With joy in our hearts, the Indico Pacific Province received Diane Gayatgay as the new Hijas de Jesus postulant last Sept. 8, 2024. There was a simple entrance rite at 9:00 AM at Manresa Retreat House Chapel.

The sisters from the different houses of Metro Manila and the family of Diane gathered together to celebrate this milestone. Sr. Emelinda Falsis, FI, the Provincial Superior, who is currently on her canonical visit in Indonesia, other Hijas de Jesus sisters from Bangladesh, Indonesia, Japan, Thailand, and other parts of the Philippines joined the entrance ceremony via Zoom. The father of Diane, Mr. Roma Gayatgay was also present online.

The ceremony began with a beautiful song – “My Lord, fill me with your love; fill me with your truth, fill me with your kindness; My Lord, let your goodness shine; let me speak your truth; let me be the bearer of your love.”

Then, Sr. Joji Sillorio, FI read the biblical text on the Mystery of the Annunciation and the Fiat of Mary from the Gospel of St. Matthew. This was followed by Diane’s acceptance from Sr. Leoly Quitorio, F.I., the medal, an insignia as a postulant of the Hijas de Jesus Congregation. She also received the booklet on the “Principles of our Vocation,” a postulant’s guide in her stage of formation.

As a response, Diane made her sincere promise before Our Lady with the courage to say “yes” to God’s call. Her consecration was at the same time, a prayer from the heart to the Blessed Virgin Mary as her constant guide and companion in her journey towards becoming an authentic Hija de Jesus. Sr. Edhen Mae Paranga, FI delivered the words of exhortation. She thanked Diane’s generous and spirited response to God’s call through the Hijas de Jesus way of life and the charismatic spirituality of St. Candida Ma. de Jesus. She also acknowledged with deep gratitude the family’s care and love for Diane. Likewise, she assured Diane of the Congregation’s accompaniment in her vocational journey.

Finally, Diane expressed her thanksgiving to the Lord, to the Hijas de Jesus sisters, and to her family for all the love she experienced from them. Blessed be God who loves us dearly!

Some photos of the event...

Sr. Leoly Quitorio, F.I., Postulant Mistress, presides during the rite of Entrance

Diane receives the medal, and book from Sr. Leoly.

Sr. Edhen gives the exhortation...

Diane gives her Word of Thanks.

Diane with her new community...

With the Community of Paranaque

With some sisters from Tahanan Candida Maria de Jesus

Diane with her own family.