On May 31, 2023, the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Fr. John Wen Liang made his First Profession of vows as a member of the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (SCJ). The ceremony occurred in the Novitiate Fr. Dehon in Locuban, Dumalinao, Zamboanga del Sur. Fr. John professed his vows of poverty, chastity and obedience for one year in the presence of Fr. Lukas Hadi Siswo Sasmito, SCJ, the Regional Superior of the Philippine Region, who presided over the Eucharistic celebration and gave a homily on the meaning and significance of religious profession. He reminded Fr. John that professing vows is a personal act and a communal one, as he becomes a member of a religious family with a charism and a mission. He also encouraged him to imitate Mary’s visitation to Elizabeth as a sign of God’s presence and love for those in need.

Fr. John is a native of China. He completed his novitiate year under the guidance of Fr. Indra Pamungkas, SCJ, the Novice Master.

Fr. John expressed his gratitude to God for calling him to follow the charism of Fr. Leo Dehon, the founder of the SCJ Congregation. He also thanked his formators, fellow SCJs, family and friends for their support and prayers. He said he was happy and excited to start his new journey as a religious priest.

The First Profession of vows was witnessed by several SCJs from different communities, some diocesan priests, religious sisters, and lay people. After the ceremony, a festive lunch was served to all the guests.

We congratulate Fr. John on his First Profession of vows and we pray that he may remain faithful to his vocation and grow in love and service to God and his people. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus bless Fr. John and all SCJs in the Philippine Region!