In a comprehensive display of unity and pastoral closeness, two Consultors from the Redemptorist General Government in Rome have concluded a wide-ranging fraternal visit to the Redemptorist communities of the Visayas and Mindanao. The visitation, which is part of the General Government’s ongoing engagement with the Province of Cebu, has been a journey of listening, dialogue, and shared mission spanning seven key communities across the Philippine archipelago.

The visiting Consultors, Fr. Gerardo Hernandez Carrasquillo, CSsR, and Fr. Paul Vinh, CSsR, arrived in the Philippines on February 16, 2026. Their mission was not one of inspection, but of fraternal accompaniment—to live with the confreres, to understand their joys and challenges, and to strengthen the bonds that unite the global Redemptorist family.

The Itinerary: A Journey of Encounter

The Consultors’ journey took them to the heart of Redemptorist life and ministry in the southern Philippines, following an itinerary designed to reach as many confreres and lay partners as possible.

– Cebu: The visit commenced in the two communities: St Alphonsus Apostolic and Formation Community and the Holy Redeemer Provincial Community. Here, the Consultors held initial meetings with the members of the local community as well as lay partners in mission and apostolates, setting the tone for the weeks ahead.

– Tacloban: From Cebu, they traveled to Tacloban City, a community known for its resilience and its deep commitment to missionary work. They met with the local Redemptorist community and paid special attention to the members of the Redemptorist Itinerant Missionary Community (RIMC), acknowledging their vital work in bringing the mission to the most remote areas.

– Davao: The visit then moved to Mindanao, with a stop in Davao City. The Consultors engaged with the confreres serving in this diverse and dynamic region, discussing the challenges and opportunities of living the Redemptorist charism in a multi-cultural and inter-religious context. They also had the chance to meet with the Students in theology as well as our collaborators at the St Alphonsus Theological and Mission Institute. 

– Iligan: Continuing their Mindanao journey, the Consultors visited the community in Iligan City. They spent time listening to the confreres who minister in an area marked by both social challenges and vibrant faith.

Dumaguete: The final leg of the journey brought them to Dumaguete City, where they concluded their formal visits. In this community, they gathered one last time with the confreres to share insights and offer words of encouragement.

Moments of Grace: Meetings and Dialogue

At each stop, the Consultors dedicated themselves to a schedule of encounter. They presided over the Eucharist with the local communities, using these celebrations as a focal point for unity and prayer. Following the liturgical gatherings, they held formal meetings with all the members of the community.

These sessions were not merely informational. Fr. Hernandez and Fr. Vinh facilitated open discussions about the life of the global congregation, sharing updates from Rome and listening to the perspectives of the Filipino confreres. They explored themes of missionary creativity, community life, and fidelity to the Redemptorist vow of promoting the “Abundant Redemption.”

A significant and highly valued aspect of the visit was the time set aside for individual dialogue. The Consultors made themselves available to meet personally with each confrere, offering a space for private conversation, spiritual sharing, and personal encouragement.

Furthermore, recognizing that the Redemptorist mission is a shared one, the Consultors met with lay partners and collaborators. They engaged in dialogue with parish pastoral councils, leaders of ministries, and those who serve in various capacities within the Redemptorist churches. These meetings affirmed the indispensable role of the laity in the mission and strengthened the bond between the religious and the people they serve.

As the Consultors prepare to return to Rome, they carry with them the stories, hopes, and prayers of the Redemptorist communities in the Visayas and Mindanao. The visit has served as a powerful reminder that the Redemptorist family, though spread across the globe, is united by a common mission and a shared fraternal bond. It is hoped that this time of grace will bear fruit in a renewed zeal for the Gospel and a deeper commitment to serving God’s people, especially the poor and most abandoned.

Photos. Fr Paul Vinh, CSsR, CSsR Tacloban