TOP Mass

This morning, at 6:30am, I celebrated the Third Order of Preachers (TOP) Mass with members of the Confraternity of Diocesan Priests and Seminarians, UST Central Seminary Chapter at the Oratory. After the homily, as the Director of the Confraternity I presided over the rite of admission of one postulant, the vestition of a new novice and the simple/temporary profession of six members of the same confraternity.

It was rather a joyous celebration at the same time exhilarating on my part and Fr. Boy Luanzon, OP, who concelebrated with me, to see these young diocesan seminarians enjoying themselves wearing the religious habit (complete with black cape and cappuce) of our holy and venerable Founder, St. Dominic de Guzman. The other members of the confraternity were also present and witnessed the ceremony.

Before giving the final blessing, Fray Emmanuel Quintos OP (Tuguegarao), the incumbent prior of the confraternity, was effusive in his words of gratitude to everyone for the fraternal support and camaraderie extended to him as prior, and in a most special way to the Director, Fr. Boy, and the members of the council. He also informed the assembly that the date for the election of the new Prior (and perhaps other officials) will be announced soonest. After the Mass, we proceeded to the Seminary refectory for breakfast (fraternal agape).

I hope and pray that each member of the Confraternity will grow more and more in the love of the Lord as they move on in their seminary formation following the footsteps of St. Dominic whose life, ideals and mission they have embraced wholeheartedly in the service of the whole people of God. God bless them...