January’s Spiritual Formation Reflects on Vocation
“Our basic vocation is that we are sons and daughters of God.”
This was the main reflection point of Fr. Aris Sison who gave a short talk for the Order of Malta’s first Spiritual Formation this year held last January 11, 2018 at the Santuario de San Antonio Parish.
Fr. Aris took inspiration from the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord celebrated a few days before. In his reflection, he echoed the exhortation of Pope Francis that we should regard our baptismal dates as more important than our birthdays.
“We became children of God during our baptism. During our baptism, God told us: You are mine,” shared Fr. Aris.
Fr. Aris also reminded the members that being members of the Order of Malta is a special vocation and grace and that the work of the Order is essentially the proclamation of God’s mercy. The Spiritual Formation was followed by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist and a fellowship gathering.
Last January’s Spiritual Formation was hosted by Don Ramon and Doña Rosemarie Prieto. The next Spiritual Formation of the Order will be held on February 8 to be hosted by Doña Delza Lazatin. Fr. Aris Sison will continue to lead the members in their prayers and reflection.
The spiritual formation sessions of the members of the Order of Malta Philippines dates back to 1948 during the establishment of the Order in the country. A more intensive and regular spiritual formation started in 2007 upon the advice of Magistral Chaplains Msgr. Lo and Fr. Genaro Diwa. Through the activity, the Knights and Dames are expected to appreciate their membership in the Order as a means of sanctification and spiritual revitalization.
