Philippines-Australia: Pauline Family Charismatic Encounter 2025

Norman Melchor R. Pena Jr, SSP (CPSA)

On July 12-13, the Center for Pauline Spirituality and Animation (CPSA) in the Philippines, together with the Pauline Family Spirituality Equipe, organized a two-day Pauline Family Charismatic Encounter (PFCE) at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, Pasay City, for representatives of the Pauline Family in the Philippines – SSP, FSP, PDDM, SGBP, IMSA, ISGA, IHF, and their respective APCs.

The overall aim of the encounter was to share knowledge of the current realities of each Institute. This was expressed in a fourfold objective:

1. Preserve the mission of Christ which Blessed James Alberione entrusted to each member of the Pauline Family;

2. Familiarize members with the treasures of a single Pauline charism expressed uniquely by each Institute;

3. Create a venue where experienced challenges and opportunities are owned and shared; and

4. Empower members anew with the Pauline spirituality as lived by Christ, Mary, and St. Paul.

Among the 45 representative attendees were Fr. Mario Sobrejuanite, SSP Provincial Superior, and Sr. Purissima Tanedo, SJBP Provincial Superior.

Day 1 began with a Mass celebrated by Fr. Nonong Botavara, SSP, while Fr. Norman Peña gave the homily, echoing the words of Blessed Alberione on the dignity of being a Pauline: “Treat me as your servant” is how I intend to belong to this marvelous Pauline Family, both now and in heaven. There, I shall concern myself with those who use the most effective modern means to do good: [working] in holiness, in Christ, and in the Church” (AD, 3).

Fr. Norman, together with Sr. Janice, PDDM, acted as emcees, introducing the different presentations of each Institute, including history, current communities, members, and apostolic activities. In the afternoon, small-group sharing was held, which was summarized afterward in the General Assembly.

Day 2 began with the body prayer of Julian of Norwich, led by Br. Hansel Mapayo, which was appreciated by everyone. This was followed by charismatic sharing, where personal experiences and legacies were given by Fr. Pete Barisoro (SSP), Sr. Purissima Tanedo (SGBP), Sr. Vangie Canag (FSP), and Sr. Mercedes Pineda (PDDM).

Personal reflections ensued and were shared in small groups, focusing on how each Institute can respond to the challenges of the current era. The concluding Mass was celebrated by Fr. Mario together with the parishioners of OLSP. He emphasized the invitation to love as a great witness to the needs of the signs of the times and the conviction that the Pauline Family and its members are a great force willed by God.

Overall, the encounter generated great enthusiasm and inspiration among the attendees. They came away with the joyful conviction that yes, the Pauline Family can do great things for God and, in synodality with Him and with one another, continue to fulfill the legacy of Blessed Alberione.

We sincerely thank CPSA and the members of the Pauline Family Spirituality Equipe for this encounter.