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.

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr. Francis Pupkowski, SCJ, together with the members of the SCJ Community of Cagayan de Oro.

In his homily, Fr. Pupkowski reflected on the First Friday devotion as a monthly return to the Heart of Jesus, where Christians find renewal and strength to follow Christ with generous and faithful hearts. Speaking directly to the benefactors, he thanked them for their prayers, sacrifices, encouragement, and generous support, emphasizing that they are not simply donors but true partners in the Church’s mission of forming future priests and missionaries.

As the Dehonian Family prepares to commemorate the anniversary of the death of Venerable Fr. Leo John Dehon on August 12, Fr. Pupkowski reminded the faithful of the Founder’s words: “A vocation born in the Sacred Heart can be preserved only there.” He encouraged everyone to remain close to Christ and to make their lives an offering of love in union with His Sacred Heart.

At the end of the Mass, each benefactor received a photograph of the seminarians with the message, “You are remembered every day in our prayers,” and a Prayer for Benefactors printed on the reverse side. They also received a small keepsake featuring the Sacred Heart of Jesus together with the prayer of Henry Arnoldi.

The celebration concluded with a fellowship meal, during which one of the seminarians shared the story of his vocation, giving the benefactors a personal glimpse into the lives they are helping to shape.

The gathering once again strengthened the bond between the seminary community and its benefactors, reminding everyone that the formation of future priests is a shared mission carried out through prayer, generosity, and love for the Church.