Dumalinao, Zamboanga del Sur – May 31, 2026

On May 31, 2026, the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity and the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, three SCJ novices made their First Religious Profession in the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (SCJ).

The newly professed religious are:

• Allen Fornis, from Medalla Parish, Talisay, Hilongos, Leyte
• Peddy Serencio, from San Isidro Parish, Kumalarang, Zamboanga del Sur
• Orlando Da Cruz, from Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish, Dili, East Timor

Through the profession of the vows of Chastity, Poverty, and Obedience, they publicly expressed their commitment to follow Christ more closely and to dedicate their lives to the service of God and His people according to the charism of the Congregation.

The three novices prepared for this important moment for more than a year at the Fr. Dehon Novitiate in Lower Lucoban, Dumalinao, under the guidance of Fr. Indra Pamungkas, SCJ, Novice Master, assisted by Fr. Rechie C. Gier, SCJ..

The profession ceremony was held at the Novitiate and was attended by SCJ confreres from the communities of Kumalarang and Dumalinao. The vows were received in the name of the Congregation by Fr. Nino B. Etulle, SCJ, Regional Superior of the Philippine Region.

During the same celebration, Sem. Ramon T. Pilo Jr., SCJ also renewed his religious vows, reaffirming his commitment to the evangelical counsels and continuing his journey of formation and service within the Congregation.

Following their profession, Allen Fornis and Peddy Serencio will continue their formation at the Dehon House Community in Manila, where they will pursue theological studies in preparation for future ministry and eventual ordination to the priesthood. Orlando Da Cruz will continue his formation in Macau.

This joyful celebration marks an important milestone in the lives of these young Dehonians as they begin a new stage of their religious journey, responding generously to the call of the Lord and embracing the mission of making known the love of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the world.

We entrust them to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and pray that they may remain faithful and joyful in their vocation, persevering in their response to God’s call and becoming authentic witnesses of Christ’s love in the Church and in society.