TACLOBAN CITY – On September 23, 2022, five deacons were ordained at the St. Padre Pio Mission Area, Dreamville Subdivision, CRS Brgy. 93 Bagacay, Tacloban City on the occasion of the feast of St. Padre Pio.
Most Rev. John F. Du, DD, Archbishop of Palo, conferred the Sacred Order of Deacons through the imposition of the hands, to Sem. Justin M. Alcantara (St. Isidore Parish, Merida, Leyte), Sem. Daniel Alexander A. Hilvano (Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, V&G, Tacloban City), Sem. Mariel P. Dejaño (St. Isidore Parish, Merida, Leyte), Sem. Joemar A. Martos (St. Augustine Parish, Matlang, Isabel, Leyte), Sem. Jonathan T. Raagas (St. Jude Thaddeus Parish, PHHC, Tacloban City).
“Your prayer has been heard, my prayer has been heard. God is very generous,” said the Archbishop in his homily. He also reminded the candidates to thank St. Padre Pio for the gift of vocation, miracles, and intercessions.
Despite the challenges that were observed during the celebration, with the venue still under construction and further development; the event was meaningful and fruitful. There are still many things that need to be improved in the mission area. But, through the help of many individuals and the intercession of St. Padre Pio, its completion is not far from realization. In this regard, the generosity of everyone is indeed a blessing to the community in the mission area.
During the Holy Mass, which at the same time is the Fiesta celebration of the Mission Station; the Archbishop announced that the presbyteral ordination of the newly ordained will be in December. It will be in their respective home parishes. Moreover, the Secretary to the Archbishop, Rev. Fr. Gwen Padagdag, announced the assigned parishes of the newly ordained until the ordination to the Priesthood.
Before the event ended, Rev. Hilvano, a newly ordained deacon, expressed his gratitude on behalf of the other deacons. The newly ordained deacons thanked everyone who in one way or another helped them, guided them, and prayed for them as they continue their journey.
– Karl Palacio –