Fraternal Encounters Beyond the Canonical Visit

Beyond the formal activities of the canonical visit to the Novitiate Community, Mother General Graciela Francovig and Sr. Rosa Espinosa enjoyed moments of joy, fellowship, and connection with others during their stay in the Philippines.

Their first day of the visit began with a happy breakfast with the sisters of the Holy Name of Jesus Novitiate community, a simple and enjoyable opportunity to share life at this initial encounter after the Mass.

They also had a brief encounter with members of various religious congregations who were staying at the Retreat House for the CBCP’s Episcopal Commission on Mutual Relations. Among those Sr. Graciela met was the Superior General of the Dominican Sisters, who will represent the Major Superiors at the upcoming UISG gathering this November. The two Generals look forward to this meeting and see each other again there.

Mo. Gen. of the Dominican of Siena, Mo. Cecilia Espenilla, O.P.

Another meaningful moment was their meeting with the parish priest of Sts. Perpetua and Felicity Parish, to which the communities within the Retreat House compound belong. After the Mass, Fr. Fred Cristian Narvasa happily chatted with them a little in the chapel.

Some photo-ops with Fr. Fred Cristian Narvasa, Parish Priest of Sts. Perpetua and Felicity

The day also included a lighthearted photo session in the garden, capturing smiles and happy memories of their time together.

at the background is the Little Chapel of Sacred Heart and the Rosarillo Building

In Front of the Retreat House Main Chapel

At the background is one of the Original Novitiate Buildings

Through these simple and enriching moments, the visit went beyond its formal purpose, becoming an occasion to experience the warmth of fraternity, the joy of encounter, and the beauty of communion in religious life.