Angelino Yakobus Tuas, cicm
Sometimes, life’s most meaningful journeys begin when we are least prepared, leading us into unfamiliar situations that test our courage and faith. Reflecting on my own journey, I see how true this has been for me, and how God continues to surprise me with unexpected experiences.
When I arrived in the Philippines after completing my philosophy studies, I was filled with both excitement and uncertainty about what awaited me. Stepping off the plane on June 25, 2023, I was struck by the humid air and the unfamiliar surroundings, and I couldn’t help but wonder, “Am I ready for this?” Along with my classmates from Indonesia, I was sent straight to the Novitiate, skipping the usual English language program. This made me anxious and doubtful about my ability to follow the program, especially since I was not yet fluent in English. However, I gradually realized that such feelings are normal when facing something new. Though adapting was not easy, I began to recognize how God was gently guiding me through my fears.
As I embarked on my journey in the Novitiate, my initial anxiety slowly transformed into a period of profound discovery. The year of Novitiate became a profoundly transformative experience, allowing me to understand myself more deeply and to clarify my vocation. It was a time of spiritual growth and vocational discernment, preparing me for the total commitment to God that would later be expressed through my public consecration. Living in a multicultural community initially challenged me, yet it also revealed the beauty of fraternity, care for one another, and learning from our differences. Through this experience, I realized the richness of community life and how it shapes us. I knew that differences would always exist, but when approached with understanding and compassion, they can be joyfully embraced as part of our shared life in Christ
As time went on, I discovered that the spirituality I developed in the Novitiate became a strong foundation for my religious life. Studying and meditating on the Congregation’s Constitutions deepened my understanding of its spirit and charism, allowing them to take root in my heart. I came to see that this growth was not solely the result of my efforts, but rather the grace of God working through the guidance of my beloved Director of Novices and his Socius. Their patience, wisdom, and example helped me appreciate the beauty of religious and missionary life and the whole meaning of living entirely for God. Looking back, my Novitiate year seems to have passed quickly, yet it was filled with grace and blessings that continue to shape my heart. The words of Scripture that have deeply touched me, “Place all your worries on Him, since He takes care of you” (1 Peter 5:7), have truly become a reality in my life and continue to strengthen my faith. In the end, my journey reminds me that God’s plans often unfold in ways we least expect.
From the uncertainty of my arrival in the Philippines to the grace-filled completion of the Novitiate, I have learned to trust more deeply in His providence. With gratitude and faith, I now look ahead with hope, ready to embrace the next chapter of my journey with the same trust that has guided me thus far.
As I move forward into the next phase of my formation, continuing my theological studies, I see this new stage not merely as an academic pursuit but as a continuation of my spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral development. Theology opens both my mind and heart to a deeper understanding of God, the Church, and the mission to which I am called. Each subject I study prepares me to apply my learning in future pastoral and missionary service. From the very beginning, I was given the opportunity to engage in apostolate every weekend, directly involving myself in parish activities. While this experience has been enriching, it also brought new challenges. In my first apostolic residence, I lived with a family, an experience that brought both joy and learning. Communicating with them required me to learn Tagalog, their primary language, which was difficult at first. However, this became an invitation to grow, motivating me to know so that we could truly understand one another. Through this encounter, I realized that if I open myself to being shaped by this situation, I can find deep meaning.
Reflecting on my journey so far, I recognize that every step, challenge, and joy has been part of God’s loving plan for me. I have learned that faith is not about having all the answers, but about trusting God—even when the path is unclear. Like the disciples who left everything to follow Jesus, I am called each day to say “yes” again to His invitation. This journey has taught me to rely on God’s grace rather than my own strength, and to remember that His love never fails. I hold close the words of Jesus: “Do not be afraid, for I am with you always.” (Matthew 28:20).
