(Since September is the vocation month in almost all dioceses in the Philippines, the moderators invited people to share their vocation stories.  This week, we have Br. Canisio Jose Willrich from Brazil.  He is presently in Davao attending the ‘Ad Gentes’ Orientation Program with nine other Brothers from other countries.)

I was born on February 17, 1972 in a village called São Vendelino, South Brazil. I’m 35 years young and I spent most of my life sharing Marist spirituality with all those I encountered.

I have 6 brothers and 2 sisters. My oldest brother is a diocesan priest. Because of his influence and that of my godfather as well, I entered very early in the seminary but later I felt that Jesus was calling me to follow him through another way.

I came to know the Marist Brothers in two ways: Firstly, in the primary school, when the Brothers came, shared and explained their way of life. And, secondly, through my brother who lived with the Brothers for three years. So, he gave me support when I decided to join the Marist Brothers in 1985.  I was 14 years young then.

The formation house was very near to our village.  I enjoyed the first year experience.   The Brothers welcomed me very well, making me feel at home, like a family.The following year, I went to another Marist’s formation house, where I stayed for 3 years doing my high school, with other candidates. It was a good opportunity to become close to the Marist Brothers and to know more about their life and mission.I could feel that Mary, our Good Mother was present in all those times giving me hope and faith.

In 1990, I went to the postulancy. There I stayed for one year. That was a moment of discernment which led to the deepening of the call to become a Marist Brother. The formators helped me and supported me many times in the process of formation and in sharing life.I felt myself identified with the charisma of Marcellin Champagnat. So, after acceptance, I went to the noviciate for 2 years. That was a wonderful experience of God, which allowed me to deepen my spirituality. It was a central moment in my life because after two years, I professed my temporary vows of chastity, poverty and obedience. These vows were definitive engagement with Jesus Christ through the Marist Brothers’ life.

After that I went to the scholasticate for two years, where I started my Theology studies. At the same time, we were engaged in different types of pastoral activities. But since my interest was in formation, so, I asked my Provincial Superior to let me have the experience by being assigned in a formation house. From that moment on, I have dedicated all my time in formation ministry. But I also worked in a social project, in vocation animation and in schools as a teacher.  

In 2003, I had the opportunity to take a formation course in Chile for one year. That was a great gift of God. There I started to realize that God was calling me to become a missionary. So, as soon as I heard about the Marist Project ‘Ad Gentes’, my heart started to beat. I took it as a sign and I wanted to follow that sign generously. I want to be an extension of God’s grace to the needy and to all those who want to welcome this grace. Salamat! Many thanks! 

Brother Canísio José Willrich

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