Eleven Young Men from Timor-Leste & Solomon Islands Begin Their Novitiate Journey at MAPAC, Manila

The Marist formation community at Marist Asia Pacific Centre (MAPAC), Manila, recently welcomed eleven young men who have begun their Novitiate journey following the successful completion of their postulancy program in Timor-Leste.

The group with Gabriel from South Korea (East Asia Province) who is also commencing his novitiate

Following a period with their families and home communities after the conclusion of the postulancy program, the eight Timorese candidates - Agio Ena, Alarico Amaral, Angelo Belo, Angelo Soares, Armando Nini, Deolindo Freitas, Jeremias Falo, and Diogo Da Costa - arrived at the MAPAC Novitiate in Manila on 31 May 2026. They travelled from Dili via Singapore, accompanied by Brothers Matthew Green and Raphael Fakaia.

Joining them on the same day were the three Solomon Islands candidates - Amos Vutu, Bernard Ramo, and Randolf Muriatu. Travelling together from Honiara via Port Moresby, they enjoyed an overnight stay with the Marist Brothers’ community in Papua New Guinea, before continuing their journey to the Philippines.

Timorese postulants departing Dili airport on May 31

Their arrival marks the beginning of a new and significant stage of Marist formation. The Novitiate is a privileged time of deeper discernment, prayer, community life, and spiritual growth as these young men seek to know more fully the Marist vocation and God’s call in their lives. During the coming year they will be invited to deepen their relationship with Christ, grow in the spirit of Mary, and embrace more fully the values and mission of the Marist Institute.

Amos (Centre). Kneeing in front of him is postulant Randolf, and to the right of Amos is postulant Bernard. Augustine Parasaia (in yellow shirt) and Gideon Baura (with cap) are Aspirants.

We give thanks to God for bringing them safely to Manila and for the generous support of their families throughout their vocational journey. As they begin this important time of formation, we entrust them to the care of Mary, our Good Mother, praying that she may accompany them as they continue to listen, discern, and respond generously to God’s call.

Novitiates with Br Matthew Green navigating new technologies in Singapore airport to check in for flight to Manila

Brothers Raphael Fakaia and Matthew Green

Formators