On June 30, 2015, the Solemnity of St. Paul the Apostle, there was a 3-in-1 celebration at the Queen of Apostles Sanctuary in Pasay. A Thanksgiving Mass was offered on the occasion of 65th anniversary of religious profession of Sr. Assunta Labay, fsp, the 60thanniversary of religious profession of Sr. Immacolata Legaspi, fsp, Sr. Maria Grazia Billanes, fsp and Sr. Virginia Guevarra, fsp and the perpetual profession of Sr. Mary Jane Alibo, fsp and Sr. Maria Jose Lorilla, fsp. The two young sisters made their perpetual profession in Alba, Italy on June 13, 2015.
Rev. Fr. Jose Aripio, SSP Provincial Superior in his homily said that in this occasion “we echo the sentiments of the psalmist in the responsorial psalm “It is good to give thanks to God”. We look back with gratitude at the past experiences of our dear sisters who renewed their commitment with much passion and dedication to follow the Divine Master until the end. We look at the present with joy as we celebrate also the centenary of foundation of the congregation, and we look to the future of religious consecration with hope for more holy vocations.”
It was an inspiring celebration and manifestation of God’s love and faithfulness to each of the dear sister jubilarians. It also gives hope to the young professed that they too will reach this celebration one day. The simple but meaningful celebration was graced with the presence of four priests, members of their families and relatives, Pauline family members, representatives of other religious congregations, friends, benefactors and Pauline Lay Mission Partners.
Sr. Immacolata gave a short speech of thanksgiving and sang the song below which moved many to tears:
I asked the Lord to comfort me, when things weren’t going my way
He said to me, “I will comfort you and lift your cares away.”
I asked the Lord to walk with me when darkness was all that I knew
He said to me, “Do not be afraid, for I will see you through.”
I didn’t ask for riches, he gave me wealth untold.
The moon, the stars, the sun, the sky, and gave me eyes to behold.
I thank the Lord for everything, and count all my blessings each day.
He came to me when I needed him, I only had to pray.
And he’ll come to you if you ask him to.
He’s only a prayer away.
