On 22 July 2021, Feast of St. Mary Magdelene, Frs. Julius Faa (Diocese of Malolos), Christian Kim Mariano (Diocese of Malolos) and Ramon Bong Sabangan (Diocese of Malolos) made their profession in the Dominican fraternities in the presence of Brother Arden Xerxes Dacuma, OP, Promoter of the Priestly Fraternities of St. Dominic in the Province of the Philippines. Also on the same occasion, three other diocesan priests were received in the same Chapter of St. Martin de Porres: Fr. Leo Jed Grenia (Diocese of Gumaca); Fr. Angelito Santiago (Diocese of Malolos); and Fr. Jan Brian Samson (Diocese of Malolos).
The solemn rituals of profession and admission took place within the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided over by Br. Dacuma at the Santissima Trinidad Parish in Barihan, Malolos City. Despite the inclement weather, members of the chapter, headed by Fr. Edgardo I. Toribio Jr. of the Diocese of Malolos, were able to come and concelebrate in the Holy Mass with some family members and close friends of the priests, as well as some lay faithful of the parish in attendance.
During his homily, Br. Dacuma pointed out that the Dominican Family, just like any other family, is not perfect, nor close to being perfect. He added, “despite this, you still chose to be part of this family, you still chose to be part of this brotherhood. And with this, it is our privilege and honor to welcome you in our family.” He likewise stressed the role of St. Mary Magdalene as patroness of the Dominican Order. As Mary Magdalene became the apostle to the apostles, Br. Dacuma affirmed that all the members of the Priestly Fraternities must also preach the Good News of Christ's resurrection to all.
After the Eucharistic celebration, a brief meeting and fellowship took place over lunch hosted by the parish priest Fr. Francisco G. Carson. The Prior of the chapter, Fr. Edgardo I. Toribio Jr., presided over the meeting where the members discussed the next activities and events of the fraternity. Formally established on 4 September 2020, the Chapter of St. Matin de Porres now has a membership of nineteen priests, five of which are in the novitiate formation.
Fr. Jan Brian S. Samson
