Four Augustinian friars—Fr. Christian E. Funtanares, OSA; Fr. Jan Mark Placido, OSA; Fr. Anacleto Morales III; and Fr. James Jr. Alibong, OSA—underwent a five-day mission preparation retreat at the Santo Niño Spirituality Center in Tolo-Tolo, Consolacion. The retreat was specifically designed for future missionaries who are set to be sent out in the coming months.

The retreat was facilitated by Fr. Jesus “Jess” Daño, OSA, a seasoned Augustinian missionary who served in Japan for 17 years and is currently assigned to Colegio San Agustin – Bacolod.

Fr. Jess emphasized several key principles that every missionary must internalize before embarking on mission. He reminded the brothers that being a missionary requires a heart—“a heart that beats for mission.” This includes a heart that is compassionate, like Jesus, who was moved by the sight of people in need of God’s love and mercy; a heart that is prayerful; a heart that values fraternal or community life; and a heart committed to the apostolate.

He also reminded them that the apostolate is an integral part of religious community life, and it must never contradict or become a burden to community living. Quoting the Very Rev. Fr. Alejandro Moral Antón, OSA, Prior General of the Order, he said, “Apostolate and mission are born of a strong community and spiritual life.”

Fr. Jess placed strong emphasis on the role of prayer in missionary life. He explained that prayer is essential because it precedes mission, and mission itself is the fruit of a deep, prayerful life. Prayer—especially participation in the Eucharist—is the source of strength for every missionary. A missionary must rely on both prayer and the Eucharist to be an effective servant in their assigned apostolate.

The retreat concluded today, July 4, 2025.