The Religious of the Philippine Province (with only four unable to attend) participated at the General Assembly held at the Provincialate compound last March 15, 2008.  The assembly was the concluding portion of the pastoral visit of Fr. Renato Salvatore, MI, Superior General, and the two consultors, Bro. Luca Perletti, MI and Fr. Paolo Guarise, MI.

At the assembly which began at 9:00 AM, Father General presented the observations regarding the Philippine Province that he, Br. Luca and Fr. Paolo gathered during their visits and conversations with the religious in all the communities in the country over a two-week period (March 3-15).  He also presented their recommendations based on their assessment of the Province situation.

Notable in their feedback was the recognition of the unity generally prevailing in the Province.  The many potentials of the Province were also acknowledged and strong encouragement was given for their further development.

The assembly culminated with the Eucharistic celebration that began at 11:30 AM at the St. Camillus Church.  Father Renato said the Mass in English and gave his homily in Italian, with Fr. Paolo translating into English.

Fr. Renato began his homily with the words “I love you.”  He explained that the love springs from the bond of the Eucharist which is an intimate avenue of relating with each other.  After a few minutes he wound up his homily saying, “I will stop here and keep things short so that you will remember something.”

His wish might well have been readily granted.  “I love you” easily became the words of the day, animating the rest of the gathering.  It may well be safely concluded that the words, coming from a PASTOR whose care the flock has felt, have become that “something” to be remembered for a long, long time.