The Augustinian Youth Gathering (AYG) 2026 officially opened with a Eucharistic Celebration held at the Divino Amore Academy Campus on March 14, 2026, bringing together youth delegates from various Augustinian communities and institutions across the province.
The Opening Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Wilson A. Capellan, OSA, together with other Augustinian friars and concelebrants. The celebration marked the beginning of the gathering, entrusting the event and its participants to God through prayer and thanksgiving.
In his homily, Fr. Ronnel Ian M. Garcia, OSA, reflected on the theme of the gathering, “Take Courage: Overcome in Christ – Augustinian Journey,” reminding the youth of their value and role in the Church and society.
“Gasa ka,” Fr. Garcia reminded the delegates, emphasizing that every young person is a gift to the Church, the community, and the country. He encouraged the youth not to keep their talents to themselves but to offer them back to God in service. “Your life, your talents, and your blessings are gifts from the Lord,” he said, urging them to also become a gift for others.
Drawing from the Gospel reading about the Pharisee and the tax collector, Fr. Garcia highlighted the importance of humility in prayer. He explained how the Pharisee prayed with pride, while the tax collector approached God with humility and a sincere plea for mercy. “The proper disposition of prayer is to talk to God, not to talk to the self,” he said, reminding the youth that true prayer begins with humility and a recognition of one’s need for God’s grace.
Fr. Garcia also challenged the delegates to face life’s struggles with courage instead of avoidance, encouraging them to grow through difficulties and remain open to change. He assured them that even in moments of weakness, God continues to meet people where they are. “Please, never ever forget that God is with you,” he said, reminding the youth of Christ’s promise to remain with His people until the end of time.
As the gathering officially begins, the homily served as a reminder for the delegates to remain grounded in humility, prayer, and trust in God’s mercy. With courageous hearts, the Augustinian youth are invited to continue their journey of faith, overcoming challenges and growing together in Christ.
Following the Mass, the concelebrants and delegates gathered for a photo opportunity while waiting for the opening program to begin at the same venue.
The celebration set a hopeful and joyful tone for AYG 2026, as participants begin their journey of faith formation, fellowship, and shared mission in the Augustinian tradition.
