In loving memory of Sr. M. Clemens and Sr. M. John Paul
In less than three weeks, the Lord called home two of our dear Sisters, Sr. M. Clemens and Sr. M. John Paul. In 2025, both underwent surgery and were later diagnosed with cancer—breast cancer and colon cancer. Eventually, the cancer spread to their livers. Their battles were difficult, and their suffering was real, yet they continued their journey with us, held in the loving embrace of God.
I remember accompanying them for their medical checkups and listening as the doctors explained their conditions. Those moments were not easy, but they became precious encounters of care, concern, and love.
What touches me most is that, even during these past ten months, especially amid the many preparations for our International Meeting, Provincial Assembly, and the celebration of the 70th Year of Foundation in the Philippines, they were there—not necessarily through active participation, but through their faithful prayers. While my days were filled with responsibilities and the many demands of our mission, they quietly accompanied me, praying for me and with me.
I can still hear their familiar, loving words: “Mags, hinay-hinay… praying for you. Magpahinga ka… love you, Mags.”
Simple words, yet filled with so much love and concern. Their gentle reminders encouraged me to slow down and reminded me that I was never alone in my journey. Now that they have gone home to the Father, these words have become precious memories that I will forever carry in my heart. I may no longer hear their voices, but I will always treasure the love behind them and trust that, in the communion of saints, their prayers continue to accompany me.
Their loving presence and faithful witness were truly a gift. Even in their weakness, they continued to give; even in their suffering, they remained faithful. I especially remember Sr. M. Clemens, who, just last August, continued to serve as the Facilitator of our Annual Retreat. She carried out this responsibility without showing any outward sign of the pain or suffering she might have been experiencing. Her presence and dedication spoke quietly but powerfully of a heart committed to the mission—a spirit that continued to serve despite her own struggles.
Their lives remind me that being a Pious Disciple is not always about what we can do, but about how faithfully we remain united with the Divine Master and how lovingly we continue to accompany others through service, sacrifice, and prayer. In their own ways, both Sisters continued to give of themselves until the Lord called them home.
As we celebrate our 70th Year of Foundation, I cannot help but see the passing of these two dear Sisters as a special offering to the Lord. In this jubilee year, they offered not the work of their hands alone, but the very gift of their lives—their suffering, their prayers, and their final journey home. Perhaps this is their quiet gift to our Congregation: a reminder that our mission is sustained not only by what we do, but also by lives lovingly offered to God.
The Lord has truly blessed me with good and faithful Sisters—true Pious Disciples whose quiet presence and faithful prayers have been a source of strength and grace.
Though their earthly journey has ended, the gift of their lives, their love, and their prayers will remain in my heart. I entrust them now to the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father, grateful for the privilege of having journeyed with them.
Rest in the peace of the Divine Master, dear Sisters. You have finished your race in faith, and now you rest in His eternal love.
Thank you, LORD, for the gift of Sr. M. Clemens and Sr. M. John Paul. May their lives, offered in this 70th Year of Foundation, continue to bear fruit in the life and mission of our Congregation.
