Gratitude to the Past; Hope for the Future

The Diocese of Tagum, in its 62 years since establishment as a Prelature Nulius in 1962, echoed its rich history, reminiscing its sweet beginnings. April 5, 2024 marked the 119th birth anniversary of the late Most Rev. Joseph W. Regan, M.M, D.D., the founding bishop of the then prelature of Tagum. The celebration highlighted the legacies of the bishop, who, because of his closeness to his flock, was fondly called “super lolo.” The occasion was made even more special as it was graced by the Pastoral Visit of His Excellency, the Most Rev. Charles J. Brown, D.D., Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines.

Archbishop Brown arrived on the afternoon of April 4 with warm greetings from the Diocesan Clergy of Tagum and some Religious Superiors from all throughout the Diocese. Bishop Medil S. Aseo, D.D., the shepherd of the diocese, whose 45th sacerdotal ordination anniversary was celebrated that very same day, led the welcome for the esteemed visitor. Ample hours of sleep for the Nuncio followed after the dinner to prepare Him for the big day the next morning.

“This is a testament to the fruitfulness of your diocese,” the Pope’s ambassador said as he spoke at the Queen of Apostles College Seminary, while discussing about the heritage of Tagum Diocese, particularly, the seminary which was established during the episcopacy of bishop Regan. His excellency laughed in admiration upon hearing Fr. Avila, the seminary Rector talking about the super lolo’s famous line, “seminarians do not eat flowers; offer eggs and rice instead.” Appreciating the large number of seminarians at QACS, which Archbishop Brown described to be “very motivating,” the local Church of Tagum remained eternally grateful to bishop Regan and those who toiled tirelessly allowing God’s seeds of vocation to grow and mature in the fields of the diocese.

Formation of local priests and care for the poor and the needy were among the noble thrusts of the then Bishop Regan, which Bishop Aseo, his successor, endeavored to revive and fortify in the present day. It was for this very reason that the diocese arranged the nuncio’s itinerary to be a tour to the diocese’s properties which resonated with the mind of bishop Regan. The Diocesan Printing Press Inc. (DPPI) which was established to support the seminary’s operation, the Spes Pauperum Foundation Inc. (SPFI), and especially the Christ the King Specialist Hospital (the then Bishop Regan Memorial Hospital; founded by bishop Regan himself).

His Excellency, Archbishop Brown also met with the congregation of religious women founded by Bishop Regan, the Ancilla Christi Regis (ACR Sisters) and of course led the blessing of Bishop Regan’s tomb at the Parish of Christ the Eucharistic King. Tagum clergy and seminarians together with other delegates excitedly and joyously accompanied the guest of honor in his day-long tour which culminated with a Holy Mass at the Cathedral of Christ the King after the fellowship lunch at the Tagum Atrium.

Who could fail to be moved on this significant occasion, as the diocese, in partnership with Archbishop Brown, revisited the simple yet meaningful beginnings of its story? In a spirit of deep gratitude, the local Church of Tagum presses forward in unity, embracing Bishop Regan’s enduring vision for the diocese. As a united communion of Basic Ecclesial Communities, the diocese of Tagum looks ahead with hope, anticipating the fulfillment of God’s Kingdom. Adveniat Regnum Tuum! (Sem. Luis Angelo G. Omila)