“The purpose of the canonical visitation is to examine the community life and work of the friars and the administration of the priory. It should have a predominantly fraternal and spiritual character and conclude with a conventual chapter in which problems brought to light are confronted with charity, firmness and moderation.” (OSM Constitutions, 212)
The Vicar Provincial, Very Rev. Fra Paul Martin Maria Gapuz, OSM, accompanied by one of his councilors, Fra Bryan Maria Eala, OSM, conducted the canonical visitation of the St. Peregrine Central Community last April 20-21, 2026.
A Servite friar is a man who is called, formed, consecrated and sent forth as an agent who prolongs the presence of the Blessed Virgin Mary at the foot of the cross as well as the countless crosses of humanity. A Servite friar is called to be a man of service for his community and for those around him, in his personal capacity or field of expertise or profession. As friars living in the community, all are expected to proclaim the Gospel and live out the Servite religious life through frequent sacraments, unceasing prayer, personal study, apostolate and work as their own witnessing to the Kingdom of God.
It is our constant hope, prayer and goal that our communities—whether in the midst of a busy city, in the outskirts or in far-flung areas accessible through challenging terrain— will truly be communities of consecrated men religious who constantly announce the Good News of salvation and the glories of the Mother of God by their “lex orandi, lex credendi, lex vivendi” (prayer, belief and way of living).
Laus Deo et Mariæ!
