As the St. Peregrine Philippine Vicariate prepared to celebrate the Solemnity of the Seven Holy Fathers of the Servite Order, the nine-day novena in their honor commenced on February 8th until February 16th of this year. Each of the Masses had a corresponding theme to highlight the life and holiness of the seven Florentine men who were chosen by our Lady herself to begin an order dedicated to her. Our Servite priests expounded on these themes in their homilies in the Holy Eucharist as the whole Servite family joined in worship of the one true God in spirit and in truth.
On February 17th a celebration of Solemn Lauds was held by the Servite brothers in St. Alexis Falconieri Formation Community. It was led by the Prior and Master of the temporary professed friars, Fra. Jumen Maria. The St. Mary of the Servants Formation Community and the Central Community also took part in the morning prayer. A sumptuous breakfast was served after with the brothers enjoying each other’s company and thanking the Lord and our Lady for the gift of fraternal love and concern.
In the evening of the same day, the Vicar Provincial, Fra. Paul Martin Maria celebrated the Holy Eucharist in honor of the Seven Holy Fathers in St. Peregrine Laziosi Parish Church. Joining with the Father Vicar in the Mass were Servite priests from various communities. Members of the Servite family, including the different congregations of Servite Sisters, the Order of Secular Servants of Mary and other lay organizations of the parish joined the said celebration. The whole congregation pondered upon the holy lives of the Fathers and their commitment to live in communion with God, with our Lady and with one another while serving their fellowmen and Holy Mother the Church. The fiesta celebration ended with everyone eating the fiesta meals and taking the opportunity to get closer to one another by sharing thoughts and stories while at table in the spirit of fraternity.
May the Seven Holy Fathers, the glory of Florence and joy Senario, pray for us with the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Peregrine. Amen.