02/08/2026
Fire Tree
By: Sem. Jeremiah O. Bangalan
Apostolate Exposure
During our apostolate at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Galimuyod, we had the opportunity to plant trees and learn different tree-planting techniques together with Brother Adan. Among the different kinds of trees we could have planted, we decided to plant a Fire Tree.
As we began planting, we noticed that the soil was filled with rocks, and we wondered whether such ground could truly sustain life. Curious, we asked one of the sacristans, who had also planted a tree. He said, “Narigat dumakkel mula ditoy brother ta adu bato ti daga,”.
While we were clearing the grass and digging the soil, Father Jack shared a meaningful reflection. He said that this tree we are planting symbolizes life—not just any life, but the life of our vocation. Brother Adan joking asked,“Nu matay jay mula mi, Apo, ket matay met jay bokasyon min?”. Father Jack smiled and replied that if the soil is rich and we continue to follow the path of Jesus, the tree will not die. Even if the tree were to wither, it would not mean that our vocation had come to an end.
Afterwards, Father Jack asked, “How was the experience, boys?” Brother Adan and I simply looked at each other and quietly laughed, almost as if we were not doing groundwork in the Seminary. But later, I realized that the tree itself tells a story.
Every strong tree begins as a small seed. It does not become tall and firm overnight. It must endure heavy rains, strong winds, typhoons, and other calamities before it grows into a sturdy tree. In the same way, our vocation as a journey is not about having a perfect beginning. Rather, it is about beginning with faith, a faith rooted in the Lord. That there will be trials, struggles, and moments of uncertainty. Yet these moments of uncertainty teach us valuable lessons and provide the nourishment our vocation needs to grow. Just like the tree, our lives don’t need to have a perfect start, a perfect environment, nor a perfect life but growth starts with understanding deeper the true meaning of life. A life deeply rooted with faith in Jesus Christ.
