Fr Martin McAnaney SM, Vicar Provincial of the Province of Europe, has visited the Philippines. Representing the Superior General, Fr Martin received the vows of the ten newest members of the Society of Mary during their First Profession ceremony at the International Novitiate in Eden, Davao City on 25th January.
Commenting on his visit, Fr Martin wrote:
“As I first set foot in Davao, I realised that I was entering a “Country of Welcome” by the smiles and warm words of the people I met … and this was only in immigration at the airport! Frs Pat Muckian and Damian Dempsey were there to lead me on the final stage of my journey from France to the community at Dumalag. We arrived there in the afternoon and the location of the house on the seashore was unexpected and wonderfully pleasant.
As we took the path through the neighbourhood surrounding the house, there again I heard many friendly greetings from the residents who share this space with the St Peter Chanel Formation Community. But it was the liturgical service of welcome with the community in their chapel that touched me deeply in terms of hospitality. I was made to feel nothing short of very special! I thank them all from the bottom of my heart and wish them God’s blessings into the future.”
While in the Philippines, Fr Martin also visited the Matti and Bajada communities, as well as leading the college seminarians at Dumalag in their monthly recollection. Thanks for visiting, Fr Martin! Balik-balik!
Society of Mary 