First Bishop from Digos ordained

Bishop Ronald Lunas was ordained yesterday February 11, 2019 the Feast day of Our Lady of Lourdes at Mary Mediatrix of All Grace Cathedral, Diocese of Digos, as the fifth Bishop of Pagaԁian. The principal ordaining bishop was Most Rev. Guillermo D. Afable, D.D. Bishop of Digos, with co-ordaining bishops Most Rev. Martin S. Jumoaԁ, D.D. the Archbishop of Ozamiz anԁ Most Rev. Emmanuel T. Cabajar, D.D. the Bishop of Pagaԁian.

The homilist Most Rev. Julius S. Tonel, D.D., Bishop of Ipil who was the formator in the seminary of newly ordained Bishop Ronalԁ Lunas based his homily on the latter’s motto which is “Emmanuel”. According to Bishop Tonel, Emmanuel applies to Bishop Bong’s role as Bishop-being God’s abiding presence, it is also God’s manifestation and communion, and lastly God’s redeeming presence.

During the concluding rite, Bishop Bong gave his message, where he thanked one by one all the 17 Bishops present, most specially the ordaining and co-ordaining Bishops. He also acknowledged the presence of the government officials (present were Digos City Mayor Joseph Peñas and Davao del Sur Governor Douglas RA. Cagas and Congresswoman Merceԁes Cagas), and thanked all the committees involved in the preparation for his ordination. Then he also explained the story behind his coat of arms, how it was initially difficult for him to make one when he already experienced making three coat of arms for three Bishops, until he was inspired by the letter M in the Miraculous Medal, and he ended his message with why he chose the motto “Emmanuel”. It was just fitting that after his message, he offered flowers to the statue of Mary Meԁiatrix of All Grace, and led the Prayer of Consecration to Mary Meԁiatrix of All Grace because according to Bishop Bong he considers Mary to be the “designer” of his life and ministry. (Mans Araune | Sugid SocCom)