(Manila) – On 31 October 2026, priests, religious brothers and sisters, candidates for religious life, seminarians and lay faithful gathered at Manila Cathedral to celebrate the gift of vocations and launch National Vocations Month. The initiative was held under the theme: “LDR: Discovering God’s Gift Within — Called to Listen, Discern and Respond”.
The day began with the recitation of the Holy Rosary for vocations, seeking the intercession of Mary, Mother of Vocations. This was followed by the Eucharistic celebration, presided over by His Excellency Bishop Roberto O. Gaa, Chair of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines Episcopal Commission on Vocations, together with numerous concelebrating priests.
In his homily, Bishop Gaa highlighted the importance of accompanying and supporting those who are discerning their vocation. He encouraged vocation promoters to walk alongside those in discernment, offering them the freedom and space they need to recognise God’s call.
The celebration continued with a Walk for Vocations from Manila Cathedral to the grounds of San Agustin Church. With banners, songs and moments of sharing, participants spread the message of praying for vocations and valuing the gift of vocations within the Church. A shared merienda brought the gathering to a close, further fostering dialogue and fraternity among those present.
In her address, Canossian postulant Angela NiNi expressed her joy at seeing brothers and sisters from different congregations united by the same desire to follow Jesus. She also spoke of how the experience had deepened her gratitude for the gift of her Canossian vocation and strengthened her commitment to respond generously to God’s call.
