PAULINE FAMILY CELEBRATES FOUNDER’S DAY

Blessed James Alberione passed on to eternal life on November 26, 1971. The anniversary of his death is celebrated by the Pauline Family in the Philippines as Founder’s Day, observed on the Saturday closest to the actual date. Thus, on November 29, 2025, the Pauline communities in Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon gathered to mark his 54th death anniversary with the theme: “Proclaiming Christ Today with Blessed James Alberione.”

The Pauline Family in the Philippines is composed of four congregations—the Society of St. Paul (SSP), Daughters of St. Paul (FSP), Pious Disciples of the Divine Master (PDDM), and Pastorelle Sisters (SGBP)—together with three Aggregated Institutes—the Institute of Our Lady of the Annunciation (IMSA), Institute of St. Gabriel the Archangel (ISGA), and the Holy Family Institute (ISF)—and the Association of Pauline Cooperators (APC). In the tradition of rotating “hosts,” this year’s celebration was led by the Aggregated Institutes and the Pauline Cooperators.

The gathering was held at the SSP community in Makati, with the Eucharistic Celebration taking place at the Sanctuary of St. Paul at 8:30 a.m. The Paulines arrived in great number, many wearing T-shirts prepared by the SSP aspirants printed with one of the Founder’s cherished lines: “Created to Love God.”

The Mass was presided over by priests ordained the previous year. Fr. Christian Tafalla served as the main celebrant, with Fr. Anthony John “AJ” Javier as homilist. Fr. AJ described Founder’s Day as a “homecoming,” a privileged moment to share experiences—memories, laughter, inspirations, and even struggles. Reflecting on the theme of proclaiming Christ today, he emphasized Blessed Alberione’s reminder that the success of communication begins with the authenticity of the communicator. No medium, however advanced, can replace holiness, prayer, and deep union with Christ.

Before the final blessing, the hosts were presented to the community to offer a deeper appreciation of their life and mission “in the world” as leaven of the Gospel. Beyond religious signs or habits, they bear witness to God’s love through simplicity, compassion, joy, and charity.

Since the Mass concluded earlier than expected, the community shared snacks and enjoyed various games—with prizes—organized by the SSP aspirants. Lunch followed at the Don Zanoni Gym, spacious enough to accommodate the large crowd. As Paulines continued conversations and fellowship, raffle winners were announced, adding joy and delight to a celebration that was, in every way, grace-filled and enriching.