26/08/2026
“Passeremo il mare.” “We will cross the sea.”
On August 26, 1915, five Oblates of St. Joseph—Fr. Giuseppe Anfossi, Fr. Ernesto Fornaca, Fr. Eugenio Gherlone, Bro. Giuseppe Maccagno, and Bro. Giovanni Battista Camera—arrived in San Jose, Batangas. Amid the joyful ringing of church bells, the first OSJ mission in the Philippines was born.
Their arrival was more than a historic event. It was the fulfillment of a prophetic faith. Years earlier, Bro. Giuseppe Maccagno had said, “Passeremo il mare” (One day, we will cross the sea.”) They left the familiar, crossed vast oceans, and trusted that God was leading them to the mission where they will perfect their charity.
Today, as the Oblates of St. Joseph Philippine Province celebrate 111 years, we are the living fruit of that courageous “yes.” We carry the same mission, charism, and trust in Divine Providence.
The sea they crossed now challenges us to cross our own seas, our fears, limitations, comforts, and uncertainties. Their courage reminds us that the mission must not only be remembered but it must also be continued.
Their journey began with five. Today, the mission continues through us.
“Passeremo il mare!” We will cross the sea—not because the way is easy, but because Christ goes before us. With the faithful and humble heart of St. Joseph, wherever God sends us, we will go; wherever souls need us, we will serve; and wherever the mission calls, we will answer with courage, fidelity, and love.
The pioneers crossed the sea for us. Now, strengthened by their example, let us cross whatever sea lies before us and carry the OSJ mission farther than we ever imagined.
via
Rev. Fr. Aldrich Gamboa, OSJ
Rev. Fr. Rony Alkonga, OSJ
