Three Milestones, One Heart: Celebrating 175 Years of the Congregation, 30 Years in Taiwan, & Perpetual Profession!
On July 20, 2024, the Congregation of the Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary, commonly known as the Claretian Missionaries, celebrated its 175th anniversary as a congregation and the 30th anniversary of their arrival in Taiwan at the Dominican International School in Taipei. Archbishop An-Zhu Chung of the Archdiocese of Taipei (Most Rev. Thomas An-Zhu CHUNG) presided over the Eucharistic Celebration, joined by the members of the Claretian Missionaries. The ceremony also witnessed the Perpetual Profession of two Scholastics: Bros. Joseph Zhang Luheng, CMF, and Pham Nguyen Anh Tam, CMF.
In 1994, the Claretians began their evangelization mission in Taiwan at the invitation of Archbishop Dee Gang of Taipei. Since 1999, Fr. Arturo Morales, CMF, has worked with the indigenous people of the Taipei Archdiocese and became Deputy Director of the Commission for Pastoral Evangelization of Indigenous Peoples in 2005. Initially serving the Amis community, he established the Aboriginal Marian Pastoral Center in 2015, expanding his outreach to all indigenous groups. The Claretians also promote Masses in indigenous languages, including Amis and Paiwan, within the Diocese of Taipei.
From 2009 onward, the Congregation has served several parishes in the Diocese of Taipei, including Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Keelung, St. John the Baptist Church, and others. Currently, they serve Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, Sacred Heart of Jesus Churches in Ruifang and Kinmen, and Queen of Peace Church in Keelung. Since 1994, 13 Claretians have served in Taiwan, with 5 priests and 2 seminarians currently active in the mission. After the group photo, the venue came alive with Amis music as everyone joined hands for a festive dance. Bishop Chung, accompanied by two newly vowed religious, led the pre-dinner prayer and blessed the food, which was enjoyed in joyful communion.
[Credits from Bro. Joseph Luheng, CMF]