Pilgrimage of hope: IFFAsia empowers young missionaries to transform Asian communities

On November 23, 2024, the Good Shepherd Cathedral in Novaliches resonated with messages of faith, mission, and hope as Bishop Joel Zamudio Baylon of the Diocese of Legazpi inspired 12 young leaders graduating from the Institute of Formation Fondacio Asia (IFFAsia).

Joined by Bishop Henry Mhan Eiklhein of the Diocese of Pathein, Myanmar, and other clergy and deacons, the celebration marked the culmination of an 11-month transformative formation program.

The graduates—nine from Laos and three from Myanmar—completed intensive training in leadership, spiritual formation, and community service.

The program focused on strengthening their personal relationship with Jesus Christ and preparing them to become missionaries of hope in their respective communities.

In his homily, Bishop Baylon delivered a powerful exhortation, urging the graduates to embrace Christ as the King of their lives. “This pilgrimage is not about material success, wealth, or fame but a deeper search for God and the fullness of life He invites us to embrace,” the bishop said, echoing Pope Francis’ call for a “Pilgrimage of Hope.”

He acknowledged that the journey would include "desert moments" of failure, rejection, and dryness but emphasized the importance of perseverance, gratitude, and faith in overcoming challenges.

Florence Alexius, Director of IFFAsia, emphasized the program's role in shaping future leaders.

“IFFAsia’s 11-month program prepares young lay leaders from Asia with spiritual, pastoral, and leadership skills, empowering them to renew their faith and serve as agents of change,” Alexius said.

This year’s program embraced the theme, “Hope is Here, Speak Out, Stand Out,” equipping graduates with the confidence to return to their countries as beacons of faith and inspiration.

The celebration concluded with a Fellowship Program, where gratitude was extended to the IFFAsia team, Fondacio Philippines community, foster families, resource persons, and supporters who contributed to the success of the formation program.

Founded in 2006 in Quezon City, Philippines, IFFAsia is a discipleship-mission school dedicated to nurturing young adults, professionals, and lay leaders across Asia.

Its holistic 11-month program integrates spiritual, personal, and leadership development, preparing participants to become agents of renewal within the Church and society.

Through its mission of fostering community and missionary spirituality, IFFAsia envisions a renewed Asian Church and society, driven by leaders rooted in faith and equipped to serve others.

Now based at the Radio Veritas Asia complex in Fairview, Quezon City, IFFAsia continues to form future disciples and missionaries committed to making a meaningful impact.

As the new graduates set out on their mission, Bishop Baylon reminded them to approach their journey as pilgrims, not tourists.

“Unlike tourists, pilgrims are called to appreciate God’s creation with gratitude, live with purpose, and keep their eyes fixed on their destination. This journey of hope leads to the fulfillment of joy in Christ,” he said.

The commissioning of these young missionaries reflects IFFAsia’s enduring commitment to its vision: forming leaders of faith and hope, equipped to transform communities and bring Christ’s love to the peripheries of society.