Renewed Hearts, Renewed Commitment: Scalabrinians in Manila Celebrate Devotional Renewal of Vows

On December 8, 2025, the Scalabrinian religious and missionaries in Manila gathered in a spirit of deep faith and fraternity to celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. United as one community, they also marked a moment of grace: the devotional renewal of their religious vows, a heartfelt recommitment to the Lord and to the mission entrusted to them.

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr. Leo Bobila, CS, the local superior of the Scalabrini Theological House of Studies (STHS). Concelebrating with him were Scalabrinian priests serving in various ministries across Manila, along with the religious and seminarians who are journeying toward the same missionary call. The gathering overflowed with gratitude and joy as the community devotionally renewed its dedication to Christ through the evangelical counsels.

This annual act of devotion is more than a ritual—it is a return to the heart of the Scalabrinian vocation. Inspired by St. John Baptist Scalabrini, the community sought to deepen their love and devotion to the Blessed Mother, whom the Founder himself entrusted with the care and protection of the congregation. Devotionally renewing their vows on Mary’s feast day served as a reminder of her humility, obedience, and unwavering faith—virtues that every Scalabrinian strives to embody in the service of migrants, refugees, seafarers, and all people on the move.

In a world constantly changing, moments like this ground the Scalabrinian mission in the eternal love of God. The renewal of vows reawakens the desire to live faithfully the commitments of poverty, chastity, and obedience, and above all, the commandment of love that gives meaning and direction to all missionary service.

Gathered around the Eucharist, the Manila community strengthened not only their personal vows but also their communion with one another—a reminder that mission is always carried out together, never alone.

With hearts renewed and spirits strengthened, the Scalabrinians once again entrust themselves to the care of the Blessed Mother and the guidance of their Founder:

Mother Mary — pray for us.

St. Scalabrini — pray for us.

SFCP Media Office