On February 8-9, 2025, the Sacred Heart Formation House in Cagayan de Oro City hosted the second season of the Vocation Festival (Fest Voc), titled “The Joy of Consecrated Life.” Building upon the inaugural season, “San ka Punta? To the Lord!” (Where are you heading? To the Lord!), which provided a general overview of different vocations, this year’s festival delved deeper into the beauty and commitment of consecrated life.

Under the dedicated leadership of Fr. Candido S. Bayron Jr., SCJ, the Vocation Director, and with invaluable assistance from some seminarians and members of the Dehonian Youth – primarily from Immaculate Conception Parish in Aluba and Jesus Nazareno Parish in Dansolihon – the event was meticulously organized to inspire and guide attendees in their spiritual journey.

The festival was structured into two main parts, encompassing three comprehensive modules:

1. Module 1: On Consecrated Life
   This module provided participants with an in-depth understanding of the nature, purpose, and significance of consecrated life within the Church. Discussions highlighted the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, emphasizing their role in fostering a deeper relationship with God and service to humanity.
2. Module 2: The Dehonian Congregation and Spirituality
   Focusing on the rich heritage of the Priests of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (SCJ), this segment explored the congregation’s history, mission, and spiritual practices. Participants were introduced to the charism of Fr. Leo John Dehon, the founder, and the congregation’s commitment to social justice, reparation, and love.
3. Module 3: Stages of Dehonian Formation
   This module outlined the journey of formation within the Dehonian community, detailing each stage from initial discernment to final vows. It provided insights into the spiritual, academic, and pastoral development processes that prepare individuals for a life dedicated to God’s service.

The second part of the festival was dedicated to the entrance examination for aspirants considering joining the SCJ seminary, marking a pivotal step for those discerning their call to religious life.

The event attracted 34 participants from various parishes across Northern Mindanao, including:

• Immaculate Conception Parish in Aluba
• Jesus Nazareno Parish in Dansolihon
• St. Joseph the Worker Parish in Macanhan
• Nuestra Señora Virgen del Rosario in Consolacion
• Maria dela Candelaria in Tagoloan
• San Pablo Apostol Parish in Malitbog
• Santo Niño Parish in Bacolod, Lanao del Norte

The diverse representation underscored the festival’s regional impact and the growing interest in consecrated life among the youth.

Similar vocation festivals have been successfully conducted in other regions, including Leyte on February 1-2, Manila on December 14-15, 2024, and the Zamboanga area on December 7-8, 2024. These gatherings have consistently drawn enthusiastic participants eager to explore their vocational calling and deepen their faith.

The success of “The Joy of Consecrated Life” not only reflects the dedication of the organizers and facilitators but also highlights a renewed interest in religious vocations. By providing a platform for education, reflection, and discernment, the Vocation Festival continues to guide individuals on their spiritual journeys, fostering a deeper commitment to faith and service.

As the festival concluded, participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage deeply with the concepts of consecrated life and the Dehonian mission. Many left with a clearer sense of purpose and a strengthened resolve to pursue their vocational calling, embodying the festival’s spirit of continuing the journey toward a life dedicated to the Lord.