2021 Strenna of the Salesian Rector Major

 Watch the video presenting the 2021 Strenna of Salesion Rector Major Fr Ángel Fernández Artime, S.D.B.

Your may read the English commentary here.

VIDES Philippines: Service in the Time of the Pandemic

See how VIDES Philippines continues with its mission to give hope and share God's in the time of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Meeting of VIDES Asia Delegates

Sr Annecie Audate FMA, VIDES International Director General, presided over the virtual meeting attended by delegates of VIDES groups in Asia on 16 January 2021.

In her opening remarks, Sr Runita Borja FMA, General Councilor for Youth Ministry, underscored that "what the young people ask of us and expect from us, and not only in this pandemic time, is presence and closeness. Not just any presence, but rather a presence of listening, a presence of dialogue and sharing, a presence of hope."

Mr Guido Barbera, VIDES International President, highlighted the effects of the global pandemic to the way of life of the people and to the implementation of the projects of the different VIDES groups. He stressed the need for flexibility and readiness to adapt to the changing realities so that VIDES may effectively carry out its mission to accompany the youth. He also gave his insights in relation to the selection of candidates for the upcoming election of the VIDES International Board of Directors in July 2021.

The delegates from VIDES Japan, South Korea, Thailand, India, and the Philippines gave an overview of the current situation in their respective countries, the challenges they are facing, and updates on their activities.

Sr Annecie led a beautiful prayer asking the Lord's guidance as VIDES groups undertake volunteering activities that cross all ideological, racial, cultural and social barriers. The prayer also asks for strength to accompany young people, to limit the damage that politics and man have caused, and to bring simple smile and express the meaning of true solidarity.

The Director General of VIDES International also highlighted the importance of engendering the culture of reciprocity and of having intercultural and intergenerational discussions so VIDES would be more responsive to the needs of the young people. She

urged the delegates to think about the structure and the direction that the VIDES governing body must have to further the said agenda.

VIDES Philippines Delegate and Chairperson, Sr Mel David FMA, represented the Philippines in the said meeting. VIDES International Board Member and VIDES Philippines Vice President, Ciel Estacio, was also invited to participate in the event.

Highlights of the VIDES Philippines' 25th Anniversary Celebration

 Since 2019, VIDES volunteers have been planning on how the silver anniversary of VIDES Philippines will be celebrated. A lot of ideas have been suggested and were included in the planning. But as all of you know, all the initial plans were scratched out because of the unexpected challenges that we have encountered since the last part of the first quarter of 2020.

Come November 22, 2020, on the day of VIDES Philippines Silver Anniversary Celebration, more than 60 volunteers, both local and international, joined the online get-together of VIDES volunteers from the different parts of the Philippines and the world. The activity began with a mass which was presided by Rev. Fr. Andy Peter Lubi, Rector of Saint Augustine Major Seminary (SASMA) located in Tagaytay. Fr. Andy has been very generous in providing his service and accompanying VIDES Philippines – together with its volunteers and communities – in their journey all these years.

It has been an exciting, joyful and challenging 25 years for all us! Even though we were only able to meet virtually, it was really nice to see a lot of volunteers and some of our dear FMA Sisters. It was a wonderful day, as we were able to push through with the gathering and to also celebrate and reminisce the events and activities that all of us were able to join throughout these years.

Prayer for Frontliners

 Watch the video prepared by VIDES Philippines dedicated to our brave frontliners.  Let's pray for the safety of everyone, especially those who serve at the frontlines.