession of Vows. Their families and friends were also present at the celebration.

In his homily, Bishop Santos shared his profound reflections in the light of the Gospel of Mark (7:1–13). He said, this Gospel account is an invitation to let God’s word shape our lives from within, and allow our consecration to be more than visible signs— to be a living flame. He also invited us, especially the participants of the Council of the Institute, to carry with us three gifts—three movements of the heart that flow from this Gospel and from your own charism: piety, prayers, and purpose. PIETY, he referred to a Heart aligned with the Master; PRAYERS — a Heart that intercedes with authentic love; and PURPOSE — a Heart rooted in God’s command, not human custom.

The celebration concluded with a fellowship meal as well as the opening of gifts and expressions of felicitation.

 

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In Hong Kong, two temporary professed sisters renewed their Vows at the Church of the Annunciation in Tsuen Wan, New Territories. Rev. Fr. Giorgio Pasini, PIME, presided over the Eucharistic Celebration at 8:00 a.m. Sr. M. Liying Bian made her 4th renewal while Sr. M. Liyan Xu had her 5th. Their renewed commitment was received by Sr. M. Victoria Victorino, the local superior in Hong Kong. Guests, especially the members of the Association of Pauline Cooperators, were also present. After the Mass, they continued their celebration of thanksgiving at the sisters’ residence with the Pauline Cooperators.

  

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On February 9, 2026, God has also manifested His goodness and love through the renewal of Vows of Sr. M. Dianne Therese Galapate and Sr. M. Carolette Maestrado at the Divine Master Convent in Antipolo City.

Within the Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Rev. Msgr. Giuseppe Trentadue, Counsellor at the Apostolic Nunciature, the two temporarily professed sisters renewed their commitment as disciples of Jesus Master. Rev. Fr. Melchor Bernal, SVD, who guided the two sisters during their retreat, was also present.

In his homily, Msgr. Trentadue highlighted three significant points that every consecrated person must value. In light of the day’s readings, he declared that God’s temple is a testament of God’s faithfulness; every person may cultivate a deeper sense of God’s holiness by putting Him first in their lives; and the religious habit symbolizes God’s protection and salvation.

King Solomon’s dedication to building the temple shows his deep reverence for God. However, after this achievement, he succumbed to temptation and betrayal. Despite this, God remains faithful. Solomon's experience encourages us to seek God's grace to stay true to our vocations and missions, regardless of our successes and achievements.

In today’s first reading, we see that after the priests placed the Ark of the Covenant in the temple, they left because “the Lord’s glory had filled the temple.” This reminds us to prioritize God in our lives, missions, and communities. While we may succeed in our ministries, it’s essential to remember that God is at the center of our efforts. We can make plans, but it is ultimately God’s plan that prevails. Let us seek the grace to be open to His guidance and to embrace His divine plans for our congregation and mission.

The gospel recounts how Jesus traveled through villages, where people begged to touch the tassel of his cloak for healing. This underscores the significance of the cloak, which can both protect and conceal. Our religious habit symbolizes protection, but can also hide negativity. We pray that our presence as religious persons acts as a cloak, offering protection and salvation to our community and those we meet.

After the Mass, the sister-renewalists were greeted with felicitations. They also expressed their gratitude to all, especially those who have been part of their journey.

 

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