On February 20, 2024, the Priests of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (SCJ) celebrated the joyful ordination of four new deacons: Br. Giovanni Bautista, Br. Carl Ryan Opeña, Br. Rackie Roxas, and Br. July Zambrano. The ceremony, held at the St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines, at 2:30 PM, was presided over by His Excellency, Archbishop Jose A. Cabantan, D.D., of Cagayan de Oro. He was joined by Archbishop Emeritus Most Rev. Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ. D.D., whose esteemed presence added further significance to the occasion.

This momentous occasion marks just two months since these four brothers made their Perpetual Profession of Vows on December 6, 2023, signifying their full commitment to the SCJ way of life. Their ordination marks a significant step in their journeys of service and ministry.

The ordination ceremony was a beautiful testament to the power of faith and community. Six other seminarians from the Cagayan de Oro Archdiocese were ordained alongside our SCJ brothers, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose. The ceremony was further enriched by the presence of SCJs from various parts of the Philippines, who came to witness and celebrate this important milestone.

In his homily, the main celebrant, Archbishop Cabantan, emphasized the important role of a “Servant Leader.” He drew inspiration from the Gospel reading, urging the newly ordained deacons to lead with humility, compassion, and dedication, always prioritizing the needs of others above their own. He further enlightened the congregation by explaining the symbolism and meaning of the vestments worn by deacons, highlighting their significance in representing service and proclaiming the Gospel.

The celebration was filled with joy, prayer, and profound meaning. As deacons, they will have the opportunity to further deepen their ministry and engage in new avenues of service within the Church. They will assist with baptisms, marriages, and funerals, preach the Gospel, and share God’s love with all they encounter.

Br. Giovanni Bautista hails from St. Jude Thaddeus Parish in Damilag, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, within the Diocese of Malaybalay. Br. Carl Ryan Opeña also proudly calls St. Jude Thaddeus Parish his home. Br. Rackie Roxas finds his roots in Jesus Nazareno Parish in Dansolihon, Cagayan de Oro City, under the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro. Lastly, Br. July Zambrano draws his faith from San Isidro Labrador Parish in Medina, Misamis Oriental, also belonging to the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro.

Following the ordination, a joyous common meal was held at the Sacred Heart Formation House in Cagayan de Oro, marking the beginning of a new chapter for these newly ordained deacons. We are filled with immense joy and pride to welcome Giovanni, Carl Ryan, Rackie and July as deacons. We are confident that they will use their gifts and talents to serve the Church and community with compassion, dedication, and the charism of the SCJs.

Please join us in extending our heartfelt congratulations to our new deacons! We pray for their continued growth and fulfillment in their ministries, and may they inspire all of us with their commitment to serving God and others.