TOTGA: The One That Got Anointed

A priestly ordination took place on Monday, May 22, at The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Calinan, coinciding with the feast of Saint Rita of Cascia.

Fr. Oliver Ganas who is also commonly known as TOTGA or Toto Ganas is from the town of Batuan, Bohol. According to his friend and colleague Fr. Gabriel Dolotina, O.CARM, Fr. Toto is the sixth priest produced by their parish in Batuan, the Saint James Parish.

The ordination of Fr. Toto was presided over by the Archbishop of Davao, Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D. and was accompanied by Bishop of Surigao, Most Rev. Antonietto Cabahug, D.D. and Auxiliary Bishop of Davao, Most Rev. George Rimando, D.D. as well as religious and diocesan priests from the Archdiocese of Davao, Dioceses of Digos, Mati, Surigao, and Bohol.

In his homily, Archbishop Valles acknowledged the number of priests produced by the Parish in Calinan, including Fr. Toto. He also recognized the group of people who attended and supported Fr. Toto’s ordination, which he referred to as a unique picture of the church, comprising lay people, GSL members, priests, and bishops. He emphasized that we are loved by God and blessed with additional priests. He further highlighted the significance and solemnity of the laying of hands on the newly ordained, symbolizing the new priest’s life, role, and responsibility since the establishment of the church.

Indeed, the church was filled with people during the ordination and The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish was overwhelmed with joy. After the Holy Mass, the new priest delivered a message about his journey to priesthood, expressing gratitude to those who supported and encouraged him in various ways. He thanked his parents, siblings, and relatives for their love and support in his vocation. He also expressed gratitude to the bishops of Davao and the priests for their support and love. He became emotional when expressing his gratitude to Bishop Antonietto Cabahug as he is a dear friend. His parting words expressed his request that everyone pray continuously for him.

After the Mass, the Archbishop reminded the new priest to take care of his entrusted responsibilities and the spiritual gifts he received. He encouraged Fr. Toto to strive for a holy and pleasing life. He also asked the new priest to celebrate three Masses dedicated to the Holy Spirit, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and all the deceased.

In conclusion, he requested the new priest to pray to the Lord for guidance. After the Holy Mass, the new priest gave his blessing to the Archbishop, the other bishops, priests, relatives, and the congregation. There was also a hand-kissing ceremony after the Holy Mass. The celebration concluded with a banquet attended by the priests and visitors at the Holy Cross of Calinan Gymnasium. (Jomar Earl Narciso | San Alfonso Ma. De Ligiouri Parish SoCCom)