On March 14, 2025, the Sacred Heart Formation House in Aluba, Cagayan de Oro City, became the focal point for the 182nd birth anniversary celebration of Venerable Fr. Leo John Dehon, founder of the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart (Dehonians). The event was graced by Fr. John Karl Cabaluna, SCJ, the parish priest of Immaculate Conception Parish in Aluba, who presided over the solemn Mass at 6:00 PM. The congregation included members of the SCJ Area of Cagayan de Oro, Lay Dehonians, Dehonian Youth, and friends, all gathered to honor the enduring legacy of Fr. Dehon.

The festivities were preceded by a vibrant sports fest featuring volleyball, basketball, and soccer matches, fostering camaraderie and community spirit. Additionally, creative expressions were showcased through a drawing competition and song composition, reflecting the diverse talents within the community. Spiritual preparations commenced on March 5, 2025, with a nine-day Novena Prayer leading up to the anniversary. A special prayer vigil on March 13, 2025, was dedicated to Fr. Dehon, providing a profound time for reflection and devotion. In conjunction with the celebrations, the General Superior, Fr. Carlos Luis Suárez Codorniú, SCJ, issued a heartfelt letter titled “Seeking and Waiting,” commemorating Fr. Dehon’s life and spiritual legacy.

Fr. Leo John Dehon: A Life of Devotion and Social Commitment

Born on March 14, 1843, in La Capelle, France, Léon-Gustave Dehon was raised in a prosperous family. Despite his father’s aspirations for him to pursue a career in law or politics, Dehon felt a profound calling to the priesthood from a young age. He pursued theological studies in Rome and was ordained a priest on December 19, 1868. Assigned as an assistant parish priest in Saint-Quentin, Dehon was deeply moved by the plight of workers during the Industrial Revolution. This empathy led him to establish the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (SCJ) in 1878, focusing on devotion to the Sacred Heart and addressing social injustices. His commitment to social issues was evident through his writings and active participation in promoting the Church’s social teachings.

“Seeking and Waiting”: Reflections from the General Superior

In his commemorative letter, Fr. Carlos Luis Suárez Codorniú, SCJ, reflects on Fr. Dehon’s approach to vocational discernment, encapsulated in the phrase “Je cherchais et j’attendais” (“I sought and waited”). Fr. Dehon’s life was characterized by a balance between active ministry and contemplation, embodying a spirituality that remains relevant in addressing contemporary challenges. The letter draws parallels between past and present societal issues, emphasizing the enduring value of Fr. Dehon’s approach of “seeking and waiting” in today’s world.

A Day of Unity and Reflection in Cagayan de Oro

The celebration in Cagayan de Oro City was a testament to the vibrant spirit of the Dehonian community. The sports fest not only promoted physical well-being but also strengthened bonds among participants. The creative competitions provided a platform for individuals to express their faith and talents, enriching the community’s cultural tapestry. The nine-day Novena and the prayer vigil offered profound opportunities for spiritual growth, allowing participants to deepen their connection to Fr. Dehon’s legacy. The Mass, presided over by Fr. John Karl Cabaluna, SCJ, served as the culmination of these activities, bringing together diverse groups in a unified act of worship and gratitude.

The 182nd birth anniversary of Fr. Leo John Dehon in Cagayan de Oro City was more than a commemoration; it was a living manifestation of his enduring legacy. Through acts of service, creativity, and prayer, the Dehonian community continues to embody the principles of love, reparation, and social commitment that Fr. Dehon championed, inspiring future generations to carry forward his mission.