On October 12, 2024, the Religious Institute of Alagad ni Maria (Philippine Disciples of Mary) gathered for a special 3-in-1 celebration. Thanks to the combined efforts of the Decoration, Food, and Program Teams, as well as many volunteers, the event became a meaningful tribute to the AM priests and their mission. The occasion was truly a “Labor of Love,” reflecting months of preparation and dedication.

         The event honored three milestones:      Fr. Peter Edward Lavin, AM, celebrated his 40th Sacerdotal Anniversary; Fr. Christian Bustonera, AM, and Fr. Mark Cruz, AM, were recognized for their 21 years of priesthood. Special thanks were given to Fr. Christian for securing Rosary Academy as the venue before his return to Manila.

        The celebration began with a Thanksgiving Mass led by Fr. Lavin, joined by fellow AM priests and co-celebrated by Fr. Thomas Naval. After Mass, guests enjoyed a program and a catered feast that featured crowd favorites like lechon, donated by generous parishioners. Greetings and messages of appreciation were shared by community representatives from various partner ministries.

          Performances added a heartfelt and memorable touch to the evening. The TLV Men and AM priests sang “The Impossible Dream,” reflecting Fr. Peter’s values. Kavita read a touching narrative on Fr. Peter’s journey to priesthood, while the TLV Ladies performed “If We Hold On Together.” The M&M Group also performed a tribute dance in memory of the late Cynthia Hernandez, whose presence was fondly remembered.

          The night was also a feast of Filipino dishes, with contributions of traditional treats like suman and palitaw, and a catered menu by Gigi Goyena. Special recognition was given to the TLV Food Volunteers, led by Tita Lagman and Lulu Santiago, for their tireless efforts in feeding and caring for attendees.

           Above all, the event was a celebration of faith, unity, and gratitude. The AM community expressed deep appreciation for the enduring service of their priests, whose presence continues to guide and inspire. With joy and fellowship at its heart, the celebration affirmed the mission of Alagad ni Maria and its bright future ahead.

        Our Friends of the Alagad ni Maria Involved in Leading the Youth (FAMILY) Pre-Christmas Celebration on Tuesday, December 3rd was a heartwarming gathering filled with faith, gratitude, and generosity.

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         The evening began with a Eucharistic Celebration at 6 PM at the AM Chapel, bringing us together in prayer and thanksgiving. Afterward, we enjoyed a simple yet meaningful outdoor dinner, where members shared stories and reflected on the joy of giving.

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          A special thank you to all who participated in our Crittenton Christmas Gift Giving Program and brought their beautifully wrapped gifts with care and love. Seeing the overwhelming support and generosity from our community was truly inspiring.

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         We also extend our gratitude to Fr. Ian Bustonera, AM, our dedicated organizer, and the entire AM Community for making this event possible. Your tireless efforts allowed us to come together as a family and bring joy to those in need.

          Music & Motion @ Montessori recently completed another successful fundraising cruise for Alagad ni Maria, dedicated to the Glory of God. The event was made possible by the hard work and dedication of the Core Group, which included the late teacher Cynthia (+), Sonny, Carmen, Esper, Milette, and Mimi. Their collective efforts ensured that the cruise was not only a fundraising success but also a joyful and memorable experience for all participants.

            A total of 32 attendees took part in the journey, bringing energy, happiness, and camaraderie throughout the trip. The cruise explored the breathtaking destinations of the Mexican Riviera, a region promoted for its coastal beauty, reminiscent of the French and Italian Riviera. The itinerary included stops at:

• Puerto Vallarta – A resort town on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, known for its picturesque beaches, vibrant water sports scene, and lively nightlife. Its cobblestone center features the historic Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe Church.

• Mazatlán – A renowned resort town along the Pacific shoreline in the state of Sinaloa, offering stunning beaches and a rich cultural experience.

• Cabo San Lucas – Referred to as the “Crown Jewel of Mexico,” this resort city at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula is famous for its pristine beaches, exciting water-based activities, and dynamic nightlife.

      The spiritual aspect of the journey was enriched by the presence of Father Ian, an Alagad ni Maria priest, who officiated Holy Masses for the attendees, providing them with guidance and reflection throughout the trip. 

       During Captain’s Night, participants proudly showcased Filipino culture, with women donning Filipiniana Tops and men wearing the traditional Barong Tagalog. Their attire captivated fellow cruise passengers, highlighting the beauty of Filipino heritage. Additionally, the M & M Dancers brought energy to the cruise, dancing at every opportunity and keeping spirits high throughout the voyage.

Despite the hot weather, attendees enthusiastically participated in excursions to Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, and Cabo San Lucas, capturing stunning photos and making lasting memories. Each evening, guests enjoyed exquisite sit-down dinners, savoring gourmet entrees and embracing the luxurious cruise experience.

         The fundraising cruise proved to be a remarkable adventure, demonstrating the power of community, faith, and shared experiences. Plans for another fundraising cruise in the near future are already being considered.

Congratulations to the M & M Family for a successful and well-organized event!