Tahanan ng Mabuting Pastol

Why did Bishop Perez choose the name Tahanan ng Mabuting Pastol? We’re standing before this seminary, Tahanan ng Mabuting Pastol, and its story is deeply entwined with a turbulent period in Philippine history. The 1970s, a time of political unrest under the Marcos regime, also saw a period of renewal for the Catholic Church. Tahanan ng Mabuting Pastol was born amidst this backdrop of both upheaval and spiritual awakening. In the midst of the turmoil of the 1970s, a number of theology students left San Carlos Seminary. Twenty-five of them found refuge in the Diocese of Imus under Bishop Felix Perez. They continued their studies at the Divine Word School of Theology in Tagaytay, temporarily housed at the John XXIII Training Center. Bishop Perez recognized the immediate need for a dedicated seminary for his seminarians. The diocese constructed a new seminary, and on July 15, 1974, the seminarians transitioned from John XXIII to their new home. This marked the beginning of the Tahanan ng Mabuting Pastol. This initial community, known as the John XXIII community, consisted of 36 seminarians. Seventeen were from the Diocese of Imus, with the rest coming from various other dioceses. In December 1975, the seminary was officially inaugurated. While the intended name was Nuestra Señora de Porta Vaga, Bishop Perez ultimately chose “Tahanan ng Mabuting Pastol,” meaning “Home of the Good Shepherd.” Bishop Perez envisioned Tahanan ng Mabuting Pastol as more than just a building. He wanted it to be a true home, a nurturing environment where seminarians could grow in freedom, respect, and love. His vision reflected the core belief that priests should emulate Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd. This founding vision was supported by the generosity of many. The Religious of the Good Shepherd provided essential supplies and personnel. Even Hotel Intercontinental Manila and the SVD Fathers contributed. The early years of Tahanan ng Mabuting Pastol were marked by financial struggles. Donations from various sources helped sustain the seminary during this challenging period. Despite these difficulties, Tahanan ng Mabuting Pastol persevered, shaped by Bishop Perez’s vision. He believed in fostering a nurturing environment for future priests. He sought to create good shepherds who would serve their communities with the same love and compassion exemplified by Jesus Christ.