In 1982, the Congregation received an invitation to come and minister in the Philippines. The Oblates of St. Joseph Fathers, serving in the Metro Manila area, asked our Congregation to visit the Philippines and consider establishing a house there.

Twenty-five years later, Nazareth has realized some 50 native vocations, in every stage of formation. They minister on three islands, Manila, Bohol, and Oriental Mindoro, in a variety of ways, meeting the needs of the people. In Manila, the sisters work with Beginning Ecclesial Communities, administer and teach on the elementary and university level, care for homeless boys, serve in hospitals as nurses, and work in parish and hospital ministry. Through the generosity of many of our own sisters and friends of the Congregation, we have built a school in Tubigon on Bohol, and administer and teach in Holy Family of Nazareth School. On the island of Oriental Mindoro, our sisters work in the Provincial Hospital, in pastoral ministry.

This past December, our Sisters in the Philippines celebrated the Silver Anniversary of their founding. Also, the Mary of Nazareth Region was named as Mary of Nazareth Province. With this change in status, a new Provincial Administration of Sisters was named to serve. (See "Someone You Should Know")

Vocations are still coming, and a good number of these young sisters are currently still pursuing their degrees in higher education. Progress in this area continues slowly with the generosity of friends and benefactors. But these Sisters are eager to minister in whatever ways they are able to meet the many needs of the people.

Dividing up the pesos in a way as to meet all their needs is a great challenge for the leadership, which is now carrying out a much-needed renovation and expansion of the provincial home. Again – a slow and costly process.

In speaking with many of our families and friends, we know that you are willing to help with this project. We have asked S. Maria Fe Mata, the Provincial Superior in the Philippines, to give us some ideas as to what they need, and the costs. A "Wish List" of items needed for the new dwelling is found below. If you are able, and if you are willing, S. Maria Fe and the Sisters in the Philippines would be most grateful for your help. You may send your gift in the form of a check to the address as listed on the Wish List. May our Lord reward your kindness, and be assured of the prayers of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth.