The Bishop of the Diocese of Cubao, Bishop Honesto F. Ongtioco, DD came to Manresa Compound for a fraternal visit to the sisters on November 22, 2023.  Sr. Ma. Veronica Gungon, SJBP accompanied him.  It was a very familial atmosphere with laughter, and heartwarming sharing with the sisters of Mater Dei Community, Manresa Retreat House, and Tahanana Candida Maria de Jesus. 

              Sr. Emelinda Falsis, Provincial Superior presented the Congregation – who we are, where we are and what are our priorities for this sexennial. Three sisters shared the life and mission of the Congregation in the Diocese of Cubao, especially during the pandemic:  Sr. Mary Juelar on the retreat apostolate, Sr. Florencia Constantino on the house for the elderly and the infirmed and I reported on the Congregation’s apostolic response for the poor.

            Bishop Ness, as he is fondly called, inspired us with his gracious words for the elderly, his appreciation for the life and mission in the Diocese, and his strong encouragement of the significance of walking together through communion-participation-mission.  He uplifted the community to continue to be “prayer powerhouses” in the church with one’s charismatic life and mission; to the elderly, he stressed the value of “presence,” no longer doing but being.

            Then, a spontaneous dialogue with him followed; focusing on the difficulties and problems in the diocese, the help we can extend to the Diocese, and likewise how the Diocese can help in the life and mission of the sisters. 

            Bishop Ness concluded with his blessing and he prayed for each one “that we may come to the person of Jesus more intimately, love him more ardently, and follow him more closely.” Finally, it could not be missed – the group photo poses. Everyone feeling blessed and grateful shared an early lunch together.

            Salamat po, Bishop Ness, and Sister VG.

-Sr. Aida Jallorina