A Homecoming of Grace: A Thanksgiving Mass Filled with Hope at Our Lady of Grace Chapel

June 17, 2026, became a beautiful reminder that God's call continues to unfold in places where hope quietly takes root. Inside the Our Lady of Grace Chapel at the Reception and Diagnostic Center of the New Bilibid Prison, hearts gathered in gratitude as Fr. James Santos, SJ celebrated his Thanksgiving Mass with the Persons Deprived of Liberty, prison personnel, and members of the Philippine Jesuit Prison Service Foundation, Inc.

For Fr. James, this celebration was more than his first Thanksgiving Mass inside the RDC as a newly ordained Jesuit priest. It was a heartfelt homecoming.

During his homily, he shared the joy of returning to a community that had already become part of his vocation. The last time he stood inside the RDC, he was still a deacon. He fondly recalled the days he spent serving during the Holy Mass, listening to stories, singing with the Persons Deprived of Liberty, and simply accompanying them through moments of prayer and friendship.

Now, he returned not as a deacon but as a priest, carrying with him the same heart for service and the same desire to walk with those often forgotten by society.

His journey reminds us that every act of presence, every shared conversation, and every prayer offered with sincerity becomes part of God's greater plan. What once began as faithful accompaniment has blossomed into a deeper ministry of bringing Christ's love and mercy to those behind prison walls.

The celebration became even more meaningful as Fr. James was joined by Aimanne Nicolas, who faithfully accompanied him during prison visits while he was still a deacon. Also present was Roselle Nero, Socio Pastoral Coordinator, whose continuing commitment strengthens the pastoral mission inside the prison community. An Australian brother also blessed everyone with his presence as he is on mission in the Philippines. They were warmly assisted by CO1 Myranet Lozendo, Moral and Spiritual Officer of NBP RDC, whose support helps make moments of faith and healing possible.

Together, they witnessed that ministry is never a journey walked alone. It is built through collaboration, shared faith, and the willingness of many hearts to become instruments of God's compassion.

Inside prison walls, hope continues to flourish. Every Mass celebrated, every prayer offered, every story heard, and every hand extended in service becomes a reminder that human dignity can never be taken away. God's love reaches every person, and His invitation to renewal remains open to all.

As we celebrate this grace-filled homecoming, we also thank everyone who continues to believe in the mission of accompanying Persons Deprived of Liberty. Your generosity allows moments like these to happen. Through your support, lives are touched, faith is strengthened, and hope continues to shine where it is needed most.

Together, let us continue building communities of compassion, restoring dignity, and bringing God's love to places that long for healing.

Donate Now!

Every gift becomes a bridge of hope. Your generosity helps sustain pastoral care, spiritual formation, and programs that nurture healing and transformation among Persons Deprived of Liberty.

#PJPS #AMDG