QUEZON CITY, Metro Manila – Local Superiors from various communities gathered for a two-day meeting on July 17 and 18, 2025, at the Claret Retreat House. The productive encounter aimed to foster spiritual communion, encourage leadership growth, and align community leadership with the Provincial Action Plan and the spirit of synodality. All Local Superiors were in attendance, with the exception of those from Australia and Myanmar.
Day One: Focusing on Guiding Principles and Action Plans
The first day’s session commenced promptly at 8:36 AM with a prayer led by Fr. Alejandro Gobrin, CMF, Prefect of Spirituality and Community Life. Fr. Mauricio Ulep, CMF, served as the facilitator for the day, with Fr. Louie Guades III, CMF, acting as secretary.
Fr. Amador Tumbaga, CMF, Provincial Superior, warmly welcomed the assembled Local Superiors, Provincial Council members, and Prefects. He articulated the core spirit and objectives of the meeting, reiterating points previously communicated to the Superiors. These objectives included fostering spiritual and fraternal communion through shared activities, encouraging leadership development by engaging with guiding documents and the Provincial Action Plan, and aligning local community leadership with the Provincial Action Plan and synodality.
Fr. Mauricio Ulep, CMF, Consultor and Prefect of Formation, then outlined the two-day agenda, emphasizing the crucial role of transparency in all discussions, particularly concerning the guiding principles of mission, participation, and community. He highlighted that this transparent approach would facilitate a synodal way of living out the province’s plans and underscored the importance of every individual’s input for collective progress.
The meeting proceeded with a comprehensive review of the outline of the Vademecum for Local Superiors. The discussion began with an introduction emphasizing six key principles, followed by a detailed examination of the chapters. The responsibilities of superiors were categorized into three areas: those mandated by Universal Law, those outlined in the Constitutions and Directory, and those in accordance with Provincial Norms.
Following a brief break, the discussions resumed with a personal reflection question: “How do I see myself as a local superior at a personal level after reflecting on the Vademecum? What are my joys and hopes?” Each Local Superior shared their insights and sentiments regarding the Vademecum, contributing to a rich exchange of experiences.
The focus then shifted to the Provincial Action Plan (PAP). Fr. Mauricio provided an insightful overview, encouraging Local Superiors to note aspects of the plan that would impact their communities or need integration into their community plans. He fostered an environment of inquiry, inviting questions and clarifications from the Prefects leading the discussions. Throughout the review, he posed a crucial recurring question: “As we review the plan, what key elements do I see that must be integrated into the local community project? What should be emphasized? What needs to be included to improve the plan?”
The PAP presentation meticulously followed the three processes of transformation: Mission (Apostolate, Youth and Vocation Ministry, Communication), Participation (Superior, Economy), and Communion (Spirituality & Community Life, Formation). Each presentation segment was followed by a dedicated time for clarifications and questions from the Local Superiors. The day’s session concluded at 5:45 PM, followed by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Fr. Ronaldo Banaria, CMF.
Day Two: SOMI Principles, Planning, and Spirituality
The second day of the meeting was dedicated to a comprehensive discussion of the SOMI Principles, the crucial task of making Personal and Community Plans, and the vital integration of La Fragua spirituality into the communities.
During the afternoon session, the family of the late Fr. Rhoel Gallardo, CMF, arrived and had a photo session with the group.
The two-day meeting concluded with a Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Bong Suñaz, CMF.
The meeting served as a vital platform for the Local Superiors to engage in meaningful dialogue, align their efforts, and strengthen their collective commitment to the province’s mission and future direction.
