Franciscan Communications

22/08/2025

Installation of New Parish Priest and Rector of the Basilica Minore de San Pedro Bautista

The Basilica Minore de San Pedro Bautista, San Francisco del Monte, witnessed a solemn celebration with the installation of Rev. Fr. Fernando B. Radin Jr., OFM as its new Parish Priest and Rector. The Rite of Installation was presided over by Most Rev. Elias Ayuban,CMF, DD, Bishop of Cubao.

In his homily, Bishop Ayuban exhorted the new pastor and rector to follow the example of the Blessed Virgin Mary, chosen by God and ever ready to obey His will, as a model for faithful discipleship and pastoral leadership.

Fr. Radin, in his message of thanksgiving, expressed his deep gratitude and commitment to continue the mission of evangelization and pastoral care in the Franciscan spirit of humility and service. The faithful were invited to accompany him with their prayers and support as he begins this new chapter of ministry at the historic Basilica, the place built by St. Pedro Bautista himself.

Br. Romans Modesto, OFM

22/08/2025

21/08/2025

St. Pius X Parish Fiesta & New Parish Priest Installation

The parish community of St. Pius X in San Andres, Catanduanes joyfully celebrated its feast day with the installation of its new parish priest, Rev. Fr. Rhodel G. Abad, OFM. The Eucharistic Mass and Rite of Installation was presided over by Most Rev. Luisito A. Occiano, D.D., Bishop of Virac. Joining the celebration were priests from the Diocese of Virac and Franciscan friars, including Fr. Lino Gregorio V. Redoblado, OFM, Minister Provincial of the Franciscan Province of San Pedro Bautista.

In his homily, Bishop Occiano exhorted Fr. Abad to be a true shepherd after the heart of Christ guiding his flock through word, action, and holiness. He also encouraged the faithful to journey together with their new pastor in unity and service, reminding them that the life of the parish flourishes when clergy and laity work hand in hand.

The week-long fiesta was filled with both spiritual and community-building activities, such as processions, medical and dental missions, and a mental health awareness program. With the intercession of St. Pius X, the parish community expressed gratitude for their new shepherd and renewed their commitment to grow in faith, service, and love.

Br. Romans Modesto, OFM
📷 of Virac

19/08/2025

18/08/2025

Franciscan Friars from East Asia and Oceania Celebrate Cultural Night at San Pedro Bautista Convent

Quezon City, Philippines – August 18, 2025 Franciscan friars from East Asia and Oceania entities gathered at Portiuncula Hall in the San Pedro Bautista Convent for a vibrant Cultural Night, celebrating fraternity, faith, and diversity. Participants included friars from the Province of San Pedro Bautista (Quezon City), the Province of San Antonio de Padua (Cebu), the Province of the Holy Korean Martyrs (South Korea), and the Foundation of St. Francis of Assisi (Papua New Guinea).

The evening began with a Holy Mass in honor of San Pedro Bautista, integrated with Vespers in the Filipino language. The liturgy was presided over by Br. Irineo Tactac, OFM III, Integration Director of the Province of San Pedro Bautista, who also celebrated his 22nd sacerdotal anniversary. The homily was delivered by Br. Angelito Cortez, OFM, Secretary of the Province.

Following the Mass, the friars shared a traditional Filipino salu-salo through a festive boodle fight, eating with bare hands as a symbol of simplicity and unity. The night was filled with cultural presentations, including songs and dances that showcased the rich traditions of each Franciscan community. It was a joyful celebration of shared mission, brotherhood, and cultural heritage.

-Bien Patriarca, ofm

16/08/2025

20th Sunday in Ordinary time

LIVE Real Monasterio de Santa Clara de Manila - Katipunan

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16/08/2025

The remains of Fr. Angelito A. Salazar, OFM, were solemnly brought in a funeral procession to their final resting place at La Loma Catholic Cemetery. May he rest in eternal peace.

16/08/2025

15/08/2025

Most Holy Redeemer Parish Marks Solemnity of the Assumption and Welcomes New Parish Priest

Quezon City – On August 15, 2025, the Most Holy Redeemer Parish in Masambong celebrated the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary alongside the installation of Fr. Edwin Peter Dionisio, OFM as its new parish priest. The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Most Rev. Elias Ayuban, Jr., CMF, DD, Bishop of Cubao,. In his homily, Bishop Elias reflected on the example of Mary’s fidelity and urged the community to support their new parish priest, reminding Fr. Edwin of his mission to shepherd the faithful with humility, dedication, and a heart attuned to the needs of the parish.

Despite the rainy weather, parishioners, friars from the San Pedro Bautista Province, family, and friends filled the church to witness and support the occasion, reflecting the parish’s strong spirit of unity and faith.

15/08/2025

WATCH: Franciscan Friars participating at the 14th East Asian Conference Common Integration Program hosted by the OFM Franciscans - Province of San Pedro Bautista in the Philippines, sing the Tota Pulchra es Maria during their visit here at the Manila Cathedral on the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

14/08/2025

Human Rights and Climate Change: A Franciscan Perspective

Quezon City, August 14, 2025 — On the 12th day of the East Asia Conference Common Integration Program, participants gathered at the Portiuncula Hall of the Basilica Minore de San Pedro Bautista for a talk on Human Rights and Climate Change led by Br. Angelito A. Cortez, OFM.

Br. Cortez discussed the growing impact of climate change across East Asia, citing examples from the Philippines, Vietnam, South Korea, and Papua New Guinea. He pointed to Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) as one of the most devastating events in recent history, emphasizing how disasters like these expose the vulnerability of poor communities.

“When governments fail to respond effectively,” Cortez said, “it’s the poorest who suffer the most.”

He reminded the audience that climate change is not just an environmental issue — it’s a human rights concern. The lack of access to resources, shelter, and protection during calamities often leaves marginalized groups at greater risk.

Speaking to fellow Franciscans preparing for solemn vows, Cortez challenged them to live out their calling not in comfort or privilege, but in service to the poor. He urged them to follow the example of St. Francis of Assisi, who embraced the outcasts of his time.

“The poor today are the lepers of Francis’ time,” he said. “To be a true friar minor is to stand with them.”

The session ended with a renewed sense of purpose among participants, many of whom committed to integrating social justice and ecological awareness into their ministries.

-Bien Patriarca, ofm