SARF Visayas Unites for the 21st Annual Regional Reunion

The 21st SARF Visayas Annual Regional Reunion was successfully held on October 18-19, 2025, at Nature’s Village Resort, Talisay City, Negros Occidental, with the theme “Pilgrims of Hope in the 2025 Jubilee Year of Deep Faith and Enduring Love.” This significant gathering was an inspiring occasion that strengthened the unity, faith, and fellowship of the Secular Augustinian Recollect Fraternity (SARF) members across the Visayas Region.

Hosted by the SARF de San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish – Talisay Chapter, Talisay City, Negros Occidental, under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Jorr Rabacal, OAR, the two-day event was attended by 5 other SARF Chapters from different parts of the Visayas.

Participating Chapters were:

• SARF de University of Negros Occidental – Recoletos, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, with 30 delegates, led by Spiritual Adviser Rev. Fr, Amadeo C. Lucero, OAR.
• SARF de Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish – Recoletos, Cebu City, with 26 delegates, under the guidance of Spiritual Adviser Rev. Fr. Don H. Besana, OAR.
• SARF de Our Lady of the Abandoned Parish, Valencia, Negros Oriental, with 9 delegates, led by Spiritual Adviser Rev. Fr. Rouel M. Sia, OAR.
• SARF de Our Lady of Consolation Parish – Recoletos, Laray, Talisay City, Cebu, with 11 delegates, under the spiritual direction of Rev. Fr. Paulino H. Dacanay, OAR.
• SARF de Colegio de Santo Tomas – Recoletos, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, with 15 delegates, accompanied by Spiritual Adviser Rev. Fr. Enrico Peter A. Silab, OAR.
• SARF San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish, Talisay City, Negros Occidental (Host Chapter), with 24 delegates, under the spiritual care of Rev. Fr. Jorr Rabacal, OAR.

The first day began with the arrival and registration of delegates, followed by the arrival of the SARF Provincial Secretary, Sis. Ma.Windie Oane and SARF de SEMoNore Chapter, Antipolo chapter president, Sis. Miriam Ruiz, whose presence added inspiration and encouragement to all participants. The morning continued with the Parade of Banners and Delegates, symbolizing the unity of all Visayas Chapters under the Augustinian Recollect spirit.

The Opening Program featured an Invocation, the National Anthem, and a Welcome Address delivered by Sis. Ma. Lisa Lorraine H. Atotubo, President of the Host Chapter, SARF – San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish, Talisay Chapter.

The day’s sessions included team-building activities that promoted camaraderie and strengthened the fraternal bond among members. In the late afternoon, participants witnessed the Enthronement of the Relic of St. Ezekiel Moreno, followed by the Celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided by Rev. Fr. Joseph Cyprian J. Panaligan, OAR.

The day concluded with a joyful Gatsby-themed Fellowship Night where members celebrated in thanksgiving and fraternity through songs, dances and shared laughter.

The second day commenced with an early Rosary and Morning Prayer, followed by the Eucharistic Celebration with the Rite of Admittance to the Trial Period and Promise of Commitment of new members held at the San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish. The solemn celebration was presided by Rev. Fr. Leonardo P. Paulique, OAR, SARF Negros Regional Spiritual Adviser.

A total of sixteen (16) candidates from various chapters were admitted to the Trial Period, while nine (9) candidates made their Promise of Commitment as full members of the Fraternity. The SARF Provincial Secretary, Sis. Ma. Windie Oane facilitates the Rites of Admittance and Promise, guided the candidates throughout the ceremony.

The morning concluded with the Closing Remarks and Announcement of the Next Year’s Host Chapter, delivered by Sis. Fe Violeta B. Taring. SARF Provincial Vice-President for Visayas. This was followed by a group photo session with the priests and all chapter delegates, and a fellowship lunch held at the San Nicolas de Tolentino Parish Gym.

The 21st SARF Visayas Annual Regional Reunion was a truly grace-filled and meaningful encounter that renewed the spirit of unity, faith, and service among all members. It was a celebration of friendship, fraternity, and fidelity to the Augustinian Recollect way of life – a living witness to the theme, “Pilgrims of Hope in the 2025 Jubilee Year of Deep Faith and Enduring Love.”

Prepared by:
COLLAN CLAIRE B. BAGAPORO