Seniors Reignite Their Mission at 2025 CFC National Conference in Iloilo
By Thelma Hizon
“There is still joy and purpose in our young-at-heart years,” said Iloilo Provincial Head George Miravite, in welcoming more than 1,200+ senior members of Couples for Christ (CFC), Handmaids of the Lord (HOLD), and Servants of the Lord (SOLD) for the 2025 Seniors National Conference themed “Rejoice! The Best Is Yet To Come!”
Delegates representing 50 Philippine provinces, 12 Metro Manila sectors, and five international territories—including the USA, Guam, Australia, Canada, and Malaysia (Sabah)—participated in the five-day event from February 28 to March 1 at the West Visayas State University in Iloilo City.
The Panayana Cultural Group and Irong Irong Dance Company led a colorful dance and song performance to highlight local Iloilo culture. Bboy Arguelles, member of the CFC International Council and Family is a Gift overseer, emphasized how the pastoral mission of the Seniors Program, being structured under Family is a Gift, needed renewed vigor from senior members in light of their Galilee Conference experiences. “Continue to communicate hope,” he said, “and keep on hoping, signify hope, and share hope with others.”
The first session entitled “Coming Home to Galilee” was given by CFC Chairman/President Joe Yamamoto, which invited delegates to reminisce and reflect on their foundational encounters with Christ in the “good old CFC days”. Toffee Jeturian, Mission Head of the Americas, shares his experiences in continuing to say ‘yes’ to God’s will through the years. “Without the Lord,” he shared, “life loses its true purpose. His love sustains me, His grace leads me, and His promises never fail. So let’s continue to walk in faith, surrendering to His divine plan, because with Him, our journey is always filled with hope and purpose.”
Rouquel Ponte, SOLD International Coordinator, followed with the second session “Hearts Burning for the Risen Lord,” drawing from the Emmaus story to stir a deep remembrance of transformation from their first Galilee experience. “Just like Thomas,” he said, “the experience of Christ’s burning love is needed for them to continue the work which CFC has commissioned its members to do so— to make disciples of all nations.”
Lito Tayag, a member of the CFC International Council, delivered the third session “The Galilee of Seniors,” recognizing the enduring faith of long-time members and encouraging healing and empowerment. “You are not forgotten,” he said. “You are still needed. Jesus is calling you back to Galilee. So do not be afraid. Return to your Galilee— and there, you will see Jesus, waiting for you with open arms, ready to strengthen and renew you for the journey ahead.”
Concluding the first day, George Campos of the Evangelization and Mission Group urged seniors to embrace Pope John Paul II’s wisdom in his October 1999 ‘Letter to the Elderly’ to continue the work despite the challenges faced by aging Seniors. “Our victories, he said, “don’t begin with and aren’t limited to our own abilities or resources, but with God’s power and wisdom working through us. Our focus is on strengthening our faith that taps into God’s infinite strength.” He then challenged the Seniors to respond to Pope Francis’ call to action in his Apostolic Exhortation Pope Francis’ exhortation in ‘Evangelii Gaudium,’ rallying them with the theme: “Rejoice! Go! The Best is Yet to Come.”
Personal testimonies throughout the conference, such as the inspiring service legacy of Nonoy de Leon’s family, anchored the messages with lived experience. The event concluded with a Eucharistic celebration led by His Excellency Jose Romeo O. Lazo, outgoing Archbishop of Jaro. “Like in the Wedding at Cana,” Archbishop Lazaro said, “the best wine was served last. The same in our lives: the best is yet to come.”
As the conference ended, the CFC Seniors reaffirmed their commitment to live out and proclaim God’s extravagant, awesome, and unconditional love—faithfully serving in His vineyard for as long as they are called. With hearts full of anticipation, it was also announced that the next Seniors National Conference will be held in Legazpi City, Albay, in February 2026.
UGNAYAN News Online