Religious sisters continue Franciscan mission for poor in Naga
By Myrna S. Bermudo
“Formation and catechesis of children and youth is at the heart of our apostolate here in Naga,” said Sr. Faustina Salas, FSI. “We have mothers’ class, and we gather the children, whom we call Little Angels, every week for catechesis. We also have a weekly formation for teenagers whom we named Youth Franciscan of the Immaculate. The young girls are Associates who receive Franciscan formation. We bring them to the parish church of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Carolina so that they can attend mass and receive the Sacraments. Some of them are now working abroad! Those who attended formation since we started here in Naga, visited us to express their gratitude and gave donations for our apostolate. If we have supply, we distribute rice to those most in need in the upland barangays. Kasi di sila nararating ng tulong minsan.”
The presence of the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate in upland Naga City brought cheers to 100 children in Sitio Yabo, Carolina last December 29, 2022.
A beaming Caceres Archbishop Rolando J, Tria Tirona , OCD, DD, joined them in the gift-giving activity after a Eucharistic celebration where he celebrated his 28th episcopal ordination anniversary. Food, toys and slippers were given.
The activity was also a culmination of a year-round weekly catechesis for the children in Sitio Yabo.
It was in 1994 that the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate (FSI) started their apostolate in catechesis, various social programs and parish assistance.
At present, the FSI Sisters give catechesis to children, youth and mothers of the parish in Barangay Carolina, Naga City. They prepare the parents and the children, who gather at their convent, in receiving the sacraments.
“Like the Seraphic Father St. Francis, the Franciscans of the Immaculate strive to be perfectly conformed to the poor, humble, crucified Jesus through a life of charity, supernatural obedience and poverty. They are totally consecrated to the Immaculate Virgin after the recent example offered by St. Maximilian Mary Kolbe,” a quote from the website dedicated to Mary (marymediatrix website).