Everywhere: A journey of faith and connection

Back to the Roots Program

As participants in the “Back to the Roots” program of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (MSC), we have gathered to reflect on our transformative journey. This experience has been a deep exploration of faith, community, and the legacy of our founder, Jules Chevalier. Throughout our time together, we have seen how God makes all things possible, even with minimal preparation and limited resources. We have also felt the spirit of MSC brotherhood, the beauty of Rome’s sacred sites, and the power of connection that goes beyond language and culture.

God Makes It Possible. From the beginning, we recognised that our journey was guided by a divine hand. Despite the challenges caused by limited preparation, time, and resources, we experienced a strong sense of purpose and direction. Each day brought a sense of wonder as we faced opportunities for growth and learning that we hadn’t expected. God’s presence was clear in how we came together as a group, supporting one another and sharing insights. We learned that when we trust in God’s plan, He provides the means to complete our mission, regardless of our limitations. This realisation has strengthened our faith and encouraged us to face future challenges with confidence, knowing we are never alone in our efforts.

Significant Places in the Life of Jules Chevalier. The highlight of our journey was the chance to visit key places in Jules Chevalier’s life. Walking in the footsteps of our founder helped us connect with his vision and the values that still guide the MSC today. Each site we visited—whether it was his birthplace, places of ministry, or sites of historical importance—was filled with spirituality and history. These experiences made us reflect on Chevalier’s dedication to education, compassion, and social justice. We felt inspired by his commitment to serve the marginalised and share the love of the Sacred Heart. This journey was not just about learning from the past; it invited us to carry his mission into our lives and communities.

The Spirit of MSC Brotherhood. Throughout the program, the sense of brotherhood among our group was strong. Despite our different ages and formation batches, we came together with a shared goal—to learn, grow, and serve. This unity created an environment of support, where we could openly share our stories, insights, and challenges. The bonds we built went beyond age groups, reminding us that we are all part of a larger family bonded by our shared values of the Sacred Heart. We celebrated each other’s presence and support, offered comfort during our travels, and made memories that will last a lifetime. This experience reinforced that true community is built on love, respect, and a common mission.

Sacred and Holy Places in Rome. Our journey took us to some of the most sacred and holy places in Rome, each holding unique significance in the Catholic faith. Visiting these sites was a deeply spiritual experience that allowed us to connect with the rich history of the Church and the legacy of the saints. The beauty and reverence of these locations inspired moments of reflection and prayer, strengthening our relationship with God. In these sacred spaces, we felt a sense of awe and wonder, as if we were standing on holy ground. The opportunity to pray in the presence of such profound history was a reminder of the continuity of faith through the ages. It encouraged us to reflect on our own spiritual journeys and the importance of nurturing our relationship with God amidst life’s challenges.

Language is Not a Barrier. Entering the program with different levels of proficiency in various languages, we initially felt nervous about our ability to communicate effectively. However, we soon realised that language is not the only way to connect. Our shared experiences, gestures, and acts of kindness went beyond any linguistic barriers. The presence of the MSC elder Fathers, especially those who had served in the Philippines, demonstrated this beautifully. Their warm smiles, gentle encouragement, and willingness to share their stories created an environment of understanding and acceptance. Through their stories, we learned about the rich history of the MSC’s work in the Philippines, and we were inspired by their dedication to serving local communities. This experience showed us that communication comes from the heart. Even without words, we can express love, compassion, and understanding. This realisation has encouraged us to appreciate the beauty of different ways to connect with others.

The Presence of Unexpected People. Throughout our journey, we met unexpected people who made our experience not only easier but also more meaningful. Their presence enriched our travels. Each person we encountered offered unique perspectives and stories that showed how God sends people to help us on our way. These encounters reminded us of the importance of being open and receptive to the people we meet. Every individual had a part to play in our collective experience, and their kindness and generosity left a lasting impression on us. We learned that the journey is often shaped by the connections we make, and these unexpected relationships can lead to deep moments of growth and understanding.

Conclusion. A Journey of Faith and Connection. As we reflect on our experiences in the “Back to the Roots” program, we are grateful for the lessons learned and the connections made. We have come to value the importance of Jules Chevalier’s legacy, the spirit of MSC brotherhood, and the power of communication that goes beyond language. The heartfelt stories shared by the elder MSC Fathers and the presence of unexpected individuals have enriched our journey and strengthened our commitment to the values of the Sacred Heart. This experience has motivated us to carry on the mission of the MSC in our own lives, embracing the call to serve, to love, and to connect with others. We are reminded that we are all part of a larger tapestry woven together by our shared humanity, and it is through these bonds that we can truly make a difference in the world. As we continue our journey, we carry with us the lessons of faith, compassion, and brotherhood learned through this remarkable program.

Benjie Balsamo, MSC / Ariel Galido, MSC / Gabriel Galido, MSC / Rudy Ibale, MSC / Samuel Patriarca, MSC