On November 15, 2024, I had the immense blessing of being received into the Novitiate Formation of the Venerable Third Order of Carmelites (TOC) under the Philippine Province of St. Titus Brandsma, specifically through the local TOC Community of St. Teresa Margaret Redi in Makati City. As a distant member residing in Madrid, Spain, I was granted permission to celebrate the rites here, a grace that allowed me to be surrounded by my family and friends.

Being away from one’s local community brings its own share of challenges. At times, it is lonely and difficult, as the journey feels solitary. Yet, I am profoundly grateful for the unwavering prayers and filial support of my Carmelite family, even from thousands of miles away. Their spiritual solidarity reminds me that in this vocation, no one truly walks alone.

Our novitiate batch consisted of 13 members, with my batchmates receiving their rites on September 1, 2024, in the Philippines. Initially, as stated in the protonotary approving my application, the local council planned for my rites to take place upon my return to the Philippines. However, after prayerful discernment, I requested our local prior to allow the ceremony to be held here in Madrid. To my joy, he graciously approved, setting everything in motion for this special day.

The Journey of Preparation

Since moving to Madrid, I have attended Holy Mass at the Basilica Pontificia de San Miguel, a place where the liturgy is celebrated with reverence and solemnity. Administered by priests of Opus Dei, the basilica serves as the official church of the Papal Nuncio to Spain and Andorra. Its sacred atmosphere made it the perfect venue for my reception rites. I sought the Vice-Rector’s permission, and, as providence would have it, he granted my request, sharing fond memories of his time in the Philippines during the 1980s.

A newly ordained Filipino priest from Opus Dei, whom I had met at the basilica, generously agreed to preside over the Eucharistic celebration. For the Rite of Reception, a Carmelite friar from Indonesia, currently residing in Madrid for studies, officiated the ceremony. Every step of the planning process unfolded as though guided by God’s hand, and I was constantly reminded of His providence.

A Prayer for Music

One of my deepest desires for the occasion was to have sacred music that would elevate the liturgy. Having witnessed many “dry” Masses in Madrid—celebrations without hymns or music—I longed for a choir to sing beloved hymns, particularly the cherished Filipino song, “No Mas Amor que el Tuyo”.

I approached Musica Alborada, a distinguished orchestral group known for their performances at the basilica. They initially agreed but were unable to provide a proposal despite my repeated follow-ups. When they finally responded, their quoted fee of €700 to €2,000 was far beyond my modest budget. Saddened but trusting in God’s providence, I politely declined their offer, sought alternatives, and prayed fervently, asking the Lord to provide for this need.

Two days before the ceremony, I received an unexpected call from the group’s director. To my astonishment, he informed me that the group had decided to offer their services free of charge. With sincerity and generosity, he said:

“Será un placer estar a su lado en estos momentos. El Grupo Alborada se lo agradece con sus oraciones.”
(“It will be our pleasure to be by your side during this moment. Grupo Alborada asks only for your prayers in return.”)

Overwhelmed with gratitude, I could hardly believe it. I even offered to pay in installments, but the director kindly declined, reaffirming their desire to contribute out of goodwill. This act of kindness brought me to my knees in prayer, thanking the Lord for His abundant blessings. Truly, He works in mysterious ways, turning what seemed impossible into a testament of His providence.

A Day of Grace
Despite personal challenges at work leading up to the celebration, I entrusted everything to the Lord, confident in His plans. The day itself was filled with joy and profound grace. Not only was my prayer for sacred music answered, but I also had the privilege of involving my family in this significant moment of my spiritual journey.

The Filipino Community Chaplaincy in Madrid offered their support, and many Filipinos witnessed for the first time how laypeople, too, can embrace consecrated life through the Carmelites. It was a moment of evangelization, a testament to the universal call to holiness.

Reflections on Vocation
Many have asked if I still feel drawn to the priesthood. My mind often says “yes,” imagining the joy of administering the sacraments and serving God’s people in that capacity. Yet, my heart gently reminds me of the unique ways I can serve as a layman. For now, I trust in God’s will, knowing that His plans for me are far greater than my own.

I pray for perseverance in this vocation, trusting in the intercession of Our Lady of Mount Carmel as I journey toward holiness. May she continue to guide me and all those striving to live in the spirit of the Carmelite charism.