Renovated Saint Paul Sanctuary Blessed on Foundation Day

Makati City, August 20, 2025 — On the memorial of St. Bernard of Clairvaux, regarded as the “grandfather” of the Pauline Family, the Society of St Paul celebrated its 111th foundation anniversary, together with the 95th anniversary of the SSP Makati community. To mark this milestone, the Philippines-Australia Province held the solemn blessing of the newly renovated Sanctuary of St. Paul in Makati.

The 5:00 PM Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Provincial Superior, Fr. Mario Sobrejuanite, SSP, concelebrated by numerous priests from the SSP communities of Makati, Pampanga, Silang, Pasay, and Davao. Also present were the aspirants of St. Paul Seminary in Silang, generous benefactors and sponsors of the renovation, and representatives from the Pauline Family.

The Mass began with the blowing of the shofar—a ram’s horn traditionally used by the Israelites to mark important events or jubilees. Lighted candles and flowers adorned the sanctuary, highlighting its renewed beauty.

In his homily, Fr. Mario recalled the story of young Giacomo Alberione during his night of prayer at the Basilica of Alba on the threshold of the new century. Moved to “do something for the men and women of the new century,” Alberione would later gather young boys on August 20, 1914. In moments of crisis, he was granted a vision of Jesus, the Divine Master, who assured him, “Do not be afraid.” Pointing to the Tabernacle, Jesus said, “From here I want to enlighten.” Fr. Mario stressed that for Blessed Alberione, everything begins from the Tabernacle—making the renovated sanctuary a fitting place for Paulines to encounter Christ, especially in the Eucharist and the Visit.

Fr. Mario expressed gratitude to the benefactors on behalf of the Province, and introduced the aspirants, inviting them to support the formation of future members of the congregation.

On the occasion of the 111th foundation anniversary, Superior General Fr. Domenico Soliman, SSP, sent this message:

“Many years separate us from August 20, 1914, but the presence of Christ in our lives continues to motivate us to journey with him into new and often uncharted territories as true artisans of communion. ‘It is not simply a matter of generating content,’ as Pope Leo reminded young people, but of ‘meeting hearts,’ building new relationships, fostering genuine sharing, and healing the wounds of loneliness.”

After Mass, the community gathered at Alberione Hall for a fellowship meal and entertainment. An exhibit of paintings by Fr. Armand Tangi, SSP, featuring the theme Mother and Child, was also presented. The artworks were offered for sale in support of the Saint Paul Seminary Foundation, Inc.