From Manila to Timor: The Journey of the Star of the Sea Postulancy English Program
- maristbrothers
- Aug 25
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 29
The Star of the Sea Postulancy English Program began in 2017, originally located in Davao, Philippines. By 2019, the program saw significant growth, with the number of Timorese postulants exceeding the available space and prompting changes to accommodate the expanding community. To address this, the Provincials of SoTS and Marist District Asia (MDA) decided that the Timorese would begin their English studies not in Davao, but at MAPAC in Manila, where Br Matthew Green, Formator, accompanied them. This arrangement became known as “Stage 1.” After six months, they would transfer to Davao to join the other postulants, since by then the “Stage 2” group would have moved on to begin their novitiate in Tudella, Sri Lanka.
Today, the program has grown from these humble beginnings. What follows is an account by Br Matthew of how the English Program has evolved over the past six years.
The Star of the Sea Postulancy English Program has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 2019-2020 at MAPAC in Manila. Originally designed as a face-to-face initiative, it began with three ability-level classes taught by our dedicated Filipino teachers: Erik Reamillo, Racel Jimenez, Cherrie Remoroza. Each weekday morning, postulants gathered for three hours of immersive English instruction.
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in early 2020, the program was quickly forced to adapt. Without access to computers, postulants would huddle around a single mobile phone to attend online classes - testament to their eagerness to learn. Our heartfelt thanks go to Erik, Racel, and Cherrie, whose creativity and professionalism kept the program alive through incredibly challenging circumstances.
By the end of 2020, the postulancy had relocated to Timor-Leste. With most foreign nationals having returned home due to the pandemic, local English teachers were few and far between. Once again, our Manila-based teachers rose to the occasion, continuing to teach online. This time, secondhand laptops were sourced for each postulant, internet access was upgraded as much as possible, and Zoom and Google Classroom accounts were created. English lessons resumed - albeit not always in traditional classrooms. With patchy internet, lessons took place on verandas, in dining rooms, dormitories, and even the chapel!
Fast forward four years: new laptops have been secured, the internet connection has significantly improved, and in 2025 the postulancy moved into a new residence in Triloka, complete with dedicated learning spaces. The program remains under the guidance of our original Manila teachers, who continue their committed service online.
In 2024, the team welcomed a new member: Laura, a Timorese graduate of our Teachers’ College in Baucau. Laura brings fresh energy to the program with in-person support and leadership of the SRA Reading Laboratory sessions each afternoon. (Yes, the classic SRA readers are still in use - and still as valuable as ever!) Br Paul Bailey also contributes twice a week, Zooming in to help postulants improve their pronunciation through guided reading.
Most recently, in 2025, the program expanded its reach beyond Timor-Leste, welcoming a candidate from Korea’s aspirancy program. This collaboration has enriched all involved, offering a valuable opportunity for intercultural exchange and deepening the spirit of international fraternity.
What began as a small classroom initiative in Manila has become a resilient, adaptive, and growing program - continuing to support the formation and education of our young men on their vocational journey. The Star of the Sea Postulancy English Program stands as a testament to the power of commitment, community, and creativity in mission.
Contributed by Br Matthew Green, Formator, Marist Postulancy, Triloka, Timor-Leste
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