My Montfortian Regional Conference (MRC) Experience in the Philippines

By Gretchel Flores Orbeta

The Montfortian Regional Conference was held in the Carmelite Missionaries Center of Spirituality from 1- 4 July 2026. The theme was "Journeying As One: Our Shared Mission as Missionary Disciples." Our distinguished speaker was Bishop Rozario Menezes, SMM.

The objective of the Montfortian Regional Conference 2026 is to move the Montfortian family from shared reflection to coordinated action by strengthening unity across congregations, deepening Montfortian spirituality, and committing collectively to missionary service beyond boundaries, so as to form a more integrated, spiritually rooted, and mission-driven “One Montfortian Family” living out its call as missionary disciples without borders.

I was honoured to attend the Montfortian Regional Conference in the Philippines as a delegate representing Singapore. The conference brought together Montfortians from across the region to learn from one another, share our experiences, and strengthen our mission and friendship as one Montfortian family.

From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed with the Filipino spirit of 'Mabuhay; which means 'Welcome' or 'Long live!

| 1 July 26 | Visit to La Sagesse (Day 1/4)

Our first stop was La Sagesse Rehabilitation and Development Center, where we received a warm welcome from the students and teachers through cultural and dance performances. We also had the opportunity to learn more about the school and its facilities.

The visit showed us how the school provides a safe, caring, and supportive environment for children, focusing on both their education and well-being. Overall, it was an inspiring and meaningful experience.

| 2 July 26 | Morning Prayer and Mass (Day 2/4)

Before we began each day, we gathered for Morning Mass and prayer in the Carmelite Missionaries Center of Spirituality. It was a beautiful reminder to begin everything with God, giving thanks for the opportunity to be together and for all that He made possible throughout the conference. One morning, despite setting an alarm, I didn't wake up to it.

Yet, by God's grace, I woke up in time and arrived just as Mass was beginning. Looking back, I felt that God was reminding me to trust Him. Perhaps I needed the extra rest, and He still made a way for me to be present where I needed to be. It was a gentle lesson that God cares for us in both the big and small moments of our lives, and it filled my heart with gratitude as I began the day.

| 2 July 26 | Introduction of Each Delegate (Day 2/4)

We began the conference by introducing ourselves, with each delegation proudly representing their respective countries. It was a meaningful experience to see everyone share their culture, identity, and heritage. Although we came from different countries and backgrounds, we were united by a sense of respect, friendship, and appreciation for one another.

One memorable moment was during the introductions. I first stood with the Philippine delegation, reflecting my Filipino roots, and later with the Singapore delegation, whom I was representing at the conference, as Singapore is where I was born, raised, and now serve.

Although I found myself connected to two countries, the experience reminded me that we all came together as one family. Despite our different cultures, backgrounds, and nationalities. We journeyed as one, living out the conference theme of unity through our shared Montfortian spirit of faith, service, and mission.

| 2 - 3 July 26 | My Journey as a Scribe for Workshop C

I was assigned as the scribe for Workshop C, working with two different groups over the two days. My role was to support my team by documenting and gathering the key points shared during the discussions, especially since we could not rely on an internet connection.

At the beginning, it was quite challenging to keep track of the reflection questions shown on the slides. Then my team projected their PowerPoint presentation, and I felt that God inspired me with the idea of typing the reflection questions onto the slides so everyone could easily follow along while I recorded each group's responses.

It was a meaningful and enriching experience to witness the reflections shared throughout the workshop. I am grateful to have played a small part in documenting the conversations and supporting my team. Thank You, Lord, for guiding me throughout this journey.

| 3 July 26 | Montfestival (Day 3/4)

One of the highlights of the conference was the Montfestival, where each region prepared a performance to celebrate its culture and identity. It was such a joy to witness the different styles of dance, music, and traditional attire that each delegation proudly shared.

I also had the opportunity to meet the novices, whose enthusiasm and presence added to the celebration. Watching everyone perform with such pride reminded me that while our cultures and traditions may be different, they all tell a unique story. It was a beautiful evening that celebrated diversity, strengthened our bonds, and reflected the Montfortian spirit of unity.

| 3 July 26 | Singapore delegate's Performance for Montfestival (Day 3/4)

As for us, we chose to sing Count on Me, Singapore. To reflect the spirit of the conference, we changed the final lyrics from “Singapore” to “Montfortians” to make everyone feel included and united. It was a simple but meaningful way to remind us that, although we come from different countries and backgrounds, we are all part of one Montfortian family.

Carmelite Missionaries Center of Spirituality

Minor Basilica and Parish of St. Martin of Tours

| 4 July 26 | Wrapping up with dinner at Eduardo's Restaurant (4/4)

We wrapped up the day with dinner at Eduardo's Restaurant before everyone headed back to their respective communities and homes.

Above all, I am deeply grateful to God for this memorable MRC experience - for the people I met, the moments we shared, the lessons learned, and the memories that I will carry with me. It was truly a meaningful journey, and one that I will always look back on with gratitude.