From April 10–12, 2026, fifty vocation animators from across the Philippine Mission, joined by members of the Formation Team, two Sisters from Thailand, and one from Korea, gathered at the DC Provincial House for the Vocation Animators’ Assembly.

The Assembly opened with the celebration of the Eucharist, followed by the session ‘Our Journey So Far and the Road Ahead’ led by Sr. Maricar CARILLO, DC. She presented the vocation program, expressed gratitude, highlighted current initiatives, and addressed challenges such as secularism, mental health, digital saturation, and fragile family systems—underscoring the need for animators who are spiritually grounded, psychologically aware, and pastorally responsive.

Day One, “Returning to the Source: Identity, Charism, and Calling,” featured Fr. Gerardo VIBAR, CM, who shared on the “Accompaniment as a Work of Charity: Our Charism in a Changing World.” Sharing circles followed, offering space to reflect on blessings and challenges in vocation ministry.

Day Two, “Journeying with the Young: Culture, Creativity, and Compassion,” began with Dr. Jhon Cadiz Carandang, RPsy, on “Understanding Today’s Youth: Mental Health, Digital Identity, and Spiritual Hunger.” The panel “Voices of the Young” brought insights from Atty. Jolo Maniquis, Ms. Gladys Badlon, Aspirant Jeny Auditor, and Ms. Gina Oracion. In the evening, Sr. Herminia SUTAREZ, DC, led a workshop on accompaniment skills—attentive listening, meaningful questioning, and discerning spiritual movements.

Day Three, “Where the Spirit Leads: Synodality and Action,” focused on communal discernment and mission planning. Sr. Maria Ana Rosario EVIDENTE, DC, delivered the keynote “Building a Synodal Vocation Culture in Our Local Communities.” Regional groups developed action plans, later shared in plenary, followed by dialogue with the Curia. The Assembly concluded with a Eucharistic Celebration and sending ceremony officiated by Fr. Gerardo VIBAR CM, under the theme “Hearts on Fire, Feet on the Move.”

Through prayer, dialogue, and shared experience, the Assembly became a space of renewal and hope. Participants returned to their communities with new insights, strengthened skills, and a renewed conviction: that in walking together, hearts are ignited and vocations are born.