From October 7 to 15, 2025, the atmosphere at St. Aloysius Gonzaga Parish, Cijantung, felt different. Each evening, parishioners came with hopeful steps, bringing their prayer intentions and open hearts. Yes, it was the Novena to Saint Gerard Majella—a humble brother who became a friend to everyone, especially mothers and those who struggle in life.
This year’s novena felt extra special as it marked the 300th anniversary of the birth of Saint Gerard. The chosen theme was beautifully fitting: “Brother, Friend, and Missionary of the Gospel.” It was more than just words on a flyer—it came alive through nine meaningful nights of prayer and reflection.
Each night, the faithful were invited to discover a different face of Gerard’s love: Gerard, Brother in Faith; Gerard, Friend of the Poor; Gerard, Helper in Fragility; and Gerard, Bearer of Hope.
From night to night, the story and example of Saint Gerard flowed gently through prayers, hymns, and meditations.
The most touching moment was, of course, the prayer itself. In front of the image and relic of Saint Gerard, expectant mothers prayed quietly and sincerely, couples longing for a child gazed at the candles with teary eyes, and many others poured out their hearts in prayer. All came with steadfast faith—believing that God truly listens through the intercession of Saint Gerard.
The celebration reached its peak on October 16, 2025, with the Feast of Saint Gerard Majella. The Mass began with a solemn procession of Saint Gerard’s image, accompanied by songs and prayers that filled the church. The Eucharist was presided over by Fr. Roby Ndajang, CSsR, and concelebrated by Fr. Rian Dimu, CSsR, and Fr. Willy, CSsR.
In his homily, Fr. Roby reminded the faithful saying, “The miracles that happened in Saint Gerard’s life,” he said, “did not come from the magic of his handkerchief, but from deep faith in God’s unfailing help.” He continued, “Let us pray that we too may have faith like Saint Gerard—faith that loves God with unending longing.”
After the Mass, parishioners greeted one another with joy. Their faces reflected peace and gratitude—an inner warmth that words could hardly describe. It felt as if everyone who came that night brought home a small spark of Saint Gerard’s spirit: humble, joyful, and full of unwavering trust.
Inspired by this beautiful experience, the parish decided to continue the devotion by holding the Novena to Saint Gerard every first Tuesday of the month, beginning in November. Each novena will conclude with Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction, offering a moment to renew one’s faith and entrust life once more to God.
And so…
Those nine nights with Saint Gerard turned out to be more than just a series of prayers. They became a journey of faith, a time for the faithful to rediscover hope, faithfulness, and simple love. In Cijantung, the story of a humble redemptorist brother from Italy lives on—continuing to inspire miracles in the hearts of all who believe.
Fr. Willy Ng Pala, CSsR.
