There is something uncomfortable about today’s Gospel.
A Canaanite mother comes to Jesus because her daughter is suffering. She cries out for help, but Jesus seems silent. The disciples want her to go away.
Yet Jesus finally says:
“O woman, great is your faith!”
Why was her faith great?
Because she refused to give up. She trusted Jesus even when everything seemed to tell her to walk away.
On August 12, 2026, the Sacred Heart Formation House in Cagayan de Oro celebrated the 101st death anniversary of Venerable Fr. Leo John Dehon, founder of the Priests of the Sacred Heart (Dehonians).
The Eucharist was presided over by Fr. Niño B. Etulle, SCJ, Regional Superior of the Dehonians in the Philippines. SCJs from the Cagayan de Oro area, seminarians, friends, and benefactors gathered in gratitude for Fr. Dehon’s life and mission. The celebration was preceded by a nine-day novena with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope with the Heart of Christ,” inviting the community to rediscover Fr. Dehon’s spirituality and renew its commitment to live with the Heart of Christ.
On August 7, 2026, the Sacred Heart Formation House held its Second “First Friday with the Benefactors,” continuing a beautiful initiative that brings together the seminary community and the generous friends who support the formation of future Priests of the Sacred Heart.