On March 14, 2024, the Sacred Heart Formation House in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines, has been filled with spiritual joy and vibrant energy as they celebrated two momentous occasions: the 181st birth anniversary of their esteemed founder, Fr. Leo John Dehon, and the installation of a new administration to carry forward his legacy of service.

Fr. Dehon, a radiant light of compassion and faith, was born on March 14, 1843. His unwavering dedication to social justice, spiritual growth, and serving others has inspired countless lives worldwide. His legacy continues to resonate through generations.

The festivities commenced with a special nine-day novena prayer on March 5th, seeking blessings and reflecting on Fr. Dehon’s teachings. The formation house residents then organized a sports fest, on March 9th and 10th, where teams named after biblical references – Romans, Corinthians, Colossians, and Ephesians – displayed their athleticism and companionship through friendly competitions. On March 10th, the celebrations expanded to include friends from various educational institutions, fostering a welcoming and joyful atmosphere.

On March 13th, the Formation Community gathered for a reflective Adoration Vigil, honoring Fr. Dehon’s legacy and praying for new vocations to continue his mission of love and service.

The culmination arrived on March 14th with a celebratory Holy Eucharist presided by the outgoing Regional Superior, Fr. Lukas Hadi Siswo Sasmito, SCJ. In his homily Fr. Sasmito, based on the readings of the day, said that Jesus is not conditioned by human praise, that He is not disturbed by human opposition or contradiction, looking for human praise is an obstacle to believing in Him. Talking about Fr. Dehon he emphasized the importance of knowing Jesus through study and reflection and the importance of living with Him; integrating our knowledge about Jesus into our daily lives.

During the heartfelt ceremony, the newly appointed Regional Superior, Fr. Niño Etulle, SCJ, made his “Profession of Faith,” signifying his unwavering commitment to the teachings of the Church and to the SCJ congregation’s values and mission. Joined by four councillors – Fr. Candido Bayron, Fr. Rechie Gier, Fr. Donald Longno, and Fr. John Karl Cabaluna – Fr. Niño Etulle embarks on this noble journey of leadership and service. Fr. Etulle is the first Filipino superior of the SCJ Philippine Region, and the whole Council is also made up of all Filipinos.

“As we welcome the new administration of the SCJ Philippine Region, we implore Your blessings upon them. Grant them the wisdom to navigate complex choices, the humility to listen and learn, and the courage to act with conviction for the greater good of the Region. May your guiding Spirit illuminate their path in all endeavors, empowering them to lead with integrity, compassion, and justice, ever mindful of the example set by Fr. Dehon.” (Concluding Prayer from the Novena Before the Birth Anniversary of Fr. Leo Dehon 2024.)

Here, special thanks to the outgoing Regional Superior Fr. Lukas Hadi Siswo Sasmito, SCJ and his Council. Thank you for everything and God bless!

The celebration was enriched by the presence of SCJs from across the Cagayan de Oro Zone, Manila, and Leyte. Esteemed guests, including the Dehonian Youth, Lay Dehonians, and a group of benefactors from Poland, also joined the celebration. Together, they honored Fr. Dehon’s enduring legacy and shared a spirit of fellowship and devotion.

As the day concluded with a shared meal and joyful camaraderie, the Sacred Heart Formation House reaffirmed its commitment to Fr. Dehon’s vision of compassion, solidarity, and service – a beacon of hope in a world yearning for love and understanding.

“Eternal Father, …, we offer you our heartfelt thanks for the life and witness of Fr. Leo Dehon. May his example continue to inspire us to live lives of holiness and service, and may his prayers continue to intercede for us before your throne. Bless our efforts to carry on his mission of peace and reconciliation, and help us to be faithful stewards of the gifts you have given us. We ask for your grace and guidance in all that we do, that we may always seek to do your will and to bring glory to your name. Amen. (Day 9 of the Novena Prayer Before the Birth Anniversary of Fr. Leo Dehon 2024).