SILANG, Cavite – The first-ever National Rogate Youth Congress (NRYC) gathered young delegates from across the Philippines for a three-day event at the Rogationist College - Silang from March 14-16, 2025. The congress featured plenary sessions, interactive discussions, spiritual reflections, and cultural celebrations, emphasizing prayer, mercy, and mission. 
 
The first day began with a warm welcome as the delegates from all over the country arrived for the congress. The event officially opened with a program where everyone was welcomed. Fr. John gave the rationale for the gathering and the house rules.
 
The solemn Mass brought everyone together in prayer and reflection. Fr. Randy De Jesus, in both his homily and during the plenary session underlined the importance of meeting God. His sharing filled with wise counsels like: "Kapag inaalis natin ang Diyos sa buhay natin, mawawala at magwawala talaga tayo." "Ang puso natin ay may higit na kakayahang makinig. Walang bingi sa taong umiibig." The plenary session provided insights, sparking engagement and discussion amongst the delegates.
 
Throughout the day, they took part in group discussions and interactive activities, fostering intellectual and spiritual growth. 
 
As the evening unfolded, the Acquaintance Night provided an opportunity for camaraderie and connection. They showcased their giftedness through their dance and video presentations. The day concluded with a peaceful time of prayer and worship. The Taize allowed the delegates to reflect on the experiences of the day and prepare for the sessions ahead.
 
The second day of the NRYC 2025 continued to inspire everyone with a blend of spiritual enrichment, learning sessions, and community-building activities.   
 
The morning began with a doxology and energizing animations. A plenary session set the stage for deep reflection and discussion as Fr. Joseph Arcaño, RCJ journeyed with the delegates in hope.
 
During the celebration of the Holy Mass, Fr. Jessie Martirizar, RCJ challenged the youth to shift their priorities and perspectives as they try to live out the Rogate Youth identity combatting conformity, mediocrity, and superficiality by being: #Sobrang madasalin, #Sobrang maawain.
 
After lunch, the afternoon was seasoned with interactive activities and another plenary session, engaging the delegates in meaningful conversations. Ms. Kathrina Mai Beral journeyed with the youth in their hope of organizing and strengthening youth ministries through the framework: walk, listen, teach, and send.
 
Breakout sessions focused on capacity building, allowing attendees to develop their leadership and ministry skills. A planning and evaluation session led by the community heads and members provided valuable insights into the direction of the youth ministry.  
 
In the evening, the participants gathered for a Spiritual Pilgrimage through an audiovisual presentation and the recitation of the Holy Rosary. This was followed by dinner, leading into a vibrant Cultural Night, where attendees showcased once more their talents and celebrated culture and diversity as well as their shared faith through music and dance.
 
The day’s events strengthened bonds among the delegates, deepened their spiritual journey, and equipped them with valuable insights for their ministry. 
 
The congress moved into its final day. The delegates had the election, the oath-taking of new officers, and planning for their proposed and upcoming activities. With renewed mission and purpose, the empowered young leaders strive to carry forward the spirit of the Rogate in their communities.
 
After the morning activities, which included the animation, election, and meeting, the congress was summed up with praise and thanksgiving to the Lord through the celebration of the Holy Mass.
 
The three-day gathering was filled with lessons about the importance of encountering God, being committed to prayers and mercy, becoming pilgrims of hope, and being empowered by the grace and love of God.
 
We thank the Lord and all those who have made this event come to fruition for the greatest consolation of the Heart of Jesus.
 
Send, O Lord, holy apostles into Your Church!
 
#SobrangMadasalin
#SobrangMaawain
#SobrangRogate

Photo: Marian Pizarra
Provincial Rogate Center for ​Vocations - Digital Communications

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