Filipino Ministry

Pope Leo XIV: Theology serves to move the Church’s mission forward

Theology serves the proclamation of the Gospel; therefore it is an integral and fundamental part of the Church’s mission.”

Pope Leo XIV expressed this when meeting representatives of the Theological Faculty of Puglia and the Theological Institute of Calabria on Monday morning in the Vatican.

Offering reflections concerning the path of formation offered by the respective institutions, the Pope encouraged them to move forward and backward, and to do theology together.

Recalling that Puglia and Calabria lie along the sea, Pope Leo referred to when the late Pope Francis addressed the writers of La Civiltà Cattolica in 2017 and said, “Remain on the open sea. The Catholic must not be afraid of the open sea; he must not seek the shelter of safe harbors.”

Pope Leo said there is a great need for this attitude, especially in the contexts in which the faith must be proclaimed and inculturated today. “It is not a matter of acquiring notions in order to fulfill academic obligations,” he said, “but of setting out on a courageous navigation, a crossing on the high seas.”

Deepening the mystery of the faith

In this context, he reminded them that theological formation “is not a destiny for a few specialists,” “but a call addressed to all,” so that each one may deepen the mystery of the faith and receive the useful tools to carry forward with passion the persevering commitment of cultural and social mediation of the Gospel.

In this perspective, the Pope said he wished to recall the precious journey of unity that has begun in their regions, also by unifying realities, institutes and paths of formation that previously proceeded autonomously.

Pope Leo marveled that this is truly “an important synergy,” marking “a genuine historical step of which they are becoming protagonists,” one that promotes communion among the dioceses, encourages the overcoming of old local rivalries and, above all, fosters an ecclesial journey marked by unity and fraternity.

To read the full article, click on this link: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2026-03/pope-leo-xiv-italian-theological-institute-faculty-calabria-pugl.html

(Above was from an article written by Deborah Castellano Lubovr Wells, Vatican News, March 2, 2026 issue.)

Past Events

Participation in the Los Angeles
Religious Education Congress

The Filipino Ministry of the Archdiocese of San Francisco participated as an exhibitor for the first time at the LA RE Congress, held at the Anaheim Convention Center from February 20-23. Members of the Filipino Ministry Consultative Board who attended the event and helped manage the booth were grateful for the opportunity to experience the diverse cultural and spiritual perspectives shared through the speakers and liturgies. The event fostered a deep sense of community, providing a valuable space for connecting with fellow Catholics from various parishes, while also allowing our members to promote the upcoming 2026 Pilgrimage to the Philippines.

In light of recent challenges, including the devastating fires in Southern California, the theme “Called to Compassion” deeply resonated with attendees. Many felt inspired to embrace greater compassion and mercy in their interactions with others, strengthening the bonds of faith and solidarity during these trying times.

 Click on the link to view additional photos from the event – https://photos.app.goo.gl/MdWm6EZT3hrYSgyE7

Servant Leadership Retreat

San Damiano Retreat Center in Danville, California was the perfect setting for FMCB’s retreat held April 13-14. The tranquility and beauty of its surroundings, amid a myriad of green trees and verdant hills, provided an ambiance of serenity for deep reflection. Father Jerome Magat, Vice Rector and a professor of moral theology at St. Patrick Seminary and University, was the Retreat Speaker. Kudos to Fr. Jerome for leading a very engaging and inspiring retreat. The topic: SERVANT LEADERSHIP. A couple of key takeaways — to develop a TEFLON mindset and to be mindful of the “Donkey Theology” in serving the community. Donkeys are models of meekness and humility, and also of resilience and patience . More often than not, leaders are confronted with challenges and harsh criticisms, so it’s important to rise above the fray and develop a ‘Teflon Mind’ — to not dwell on the negative and have a “short-term memory” of the negativities and to focus more on the positive aspects. For additional photos, click on the link below –

Click on the link for additional photos – https://photos.app.goo.gl/GQLvdmBFWiW5nZTWA