On July 27, 2025, the Teresian Association (TA) in Iloilo (Philippines) marked the commemoration of Saint Pedro Poveda’s Martyrdom with a heartfelt gathering at the Josefa Segovia Student Center, Iloilo City joined by family, friends, and members of the community.
The morning session was attended by a good number of participants, beginning with revisiting of the life and legacy of Fr. Pedro Poveda. Ms. Elsie Sebastian led the session, sharing insights on who Fr. Poveda is to the Teresian Association—not only as a founder but also as a witness of faith and courage in a challenging time.
Prayer, an essential part of daily life
The session was followed by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist with Rev. Fr. Reynard Tubid as the celebrant. In his homily, Fr. Tubid focused on the vital role of prayer in the Christian life, echoing the Gospel: “How much more will your Father in heaven…”
He highlighted that Fr. Poveda’s martyrdom was not an act of spontaneous bravery but a grace-filled response born from a deep, consistent prayer life. Fr. Tubid also challenged those who are present to make prayer as an essential part of daily life, stressing that it is in prayer where we grow in our relationship with the Father —and where courage and conviction to live one’s faith take root. Without prayer, he noted, one cannot truly stand firm in faith —let alone give their life for it.
Encuentro Povedano with young people
In the afternoon, young people gathered for Encuentro Povedano —an experience of faith-sharing and reflection inspired by the life of Saint Pedro Poveda. Far from being a mere historical retelling, the activity helped the youth connect personally with different aspects of Fr. Poveda’s journey —his early sense of vocation, his struggles, and his courageous witness.
Through guided prompts and group sharing, the youth —almost 30 participants from different parts of Panay and Guimaras Islands aged 12 to 23, including students and young professionals —reflected on their own callings, present challenges, and how they are being invited to stand up for their faith in this present moment of history.
In the spirit of Fr. Poveda’s words “To believe firmly and to keep silent is not possible,” the gathering became a living testimony of a faith that is young, hopeful, and ready to shine.
TA-Iloilo.
Published in News