Jun Maranan
What drew you to becoming an Augustinian?
As a cradle Catholic from a large family, I deeply value the Christ-centered fraternity and solidarity that are present in the Augustinian community. Also, being a life-long learner, I value the search for the truth and the incessant desire to know God and oneself, which are promoted, supported, and cultivated within the Augustinian community of brothers in the same journey towards God. The Augustinian community provides a space where I can discover and share my authentic self. It also challenges me to expand my heart and mind while striving to embody Christ daily.
How has your faith grown since entering religious life?
For me, faith is intertwined with trust in the Lord. I believe my faith has grown since I entered the Augustinian community, evidenced by my continued presence in formation. Staying in formation requires profound faith and complete trust in God's plan. It means listening to Him in the silence of my heart every day and responding to His call with full surrender. A prayer that has accompanied me during formation is the Surrender Prayer: "O Jesus, I surrender myself to you, take care of everything."
How important is prayer in your life?
Prayer is the root that firmly anchors the life of a religious, so it plays a critical role in my life. It provides me with nourishment, strength, enlightenment, and direction in my spiritual journey, and it connects me with God; my Augustinian brothers, family, and friends; the Church; other souls; and myself. Prayer is not just about spending time alone in front of the Blessed Sacrament; it can be as simple as being aware of God's presence, lifting my mind and heart to Him while doing daily tasks or chores, and offering everything to Him.
What do you do all day as a novice?
Our schedule has a sense of regularity, but it also allows for spontaneous activities. We participate in individual and communal prayer, daily Mass, and individual and group study. Other activities include seminars, spiritual reading, reflection, and journaling, as well as opportunities to take care of our home. We also have communal meals and social/recreational activities. At the heart of all these activities is encountering God in our daily lives.
What’s one thing you wish you knew before entering that you know now?
There is really nothing that I wish I knew before joining the Augustinians. I came in with an open heart and mind to be challenged, to learn, and to listen. It is important to have some expectations, but it is equally important to manage those expectations, trust in the Lord, and listen to where He is perhaps attempting to stretch my heart and mind. Letting God surprise me is part of my spiritual journey towards Him.