On March 14, 2026, the Dehonian community at the Sacred Heart Formation House in Aluba, Cagayan de Oro, gathered to commemorate the 183rd birth anniversary of Leo John Dehon, founder of the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart (Dehonians). Members of the SCJ Area of Cagayan de Oro, together with Lay Dehonians, Dehonian Youth, and friends, came together in prayer and thanksgiving, honoring the life, spirituality, and mission of their Founder.

The highlight of the celebration was the solemn Mass at 5:30 PM, presided over by Janusz Burzawa, SCJ, parish priest of the Jesus Nazareno Parish in Dansolihon. The Eucharistic celebration became a moment of unity for the Dehonian family as they remembered the legacy of Fr. Dehon and renewed their commitment to live his charism of love, reparation, and service.

Spiritual preparation for the anniversary began on March 5 with a nine-day Novena, inviting the community to reflect more deeply on the Founder’s spirituality. On March 13, the eve of the celebration, a special prayer vigil gathered the faithful for Scripture readings, silent adoration, and reflection centered on the Dehonian motto: “Adveniat Regnum Tuum — Thy Kingdom come.” The vigil encouraged participants to renew their missionary spirit and dedication to the Heart of Jesus.

The celebration also included a sports fest with volleyball, basketball, and soccer matches that strengthened fraternity among participants. A drawing and poetry competition provided an opportunity for young people and community members to express their faith and appreciation for the life and mission of Fr. Dehon.

In connection with the anniversary, the Superior General, Carlos Luis Suárez Codorniú, SCJ, addressed the Congregation and the entire Dehonian Family in a letter entitled “Among Lions.” In his message, he reflected on the importance of friendship in the life of Fr. Dehon and recalled that the mission of the Congregation is to cooperate in the reign of the Sacred Heart of Jesus through prayer, community life, and service to society.

The celebration in Cagayan de Oro was part of a wider commemoration throughout the Philippines. Dehonian communities and collaborators also marked the anniversary in Zamboanga del Sur and Manila, joining in prayer and thanksgiving for the Founder’s life and mission.

More than a remembrance of the past, the anniversary became a renewed call to live the spirit of Fr. Dehon today—bringing the love of the Heart of Jesus to people and society, and working so that Christ’s Kingdom may grow in the world.