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My dream for the Province is that the friars walk together in the spirit of “anima una, cor unum in Deum”, always in synodality”. With these words, Fr. José Ernil Almayo, expresses his deepest wish for the Order.
Born on July 25, 1971 in Banga, South Cotabato, Ernil came to know the Order through the presence and witness of the Augustinian Recollect Sisters, who ran a school in his locality. “I went to that school and the vocation campaign of 
the sisters was very strong at that time,” he recalls. That influence led many young men, including himself, to enter the Augustinian Recollect seminary in Baguio.
In 1993, he took his simple vows and in 1997 was ordained a priest. His ministry began in the field of education, later moving to Rome to specialize in philosophy at the Gregorian University. Upon his return, he had pastoral experiences in different communities in Baguio and Cebu.
Starting in 2015, he took on a new challenge by being appointed provincial secretary, a position he has held for three terms. “At first it was very difficult, because I was still trying to understand the ins and outs of being provincial secretary,” he admits. Over time, however, the experience allowed him to go about his work more smoothly, “As you get into the details, you know more and things become easier.”
Next May, the Province of St. Ezekiel Moreno will celebrate its IX Provincial Chapter. Referring to the report on the state of the Province, Friar Almayo highlights the priorities: “We must address issues such as ongoing formation, vocation ministry and our missions, among other important aspects”. He also highlights the importance of collaboration within the Recollect family:
“I am happy that the Augustinian Recollect communities are moving forward in their project of their life and mission, especially in collaboration with the laity.”
Ernil embodies the spirit of synodality within the Order, convinced that the key is to walk together in faith and mission.