One of the pioneer volunteers of the SVD Laudato Si' Farm, Bro. Mark N. Paglicawan, SVD, vividly remembered the early days of the project.
Bro. Mark emphasized his commitment to the project, driven by his belief in sharing the gifts God had given him for the mission. Despite the busy schedule, the shared purpose of their efforts made the experience enjoyable for him.
What started as a humble initiative grew beyond expectations. People began visiting the SVD Farm regularly, enjoying the serene atmosphere, fresh produce, and the warmth of the SVD community. Bro. Mark played a pivotal role in the transformation and growth of the SVD Farm during its formative months. As the overseer of the Laudato Si' Kubo and the Farm's landscape, Bro. Mark's tireless efforts and involvement made a lasting impact on this remarkable project.
Bro. Mark was among the pioneering volunteers, a group of approximately 42 SVD seminarians, including first-year seminarians led by Frt. Jonathan Florino, SVD, and second-year seminarians led by Frt. Edbelwin Jia Manda, SVD. While many of his fellow SVD priests and seminarians dedicated their time to the SVD Farm apostolate once a week, Bro. Mark's commitment went far beyond, working at the Farm almost every day, taking on several crucial roles.
During this period, Bro. Mark took on multiple responsibilities. He was a student, diligently pursuing his Master of Arts in Biblical Ministry at the Catholic Theological Union. At the same time, he served as the Apostolate Director of the SVD Scholastics and the Secretary of the SVD Formation Team. At the SVD Farm, he served as the designer, foreman, and landscape artist. When the SVD Café was launched to the public, Bro. Mark served as the SVD Café’s officer-in-charge, overseeing staff, sales, and purchasing, among other responsibilities.
Despite his busy schedule and numerous responsibilities, Bro. Mark possessed a deep commitment to helping others and sharing the gifts that God had bestowed upon him. When Fr. Sam approached him for assistance, Bro. Mark did not hesitate to say, "Yes." The SVD Tagaytay Community recognized the immense love and dedication he poured into the project. While undoubtedly tiring, working with people who shared the same sense of purpose made the experience enjoyable and less taxing.
Reflecting on the journey, Bro. Mark admitted that he did not anticipate the project's remarkable growth and impact, saying that what drove him was a genuine love for what he was doing.
Presently assigned as the acting Vice President for Administration at Holy Name University in Bohol, he continues to embody his belief in sharing his gifts for God's mission.
As Bro. Mark's story illustrates, the SVD Farm is not only a testament to sustainability and environmental stewardship but also a place where individuals like Bro. Mark have dedicated themselves to a mission that transcends boundaries. Their love for the project, their community, and their faith is a legacy that continues to inspire all who visit the SVD Farm.
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For reservations and other information, including ways to support and connect with the SVD Farm, contact us through:
📞 0905-106-5499
📧 contact@svdlaudatosifarmfoundation.org.