A Jubilee of Ardent Vocation: Celebrating 50 Years of FIR

Nurturing faith and journeying together with the spirituality of stewardship was the central theme of the 50th Golden Jubilee of the Formation Institute for Religious (FIR) last February 08, 2025 at the Sedes Sapientiae Auditorium at Holy Cross of Davao College. The event brought together clergy, religious men and women from different congregations.

Most. Rev. George Rimando, Auxiliary Bishop of Davao presided over the Holy Mass at nine in the morning. In his homily, he highlighted three things: 1. Looking back with the sense of gratitude, 2. Living the present with enthusiasm and 3. Looking forward to the future with confidence.

Bishop George also added the importance of giving praise to God for sustaining FIR and to give thanks to the Almighty who is the source of hope. Moreover, he said that hopefully the laity will be inspired by the religious men and women.

After the Holy Mass a short break followed, then Bro. Noelvic H. Deloria, SC, President of Holy Cross of Davao College gave the talk that highlighted how FIR shaped and molded him in his formation in the religious life. He also added the role of FIR in proclaiming the Lord especially with the challenges that modernity brought.

The fellowship lunch commenced after the talk wherein everyone happily dined together. A photo booth was also installed in the venue that allowed the participants to smile and share memories with one another.

Different congregations showcased their talents by performing various acts such as dancing. A raffle also occurred which brought excitement to everyone. The delegates from the different congregations happily cheered as their names were being called to receive various prizes. (Allyza Hope Tabigue | Photos by DCH & Sr. Cha Mamotho, TDM)