The Redemptorist Vice-Province of Manila celebrated a moment of great joy and thanksgiving with the ordination of three Redemptorist confreres to the Sacred Order of Deacons. The ordination took place on 21 August at the National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help in Baclaran, Parañaque City, Metro Manila, gathering Redemptorists, family members, friends, and faithful in prayer and celebration.
The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by His Excellency, Elias L. Ayuban, Jr., CMF, DD, Bishop of Cubao and Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Parañaque. Through the laying on of hands and the prayer of ordination, the three Redemptorist confreres were officially admitted to the diaconate, taking an important step in their journey toward priestly ministry.
The newly ordained deacons are: Bro. Jhon Mark E. Aves, C.Ss.R., Bro. Emmanuel A. De Guzman, C.Ss.R., Bro. Melandro S. Pera, Jr., C.Ss.R.
The ordination theme, “Loved by Christ, Given for Others” (cf. John 21:15–17), beautifully captured the essence of the diaconal vocation. As ministers ordained for service, the new deacons are called to imitate Christ the Servant, proclaim the Gospel, assist at the altar, and dedicate themselves to the service of God’s people, especially the poor, the abandoned, and those most in need of hope and accompaniment.
For the Redemptorist family, the ordination is a sign of God’s continuing call and a source of renewed hope for the mission of the Congregation. It is also a moment to give thanks for the generosity of these confreres who have responded to God’s invitation with faith, courage, and commitment.
As Deacons Jhon Mark Aves, Emmanuel De Guzman, and Melandro Pera begin this new chapter of ministry, the Redemptorist Vice-Province of Manila entrusts them to the loving care of Our Mother of Perpetual Help. May they continue to grow in holiness, zeal, and missionary dedication as they proclaim the Gospel and serve the People of God in the spirit of St. Alphonsus and the Redemptorist charism.
The entire Redemptorist community joins in congratulating the newly ordained deacons and assures them of continued prayers and support. May the Lord who has called them strengthen them in their vocation and make their ministry a blessing for the Church and the world.
Source: Facebook of Redemptorist Vice-Province of Manila
