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Dear Beloved Friends,
Praise be to Jesus and Mary!
Greetings to all. My name is Prince Charn T. Mabale, a Scalabrinian Seminiarian and I am honored to be a part of the Scalabrinian family. I am deeply grateful for the countless blessings that God has bestowed upon me, and today, I would like to share with you why I chose to become a Scalabrinian and my journey within the seminary.
I remember a time when I felt a profound emptiness gnawing at my heart, even amidst the hustle and bustle of life. Wherever I went, I sensed an unexplainable void within me. I tried various activities that teenagers typically engage in, but ultimately, I couldn't find the true joy that I was searching for. I pondered over what was missing in my life. It was during this period of introspection that the divine providence intervened and my life took a dramatic turn.
During a Diocesan Vocational Campaign held at our seminary in Tagum, I decided to explore the possibility of priesthood by taking the entrance exam. Unfortunately, I did not pass. Disheartened, I chose not to pursue it further. Yet, providence intervened during a vocation campaign in our parish, where a Scalabrinian priest approached me, while I was practicing songs for Sunday mass, and invited me to consider seminary life. Without fully comprehending why, I found myself saying yes. Then, he introduced me about the congregation and together we prayed for the intercession of Mother Mary to discern my vocation. This time, I embarked on a journey of discernment.
Five months later, during another vocation promotion led by the same priest, I took the exam with my friend John Marc. This time, I felt certain that I was meant to become a seminarian. Hence, when I received the news of passing the entrance exam, an overwhelming joy surged within my heart.
My journey as a Scalabrinian seminarian officially began in September 2023. In this journey I found myself with many challenges. Within the first week, I was confronted with an intense wave of homesickness, longing for the familiarity of home. This challenge tested my determination to continue, but through unwavering prayer and the support of divine grace and my fellow seminarians, I emerged victorious several months later. Throughout this challenging period, a verse from Ephesians 2:10 resonated within me: "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." This scripture served as a guiding light, reminding me that God does not call the qualified; rather, He qualifies those whom He calls. With this profound understanding, I faced subsequent crises with courage, knowing that I have a solid foundation in our Lord Jesus Christ.
To my dear brothers and sisters who aspire to become religious priests or sisters, I urge you not to fear following Jesus. Though the cross may seem heavy, remember that you are never alone. He is always with you. I encourage you to come and see, and let us follow Him together.
May our journey of vocation be a testament to His unfailing love and grace.
With heartfelt blessings and gratitude,
Prince Charn T. Mabale,
Scalabrinian Seminarian