Fourteen Young Men Join Franciscan Search-In Program

The Search-In Program was held at St. Joseph Friary in Tagaytay City from May 11–17. Fourteen young men from various parts of the country participated in the program, which was headed by the Vocation Director, Fra Odorico Laoreno, OFMConv.

The week-long program included various activities such as entrance examinations and interviews conducted by the Vocation Director to assess the candidates’ capacity and willingness to embrace the Franciscan Conventual way of life. The participants also attended a series of talks on Franciscan charism, history, and vocation, helping them gain a deeper understanding of the life they aspire to. The Office of the Vocation Director expressed deep gratitude to the friars who generously shared their time and knowledge about St. Francis and the Franciscan life.

On the third day, the observers visited Caleruega Church in Nasugbu. On the sixth day, they joined the community in the celebration of the Holy Mass with the Franciscan Missionary Sisters of Assisi. They then proceeded to Alfonso to meet the Provincial Custos, Fra Dennis Vargas, OFMConv. The visit also coincided with the town fiesta of Alfonso.

After lunch, the group went to Barangay Sinaliw Munti for swimming. In the evening, a fraternal night was held at St. Joseph Friary, where the observers, postulants, novices, and friars performed songs and dances and played games as expressions of joy and appreciation. The friars, brothers, and participants were all filled with gratitude for the meaningful encounter experienced during the Search-In Program.

On the final day, the participants attended the Mass for the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord before returning to their respective homes. Let us continue to hope and pray that God may inspire more young men to consider the Franciscan way of life and sustain all of us in our chosen vocations.