That Priest from Peñaplata

While the Catholic church commemorated the Passion of St. John the Baptist last August 29, another momentous event happened at the Immaculate Conception Parish in Peñaplata after 56 long years. Most Reverend Romulo G. Valles, D.D., Archbishop of Davao, ordained Reverend Jerick B. Asdang to the priesthood which many parishioners from the island and mainland Davao witnessed. Several priests from the different parishes in and outside the archdiocese, including Archbishop Emeritus Fernando R. Capalla, D.D., and several religious sisters and brothers were able to attend.

56 years have passed since a Samaleño has been ordained to the priesthood which brought the people of the island very grateful and proud. This priest from 1966 is still very much healthy at 80 years old today in the person of Msgr. Ed Rodriguez. Another fact that makes this ordination so special is that Fr. Jerick is the first to be ordained at the current structure of the parish. Indeed it is a memorable day for the people of Peñaplata.

During the homily, Archbishop Valles reminded Fr. Jerick to always pray for the intercession of the Blessed Mother for him to become effective in proclaiming Jesus and His good news to the people. Another reminder was to have the passion as well as the courage and self-confidence, that St. John the Baptist had in proclaiming the truth and justice of Jesus. He must have the disposition, character and attitude of being a humble servant of Jesus.

As Fr. Jerick delivered his thanksgiving speech, he noted how special that day was to him not only because he was ordained but also because 35 years ago, he was baptized in the very same parish. Truly that seed of faith from 35 years ago, grew and he is now that priest, from Peñaplata. (Bro. Ignatius Gonzales, CFA | Photos by Brenda P. Milan and DCH)