BAYBAY CITY — On September 11, 2026, the Franciscan College of the Immaculate Conception (FCIC) became a vibrant center of faith, fellowship, and discernment as it hosted the highly anticipated Inter-Franciscan Vocation Jamboree (IFVJ) Visayas 2026.
Anchored on the theme, “Growing in Our Call with Francis as Seeds of Hope to Eternal Life,” the celebration gathered FCIcians and youth delegates from across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao for a transformative experience centered on discovering and deepening their personal vocations.
A Joyful and Purpose-Driven Kickoff
The jamboree officially commenced inside the FCIC gymnasium, where eager participants gathered for registration. The program opened with high energy, featuring a lively icebreaker led by the Franciscan Youth (YOUFRA) of the Leyte Region, which immediately broke the ice and fostered interaction among the attendees.
This was followed by a captivating opening salvo from the Performance Art Company. In a beautiful display of unity, Franciscan sisters and brothers joined the performers at center stage, setting a joyful and deeply meaningful tone for the event.
Sister M. Karen Lebajo, Provincial, delivered a heartfelt welcome message, officially opening the jamboree. She was followed by Sister Sharon Templanza, who delivered a reflection on “The Purpose,” reminding participants of the importance of celebrating, contributing, and reconnecting with the ultimate source of life. Afterward, Sir Rowen Jay Louillano, OFS, took the stage to introduce the program flow and outline the exciting activities prepared for the youth.
Deepening the Inner Life and Vocation
A core highlight of the jamboree was the series of inspiring talks designed to guide the youth in their spiritual journeys.
Rev. Fr. Mark Anthony Zarate, OFM, opened his session with an engaging activity before diving into his profound reflection on the event’s theme. He challenged the participants to look inward, reminding them that each person has the potential to become a “seed of hope,” especially amid today’s societal challenges.
Fr. Zarate emphasized that true hope is not mere optimism, but a deep, unshakeable confidence found within. He encouraged the youth to nurture their inner lives to fully embrace their personal calling.
Complementing this message, Sr. Beth Cauilan, FAS, delivered an empowering talk titled, “Chosen and Sent to Serve in the Franciscan Way of Life,” offering the youth practical wisdom and insights on how to live out a life of service inspired by St. Francis.
Interactive Fellowship and Spiritual Encounters
To ensure the youth could actively process their learnings, the morning session concluded with the World Café—a dynamic and safe space where participants could share their personal experiences, ask questions, and discover answers together.
As the day progressed, the Youth Jam brought an outpouring of renewed spirit. It featured inspiring vocation videos and lively performances from the YOUFRA Leyte youth groups. The energy eventually transitioned into a solemn and peaceful Taizé Prayer before the Eucharistic Lord, allowing participants a moment of quiet reflection and spiritual intimacy.
A Grand Culmination of Faith
The jamboree reached its spiritual peak with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by the Most Rev. Precioso D. Cantillas, SDB, DD, Bishop of Maasin. The Mass served as a beautiful culmination of the day’s prayers and reflections.
The success of IFVJ 2026 was a testament to the collaborative spirit of the Franciscan community. Deep gratitude is extended to the event’s organizers and sponsors, including the Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration, HSSBO, CSBO, YSLEP, FCIC-CEFM, Sister Jacqueline, OSF (Vocation Promoter), Bro. Rowen Jay OFS, YOUFRA Leyte Region, and FCIC as the gracious host.
The event also saw the robust participation of various Franciscan congregations and communities, including:
- Franciscan Missionary Sisters of the Infant Jesus
- Franciscan Sisters of the Transfiguration
- Franciscan Sisters of Pro Infante et Familia
- Franciscan Handmaids of the Lord
- Franciscan Sisters Handmaids of the Immaculate
- Sisters of Saint Francis of Perpetual Adoration (OSF)
- Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception of the Mother of God
- Franciscan Apostolic Sisters
- Franciscan Missionaries of Mary
- Franciscan Missionaries of the Sacred Heart
- Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart
- Order of Friars Minor – Conventual, Capuchin, and OFM
- Franciscan Imaculatine Sisters
- Franciscan Youth – Philippines
As the delegates return to their respective communities, they carry forward the lessons and inspirations of IFVJ 2026—ready to blossom as Seeds of Hope, rooted in Christ, and inspired by St. Francis.
Faith to Believe. Hope to Grow. Love to Serve.
