SLRP Holds First Deaconate Ordination in the Parish

by Ate Karen Yap

On July 24, 2010, the parish of San Lorenzo experienced a first in its history. Two members of the Priests of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (SCJ) Bro. John Phong Qouc Tran and Bro. Joseph Quang Tran were ordained as deacons in a ceremony presided by his Most Rev. Antonio R. Tobias, D.D., bishop of Novaliches. He was assisted by Fr. Benedito Machado, SCJ head of its Theologate here in Tierra Verde and Fr. Vincentius Sri Herimanto, SCJ, Formator assigned in their Formation Center in Cagayan de Oro.

Reverends John and Joseph are both from the Diocese of Nha Trang in Vietnam and finished their studies here in the Philippines. Their parents and other relatives came all the way from Vietnam to share in the happy event.

The occasion was also graced by the presence of around 25 other priests from SCJ and other religious orders who concelebrated at the mass. Our parish priest, Fr. Luke Dobles, took on the role of acolyte for the bishop. Fr. Nonong Cabaluna, SCJ, served as photographer. Seminarians of the Dehon House here in Tierra Verde joined members from the SLRP Gospel Choir to complete the liturgy.

Being a first in its history, preparations by the parish to make the event as successful and meaningful as possible were intense, thanks to the efforts of Kuya Cesar Tiongson, Ate Josie Cruz and Ate Aida Arines who worked closely with Fr. Nonong and Fr. Luke. After the ceremony, the congregation was invited to a sumptuous lunch at the multipurpose hall.