Forged in Faith

In a significant celebration of commitment and service, six seminarians were ordained to the Sacred Order of Deacon on November 12, 2024, marking an important milestone for both these men and the Church they now serve. The ordination ceremony took place at the St. Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary of Mindanao (REMASE) Chapel in Catalunan Grande, Davao City, as part of the seminary’s 60th Founding Anniversary. His Excellency, Most Reverend Romulo G. Valles, D.D., Archbishop of Davao, led the ceremony, joined by concelebrating bishops, clergy, families, and lay faithful.

The newly ordained deacons include Rev. Bryan B. Bermejo from the Diocese of Mati; Rev. Francis A. Flores from the Archdiocese of Davao; Rev. Leonelex S. Miano and Rev. Ariel A. Toting from the Diocese of Malaybalay; Rev. Bon Ivan Mark Tabalbag from the Diocese of Butuan; and Rev. Carlo Rey Q. Panaguiton, SDV, from the Society of Divine Vocations. Each of the deacons has a unique background and spiritual inspiration, rooted in their diocesan communities and inspired by their patron saints and favorite scripture verses.

In his homily, Archbishop Valles emphasized the sacred calling of the diaconate, the first degree of Holy Orders. Deacons are called to serve the altar, proclaim the Gospel, distribute the Eucharist, and minister to the poor and marginalized, embodying the compassionate heart of Christ. “I chose you to bear fruit,” (John 15:16) was the guiding theme of the ceremony, underscoring the lifelong mission these deacons now embrace as they enter public ministry.

Each of the newly ordained deacons shared a deeply personal connection with their faith. Rev. Flores, inspired by Luke 1:37, “For nothing will be impossible for God,” carries the resilience of his namesake, St. Francis of Assisi. Rev. Panaguiton, following the words of Mark 8:36, “For what shall it profit a man if he gains the world and lose his own soul?” draws inspiration from St. Justin Ma. Russolillo, the founder of his congregation. Rev. Tabalbag holds to 2 Corinthians 12:9, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness,” and looks up to St. Chrysostom as a model of perseverance.

As these deacons begin their new journey, they bring with them a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to the Church. Their ordination during REMASE’s anniversary further highlights the seminary’s role in shaping dedicated spiritual leaders. Let us pray for their ministry and for more vocations to the priesthood, as these men lead and serve with hope, faith, and the spirit of synodality.