Quezon City, Philippines. On July 20–21, 2025, the Claretian Theology House held a meaningful and fruitful integration program—a time of reflection, discernment, and communal renewal for the Claretian scholastics. More than just a review of recent experiences, the gathering became an inner pilgrimage of faith, hope, and fraternity.
The integration had two clear aims. First, it invited the scholastics to internalize what they had seen, witnessed, and felt through their recent pastoral exposures and formative experiences—whether in the CBFP (Community Based Formation Program), Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE), the Aurora immersion, or the novitiate’s profession of evangelical vows. Second, it laid the groundwork for the community’s action plan for the upcoming formative year.
Framing the encounter in the light of the biblical narrative of the Road to Emmaus, our facilitators, Ma’am Irene A. Castillo, Rubylen S. Valenzuela and Roshella Faberes guided the scholastics to revisit their experiences—those moments where Christ may have walked silently beside them. They emphasized that to internalize is to unite and embody the values encountered in those experiences, allowing them to become part of one’s spiritual identity.
They then helped the participants anchor their journey in the Claretian charism. Drawing inspiration from the burning witness of St. Anthony Mary Claret—” Love is a fire that ignites our hearts and makes us go”—the scholastics were encouraged to rekindle the flame of missionary love. They gained a deeper appreciation of the Claretian mission: to embody the Gospel in all situations, marked by prophetic zeal and pastoral compassion.
The integration was also a space of deep joy and vulnerability. The scholastics opened themselves with courage and sincerity. Some shared painful experiences, such as being rejected or scolded during their hospital ministry. Yet, instead of withdrawing, they embraced these wounds as integral to the missionary journey. Others recalled moments of grace and welcome—like the heartfelt simplicity and hospitality experienced during the Aurora immersion.
This integration bore much fruit. It fostered unity, deepened relationships, and strengthened the collective vision for the future. More than just an event for planning, it became a moment of communion. As with the disciples on the road to Emmaus, the scholastics left with eyes opened, hearts burning, and feet ready to walk the missionary path anew.
