Vocation Team in Cebu VocJam

Friars Odorico Laoreno and Raphael Ysulan participated in the annual Vocation Jamboree (VocJam) of the Archdiocese of Cebu, held at the University of San Carlos - Downtown Campus. The event, which drew over a thousand participants, including youth and religious men and women, was celebrated under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope: Casting Nets, Journeying Together.” Various activities took place throughout the night-long event, which began at 3:00 PM on February 21 and concluded at 7:00 AM the following day.

Religious congregations were given the opportunity to set up booths where young participants could visit and inquire about the unique charisms of each congregation. Events like this provide a valuable platform for the order to promote Franciscan Conventual vocations among the youth in the country. The friars’ efforts were complemented by the vibrant spirit of the youth, who actively participated in the Bible and catechism quiz. As a reward for correct answers, the friars distributed Tau crosses, fostering a fun and engaging learning environment.

The event also served as an opportunity to introduce the Seraphic Father, St. Francis of Assisi, to the youth, along with other Franciscan saints such as St. Maximilian Kolbe and St. Joseph of Cupertino, the patron saint of students. VocJam concluded with a Holy Mass celebrated by the Archbishop of Cebu, Jose Palma. The friars remain hopeful and prayerful that their vocational efforts in Cebu will bear fruit in the future.