FOUNDER's Day Celebration

By: Jose Maria Claro

For the first time in thirty-five years, the ERDA group gathered as one community to celebrate the 95th birthday of its founder, Fr. Pierre Tritz, S.J. This momentous event was held at the Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC) in Quezon City, Philippines.

In the past, each of the four organizations that comprise ERDA group held their own celebrations at their respective offices. On the occasion of Fr. Tritz' 95th birthday, as well as ERDA Group's 35th anniversary, the board of trustees decided to organize a special gathering with the theme: “One Group, One Mission: 35 Years of Unrelenting Service."

The celebration started with a Thanksgiving Mass presided by the Jesuit Father Provincial, Fr. Jose Cecilio J. Magadia, S.J., and concelebrated by Fr. Pierre Tritz, S.J, Fr. Johnny Go, S.J., Fr. Luc Morgart, Fr. Peig, and Fr. Antonio de Castro, S.J. who delivered the homily. The ERDA Tech chorale, which is composed of ERDA Tech students and headed by Mr. Elmer Bueno, added solemnity and depth to the Eucharistic celebration.

Admiration from fellow Jesuits

Fr. Tritz' fellow priests from the Society of Jesus expressed their awe and respect for the generous and loving man that is Fr. Tritz. In his homily, Fr. de Castro marveled at Fr. Tritz' ability to smile and be of joyful service even at his seasoned age. On the other hand, the Jesuit Provincial, Fr. Magadia highlighted the importance of the mission of the ERDA Group and voiced his gratitude to Fr. Tritz' lay partners in continuing the mission to the Philippines' poor and marginalized sector.

The mass was followed by more tributes from his brother Jesuits. One unforgettable event was the video presentation made by Bro. Anthony Coloma which was a montage of pictures manifesting how ERDA group has helped and made life more meaningful to many Filipino children. Finally, ERDA's chairman of the board, Fr. Johnny Go, reflected on Fr. Tritz' untiring love and passion for his vocation.

"Let us remember that Fr. Tritz started his work here at ERDA Group at 60," Fr. Go pointed out. "His life is a testament that it is never too late to do something for God."

Service Recognition

Echoing Fr. Magadia's appreciation for Fr. Tritz' lay partners, an important highlight of the day was the service recognition awards given to the men and women who have offered the best years of their lives to ERDA Group's mission. 3 ERDA Board Members and 13 staff  received the special awards that symbolize the gratitude of the ERDA group community to the pioneers of the organization.

95 Something

As a fitting end to the thanksgiving celebration, the 95 Something project was launched by the ERDA Group. It is a year-round fundraising campaign so that poor Filipino children will have greater access to education and have a better future.

Our Catholic faith teaches us that Jesus Christ fought injustice and oppression by His zealous love and compassion for the poor and forsaken of His society. It is this same love and compassion that is the sole reason why Fr. Tritz keeps on going at 95, and with God's grace, even beyond.

To download 95 Something donor form (PESO donation), click here

To download 95 Something donor form (US/EURO donation), click here