Sisters, families, friends, lay partners, and others, come together at the Canossa College chapel in San Pablo City for the joyous celebration to mark the 25th and 50th year of God’s love and fidelity in the lives of our Golden Jubilarians- Sr. Edita Tan, Sr. Violeta San Miguel, and our Silver Jubilarians – Sr. Milagros Reyes, Sr. Jovy Benavidez, Sr. Elsie Nini, and Sr. Marie Maureen Cejas last September 14, 2023. The atmosphere was overflowing with festivity and thanksgiving to God for the beauty of the gift of religious vocation to these Sisters and to the Church.
Everyone witnessed a magnificent display of God’s love as the Jubilarians walked along the aisle with their families, the Provincial Team, and Priests coming from different places who attended the Eucharistic Celebration. Msgr. Pedro Gerardo O. Santos, Parish Priest in St. Andrew the Apostle Parish in Makati, a spiritual companion, a co-journeyer, and a dear friend to the Canossians, presided over the Mass together with other concelebrating priests. He delivered an exceedingly heartwarming homily making this celebration more meaningful and memorable, not just for the Jubilarians, but for everyone present. Look, listen and love was the theme of his message – always to look at Jesus Crucified who was attracted to each of them, to listen to Him always and obey His will to the end, and to love Him in every person they encounter in the community and in the mission where they are sent. Sr Violeta gave the vote of thanks and profound gratitude to everyone involved in the planning and celebration, as well as words of thanks to those who had been part of their journey over the years. After the Mass, a joyous spirit filled the air, as everyone made their way to the Court of Thanks for the reception and a simple program. The Jubilee celebration demonstrated the power of faith, hope, and the ability to endure in the spirit of love while leaving all to God. It will be remembered fondly, as a source of inspiration that God can do great things through us when we place our complete confidence in His hands. May this celebration enkindle many young people to respond generously to look, listen, and love God who calls them into consecrated life.
