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Moving with Migrants in Europe on the Mission of Hope: SVD Chaplains Gather in Berlin to Chart a Renewed Pastoral Journey
Simon Boiser, SVD
Organized by the SVD Filipino Chaplaincy in Berlin, the assembly drew delegates from ten countries including Italy, Spain, Portugal, Austria, Hungary, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and several cities in Germany. The event combined pastoral reports, data mapping, theological inputs, and collaborative planning—all rooted in listening and discernment.
Listening to Voices from the Field
The gathering began on Tuesday, June 3, with an outing and lunch in the historic city of Potsdam, followed by Mass and supper with the local SVD community. The opening session featured pastoral reports from Fr. Jovs Osalvo (Portugal), Fr. Gerry Paat (Spain), Fr. Julipros Dolotallas (Switzerland), Fr. Ron Sandoval (Austria), and Fr. Elmer Hernandez (Hungary). These reports highlighted the struggles and hopes of Filipino migrants—many facing isolation, cultural tension, or uncertain legal status, yet supported by vibrant faith communities.
Seeing and Discerning
Wednesday began with additional reports from Fr. Elmer Paulino Bumanglag (Italy), Fr. Gilbert Razon (Netherlands), and German-based chaplains: Fr. Rodel Liguid (Cologne), Fr. Ritchelle Salinas (Hamburg), Fr. Jonas Piodo (Munich), and Fr. Simon Boiser (Berlin). Their experiences revealed the urgent need for lay leadership training, youth engagement, spiritual accompaniment, and better access to sacraments.
Later that morning, a presentation of findings from a chaplains’ survey and the General Chapters of 2018 and 2024 offered a broader perspective on migrant pastoral realities. Group discussions followed, inviting participants to reflect on the deeper challenges and signs of hope emerging across Europe.
In the afternoon, Mr. Sebastian Schewerfeger, Coordinator for Migrants in the Archdiocese of Berlin, presented current EU migration trends. Fr. Simon Boiser complemented this with an overview of Church documents and European policy frameworks on migration.
Chaplains were then invited to imagine new responses. In a workshop led by Fr. Jerome Marquez, participants reflected on the question: “What do Filipino migrants truly need and dream of?” Small groups began to design pilot projects on topics such as digital outreach, lay formation, youth ministry, mental health, and sacramental access.
That evening, the group celebrated a Filipino Mass presided over by Fr. Jerome Marquez, joined by members of the Philippine community in Berlin, followed by a shared supper that strengthened bonds between chaplains and the people they serve. The day ended with a visit to the grave of Fr. Adonis Narcelles, SVD, a pioneer in Filipino migrant ministry in Europe, and a time of joyful fellowship among confreres.
Planning the Path Forward
Thursday, June 5, was dedicated to strategic planning. Drawing from the previous days’ reflections, the chaplains drafted a Common Pastoral Roadmap (2025–2027)—outlining priorities, leadership assignments, and timelines to enhance migrant pastoral care in Europe.
In the afternoon, participants visited the German Parliament (Reichstag) for lunch and reflection at its rooftop restaurant, followed by a walking tour of Berlin’s key landmarks, including the Brandenburg Gate, Holocaust Memorial, and St. Hedwig’s Cathedral. The day closed with dinner at Hofbräu Wirtshaus with members of the Philippine pastoral team, celebrating the shared mission.
Going Forth with Renewed Commitment
The final day, Friday, June 6, included a visit to Wittenberg, the city of Martin Luther. There, the chaplains contemplated the Church’s ongoing call to reform, accompany, and renew. The pilgrimage served as a symbolic conclusion to the assembly’s themes of listening, unity, and mission.
Participants included Frs. Jerome Marquez (Rome), Elmer Hernandez (Hungary), Gilbert Razon (Netherlands), Elmer Paulino Bumanglag (Italy), Jovs Osalvo (Portugal), Gerry Paat (Spain), Julipros Dolotallas (Switzerland), Ron Sandoval (Austria), and German-based chaplains Frs. Rodel Liguid, Jonas Piodo, Ritchelle Salinas, and Simon Boiser.
As one participant shared, “We may be scattered across Europe, but this meeting reminds us that the Spirit unites us in one mission of hope.”
Returning to their ministries with strengthened fellowship and a clear pastoral roadmap, the chaplains continue their journey—walking with migrants in the name of Christ.
