One step closer towards Priesthood

“Brothers and sisters, I am quite sure, very sure, that each one of us is filled with so much joy that the Lord has gathered us together.” This was the opening message of Archbishop Romulo Valles, D.D. during his homily on May 23, addressing the parents, priests, professors, staff, and especially the 24 seminarians who were candidates for the 58th Commencement Exercises and Baccalaureate Mass at St. Francis Xavier College Seminary in Catalunan Grande, Davao City.

The atmosphere of elation and jubilation was vividly present in the main aisle of the St. Francis Xavier College Seminary Chapel as the parents and guardians escorted their respective sons. Indelible smiles can be seen in the faces of the parents and the seminarians during the celebration of the Mass as part of an important event that marked their successful formation years in the Discipleship year stage.

In relation to the readings, Archbishop Valles said, “a mark of a true disciple, I have said already, is not the academic achievements but to be inch by inch closer to Jesus.” A true disciple in his very busy day will know how and where to find a place to pray. He exhorted the seminarians, especially those who aspire to become priests, on the importance of prayer life despite the busy and hectic schedules of a priestly ministry.

In addition, Archbishop Valles pointedly asked the question: “Can you already talk about Jesus?” If this world is a court, can we call you each one to stand before us and tell us the truth about Jesus? Can you, like the court, can you swear yes, I know Him, I have met Him, I know his mind and heart?” He hoped that the seminarians, in their attitude of prayer and in the course of their formation, would be able to proclaim, to talk about, to witness who this Jesus is and to say, “I can truly testify who Jesus is.” Believe me, I know Him, for I am His disciple. ”

In his parting message, Archbishop Valles lauded and congratulated the 24 seminarians who have finished their discipleship stage formation. Lastly, he said that this is a source of joy that we can offer to God and the Archdiocese of Davao, the Diocese of Mati, and the Apostle of Jesus Crucified Congregation as these young men are about to prepare themselves for their future ministry.

The Archbishop of Davao, Most Rev. Romulo Valles, who was the presider of the Baccalaureate Mass, also headed the distribution of diplomas and the conferring of the degree of Bachelor of Arts Major in Philosophy to the graduates during the 58th Commencement Exercises together with Rev. Fr. Orlando Angelia, Rector of St. Francis Xavier College Seminary, Rev. Fr. Robert Adam Cajipo, Dean of Studies, and the representative priests from the Diocese of Mati and the Apostles of Jesus Crucified congregation.

Of the 24 graduates, 20 were from the Archdiocese of Davao; 3 from the Diocese of Mati; and the remaining one from the Apostle of Jesus Crucified Congregation. (Sem. Alvin James B. Españo, DY3)