Vocation Stories

There came a time that I cannot bear just being by the door. I decided to enter. By the grace of God, that was the time when I felt an upsurge of faith. I decided to leave my mother into the hands of my relatives, not really knowing who will take care of her. That’s faith. I decided to leave my job and the certainty of my future. Despite and in spite of everything, I entered the door. My feet got warm. That’s faith.

On Doors and Cold Feet

Fray Johnny Abellera Esmilla, OSA

I have this call not because I chose to heed it. I am called simply because God loves me, and that love I chose to reciprocate. I entered the seminary not because I am holy – God knows that I am not! In fact, I would rather accept myself as the most unworthy of all the people in the seminary. But I still chose to enter the seminary – simply because I am human… and through God I hope to become holy – like Him, like our God.

The Ordinary

Fray Alvin Vilches Arig, OSA

Happiness is the reason why I am still here and why I am still pursuing. Happiness makes me stay. Happiness makes me grow. Happiness that is not only about the outside, but that of within. And with this happiness, I believe, that despite of my weaknesses as a person, I am called. I have the vocation to live by every day. God’s mercy is the reason why I am here, and I do believe that it is through his mercy that I shall still be here.

Learning from My Grandparents

Fray Mark Anthony Morales Ferrer, OSA

Then, I have realized that throughout my journey, I was not alone, I was never alone, and I believe that I will never be alone.

A Change of Heart

Fray William Peter Acaac Arlegui, OSA

I had survived. With God’s grace and mercy, I will continue to survive. Every time doubts creep in and during the times when I wonder if I am really called for this kind of life, I think of those years before entering the seminary, those years when I enjoyed doing church activities even without thinking of becoming a priest.

BOKASYONG AGUSTINO MINISTRY

Augustinian Province of the Most Holy Name of Jesus of the Philippines