Oblate of the Risen Christ
Oblate of the Risen Christ – Sister María Araceli of the Holy Cross, O.R.C. “Ave Crux Spes Unica” – “Hail the Cross the Only Hope” Completely devoted to proclaiming the message of Easter: the mystery of the Resurrection of Christ and love of the Cross as the way of salvation “Ora et Labora” – “Pray and Work”
Founders: Ronald Thomas A. Cortez, S.R.C. (“Father Archie”) Sister Teresa Mary John Valdon
Place: Tarlac, Philippines
Year: 1999 A.D.
Her Charism: In the spirit of silence, serenity, solitude, and stillness, this Sister is guided by the Lux Mundi (the “Light of the World”) in pursuit of her dream – a monastic Community which is a blend of St. Dominic’s, St. Augustine’s and St. Benedict’s spiritualities. Following the example of Mary, she contemplates the graces received from God in her heart, and sees life through a prism of eternity and God, Who is the beginning and end of everything. This Oblate undertakes the charge to become a bearer of blessings in the world and an authentic witness of the Gospel. For her, there is only one virtue that counts: unconditional love. She is a Marian servant who comes “to wash the feet” of all who are impoverished, ill, uneducated, abandoned, abused, and fearful. She brings Easter joy and gives hope to the hopeless, aged and infirm, and the marginalized of society – all those who still stand at the tomb looking for Jesus. With the love of our gentle Mother Mary, she reaches out especially to orphans who are like flowers or fruits that carry seeds of new life. It is with joyful hope that this humble handmaid strives to transform society and the world into a worthy reign of God through her prayers, sacrifices, and works of mercy. † This Congregation is characterized by unlimited trust in God’s Goodness which is manifested by the fact that part of the apostolate is based strictly on donations. †