This afternoon, July 7, 2025, thirty-five young men, together with their families, friends, relatives, and Augustinian friars, gathered at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño de Cebu for their send-off Mass in preparation for their entrance into the seminary.
The Mass was presided over by Very Rev. Fr. Andrew P. Batayola, OSA, Prior Provincial, with Rev. Fr. John Jericho Mier, OSA, serving as the homilist.
During the homily, Fr. Mier, the National Director of Vocations, reminded them that they have chosen to follow Christ in the Augustinian way of life. As they begin their journey of discernment, he encouraged the community to pray for them to Christ, who will guide them on this path.
Reflecting on the Gospel of the woman who touched Jesus’ cloak and the daughter of the official who was healed, Fr. Mier invited the aspirants to consider three essential elements in their vocation journey. First is radical faith, as shown in the Gospel, reminding them that entering the seminary is not merely entering a new place but stepping into a deeper relationship with God, embracing a new way of seeing, thinking, and loving.
Second is the journey of healing, for formation is not just about acquiring knowledge but allowing the Lord to touch the wounds of the past, reminding them that they are not called to perfection but to holiness.
Third is the promise of God’s faithfulness, encouraging the aspirants not to be afraid to respond and, like the woman in the Gospel, to reach out to the Lord with trust.
Fr. Mier also addressed the parents and families, thanking them for their generosity, which forms part of the mission of the Church. To the incoming aspirants, he assured them that their step forward in radical faith will lead them to a journey where Christ will heal their hearts, raise them to new life, and form them into laborers in His vineyard.
After the Mass, dinner was served at the Aula Magna of the Pilgrim Center, followed by the “Pasidungog,” a tradition of the Province where candidates and their parents are recognized for their generous response to God’s call. During the event, some friars shared messages, and the candidates prepared dance and song presentations.
Fr. Danilo Carido, OSA, Prior of the Basilica, welcomed everyone and, in his message, assured the candidates of the friars’ support as they prepare to enter the seminary. “As we send you to the seminary, we also assure you that you have our support and that you are in good hands,” he said. He encouraged them by sharing, “We were also once like you. Don’t worry; sepanx is just normal. As you settle in the seminary, you will definitely enjoy your time there. Seminary life is a very exciting life.”
Fr. Batayola also shared an inspirational message, expressing his great joy that everyone was gathered for this occasion. Quoting the document of the Order in preparation of the General Chapter, he noted that the emergence of new vocations varies across places, with noticeable increases and decreases, reminding everyone that the Order should promote vocations wherever it is present. He acknowledged that while the Province had experienced a decreasing trend in vocations in recent years, the seminary will now be “noisy again” and “alive again” because of the numerous candidates entering.
He also encouraged the aspirants to focus on their studies while also giving attention to the formation of the heart.
Reflecting on the meaning of “Pasidungog,” he explained that its root word “dungog” (or reputation) is associated with being seminarians, reminding them that they carry a good reputation, especially now as disciples of Christ. He affirmed that it is a beautiful honor to be a seminarian but emphasized that this “dungog” is not for the candidates alone. It is also for the parents, who have given the Order, the Church, and society the opportunity to receive the gift of their sons.
Fr. Batayola also recognized the vocation directors, especially Fr. Mier, for their hard work in searching for candidates, affirming that they too deserve this honor. Ultimately, he reminded everyone that the highest “dungog” belongs to the Lord of the Harvest, who calls and sustains each vocation, and he concluded by praying for everyone’s perseverance in the journey of life.
In his closing message, Fr. Mier encouraged everyone to accompany the candidates in this significant stage of their journey as they grow physically, spiritually, and mentally. He expressed the hope that one day, they may joyfully and wonderfully share their lives with others. He also took the opportunity to thank the local vocation directors and the Augustinian Vocation Promoters for their dedicated efforts in guiding and accompanying the candidates.
For more photos, visit Province of Santo Niño de Cebu-Philippines Facebook page.
