The first National Rogate Youth Congress (NRYC) of the Family of the Rogate gathered young delegates from all over the Philippines for a three-day event at the Rogationist College - Silang, Cavite from March 14 to 16, 2025. The Congress featured plenary sessions, interactive discussions, spiritual reflections, and cultural celebrations with an emphasis on prayer, mercy, and mission.
The first day began with a warm welcome as delegates from all over the country arrived for the Congress. They represented the youth groups associated with the Rogationist and Daughters of Divine Zeal schools, parishes, and missions. The event was officially opened with a welcoming program. Fr. John Lucas RCJ gave the reason for the meeting and the house rules.
The solemn Mass brought everyone together in prayer and reflection. Fr. Randy De Jesus, National President of the Directors of Vocations of the Philippines, both in his homily and during the plenary session, emphasized the importance of encountering God, which provided insights that sparked engagement and discussion among the delegates.
Throughout the day, they participated in group discussions and interactive activities that fostered intellectual and spiritual growth.
In the evening, Acquaintance Night provided an opportunity for camaraderie and connection. They shared their gifts through dance and video presentations. The day ended with a peaceful time of prayer and worship. The Taize allowed delegates to reflect on the day's experiences and prepare for the sessions ahead.
The second day of NRYC 2025 continued to inspire everyone with a mix 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 walked with the delegates in hope.
During the celebration of Holy Mass, Fr. Jessie Martirizar, RCJ challenged the youth to shift their priorities and perspectives as they seek to live the Rogate Youth identity that fights conformity, mediocrity and superficiality by being prayerful and merciful.
After lunch, the afternoon was flavored with interactive activities and another plenary session that engaged the delegates in meaningful conversations. Ms. Kathrina Mai Beral journeyed with the youth in their hope to organize and strengthen youth ministries through the framework: walk, listen, teach, and send.
Breakout sessions focused on capacity building, allowing participants to develop their leadership and ministry skills. A planning and evaluation session led by church leaders and members provided valuable insight into the direction of youth ministry.
In the evening, the participants gathered for a spiritual pilgrimage through an audio-visual presentation and the recitation of the Holy Rosary. This was followed by dinner, which led into a vibrant cultural night where participants once again showcased their talents and celebrated culture and diversity as well as their shared faith through music and dance.
The day's events strengthened bonds among delegates, deepened their spiritual journeys, and equipped them with valuable insights for ministry.
The convention entered its final day. The delegates conducted the election and installation of new officers and planned their proposed and upcoming activities. With renewed mission and purpose, the empowered young leaders strive to carry on the spirit of Rogate in their communities.
After the morning activities of animation, elections, and meetings, the Congress concluded with praise and thanksgiving to the Lord through the celebration of Holy Mass.
The three-day meeting was filled with lessons on the importance of encountering God, being committed to prayer and mercy, becoming pilgrims of hope, and being empowered by the grace and love of God.
News by Br. Carl Joseph Martinez, RCJ
Photo: Marian Pizarra Rogate Provincial Center for Vocations - Digital Communications
