Rite of Admission to Candidacy for Holy Orders at San Pedro Cathedral

On October 7, 2024, during the feast of the Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, the San Pedro Cathedral Parish hosted the Rite of Admission to Candidacy for Holy Orders, a significant milestone in the journey toward priesthood. This ceremony marks a formal acknowledgment of the candidates’ intentions to embrace the priestly vocation, embodying key elements that highlight the importance of their calling.

The rite serves as a reflective recognition of each candidate’s divine call to the priesthood. The Church, through the bishop, publicly affirms their desire to serve in the ministerial priesthood, establishing a sacred connection between the candidates and their mission. In his homily, Most Rev. Romulo G. Valles, D.D. reminded the 6 candidates, “please remember your priestly calling. Mary will accompany you; she is not only a great model but also a powerful intercessor.

A vital aspect of this rite is the emphasis on community support. The presence of family, friends, and parishioners highlights that the candidates are not alone in their journey. They are being sent forth by the Church community to fulfill a divine mission, reinforcing the idea that vocation is both personal and communal.

During the ceremony, candidates expressed their commitment to a life of service, mirroring the sacrificial nature of the priesthood. This moment serves as a personal and communal affirmation of their dedication to the mission of Christ, inviting them to model their lives after the mystery of the Lord’s cross.

The candidates for admission to candidacy included:

• Francis Alimeos Flores – Holy Family Parish, Baliok
• Roldan Balon Baliano – San Pedro Cathedral
• Jessie Joseph Calaguim Canonigo – San Miguel Parish, Panacan
• Perry Neil Gellica Patayon – Immaculate Conception Parish, Mintal
• Aljon Bejod Mayol – Immaculate Conception Parish, Peñaplata, IGACOS
• Resty Joy Juyo Cabahug – Virgen De Los Remedios Parish, Crossing Bayabas

During the rite, the candidates underwent an examination in which they were asked if they resolve to complete their preparation for holy orders and commit themselves in mind and spirit to serve Christ and His Church faithfully.