“I Am Finally Home”: Reflection on the Catechumenate journey of St. Francis Xavier Parish

There are moments in life that leave a quiet imprint on your heart—moments that remind you why you said “yes” to the mission.

For me, this year’s catechumenate journey at St. Francis Xavier Parish was one of those unforgettable moments. As a Lay Xaverian Missionary, I’ve come to understand that being a missionary isn’t always about going far; it’s also about walking alongside those who are just beginning their journey of faith.

On Easter Vigil, last April 19, 2025, the Lay Xaverian Philippines had the immense joy and privilege of leading 19 catechumens to the waters of baptism. These 19 individuals, each with their own unique story, stood before God and the Church, ready to begin a new life in faith.

For four Sundays leading up to Easter, we gathered with the catechumens in prayer, reflection, and formation. The sessions were anchored in a four-part module we prepared with guidance from the Xaverian Fathers. Each session was designed to help the candidates not only understand the teachings of the Catholic Church but, more importantly, to discover and internalize God’s love for them. The goal was to help them appreciate the beauty of our faith and to truly feel that every sacrament is an expression of God’s love. Everything goes back to the love of Christ.

This year’s group of catechumens was as diverse as it was inspiring. Among the 19 were individuals from diverse religious backgrounds, including a former Muslim, some born-again Christians, and others who, for various personal reasons, never underwent baptism.

(Pictures are taken from the Facebook Page of St. Francis Xavier Parish - https://www.facebook.com/SFXP.Novaliches)

A week later, we celebrated their new life with a welcome program themed “Rooted in Faith, Growing in Love.” We hosted the gathering not just to celebrate but to continue walking with them as part of this growing family of faith.

One of the most unforgettable parts of the program was the sharing of Ms. Divine Melanie Tolentino. She recalled the moment baptismal water touched her head—how she unexpectedly began to cry. “It felt like someone was embracing me,” she said through tears. “At that moment, I knew—I am finally home. I am now a true daughter of God.”

In that single sentence, she captured the very heart of our mission. All the time spent preparing, guiding, and accompanying—it all led to that one grace-filled moment.

Her words echoed the dream of St. Guido Maria Conforti: “To make the world a single family in Christ.” And truly, in that moment, we were one family.

The celebration continued with laughter, dancing, and heartfelt community. The newly baptized were formally introduced, joined in group sharing, and learned about the various ministries of the parish. A joyful dance performance of “Welcome to the Family” lit up the room. We also gave each a cross and a rosary—a simple yet powerful symbol of their new life of prayer and communion. And like any wonderful Filipino celebration, we ended with food, stories, and fellowship.

That day ended with something even more nourishing than the “merienda”—a deep and enduring sense of hope. I hope that these new brothers and sisters will not only remain in the Church but thrive in it. I hope that they, too, will one day guide others just as they were accompanied. And I hope that our parish and our church will always be places where the lost can come home.

Looking back, I realize something humbling: while we were busy teaching them about the Catholic faith, they were quietly teaching us about courage, surrender, and the sacred beauty of new beginnings.

And for that, I am deeply grateful.