Thanksgiving and Send-Off for Fr. Jun-G Bargayo, SJ: A Celebration of Mission, Community, and Gratitude

On January 7, 2026 , the PJPS community gathered at St. Peregrine Laziosi  for a heartfelt Thanksgiving and Send-Off Program  in honor of Fr. Jun-G Bargayo, SJ . A moment marked by prayer, gratitude, memories, and deep appreciation for a mission shared. The celebration began with a Holy Mass , grounding the evening in thanksgiving for Fr. Jun-G’s years of faithful service in the prison ministry. This was followed by a warm potluck dinner , a simple yet meaningful expression of community. One that Fr. Jun-G himself has always nurtured among staff, volunteers, partners, and friends. A highlight of the evening was the Honoring and Tributes  offered by key stakeholders who journeyed with Fr. Jun-G through the years. Messages of gratitude and reflection were shared by Dr. Resurrecion Morales , Chair of the Board of Trustees; Gene Alolosan , PJPS Staff; Djarna Pestaño , PJPS Volunteer; CTSO3 Sonny Pesa , partner; Rod Velez , Mennen Aracid , and Philip Gan , PJPS Volunteer and Board Member. Each tribute spoke of leadership rooted in compassion, quiet dedication, and genuine accompaniment. An AVP and slideshow  followed, capturing Fr. Jun-G’s mission work in and out of the camps, retreats with Persons Deprived of Liberty, and the many “behind-the-scenes” moments that often go unseen but are deeply felt. Laughter, tears, and grateful silence filled the room as memories unfolded on screen. As a symbol of collective love and gratitude, the community presented a shared gift . A small token representing countless lives touched by Fr. Jun-G’s presence and service. In his response message , Fr. Jun-G expressed heartfelt thanks, reminding everyone that mission is always shared, never carried alone. The evening concluded with a closing blessing and traveler’s blessing , led by Fr. Bok and PJPS MusiKalayaan , sending Fr. Jun-G forth with prayers for protection, grace, and continued service wherever he is called next. We thank everyone who has been part of Fr. Jun-G’s journey with PJPS. As we send him off, we hold on to this truth: it is not a goodbye, but a “see you later.”