He has consecrated me?

Four Filipino Marist Brothers professed their final vows last October 7, 2006, the Feast of our Lady of the Holy Rosary. They were Br. Allan de Castro, Br. Rommel Ocasiones, Br. Florante Casuyon and Br. Demosthenes Calabria. The Liturgy, presided over by Bishop Romulo Valles, DD, of the Diocese of Kidapawan, was celebrated at the Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Church in Lagao, General Santos City. It carried the theme, ?Teach me wisdom and knowledge, for in You I trust.? (Ps. 119.6)

The said occasion was graced by the brothers, priests, sisters, family members, lay mission partners, and friends. Br. Peter Rodney, Councilor General, who was on the last stretch of his pastoral visit to the province, was also present, along with the brothers of the Mission Ad Gentes Program.

Capping the celebration was the fellowship meal at the Notre Dame of Dadiangas University High School gym. It was indeed a wonderful experience of family spirit, as our four brothers witnessed to God?s boundless love on those whom he calls, sets apart and sends on mission.

Br. Allan is presently assigned in Marist School, Marikina, while Br. Rommel is working with the indigenous people of Malutok in Palawan Province. Both of them pronounced their first vows in 1999. Br. Florante, whose temporary profession happened in 2000, is currently serving the young people of Notre Dame of Jolo, Sulu. Br. Demosthenes is doing ministry at the Notre Dame of Dadiangas University-Espina Campus. His first profession was in 2001.

Lindley H. Sionosa, FMS