New deacons in Caceres

By Lilette P. Manauis

Four seminarians were ordained to the sacred order of Deacons in a solemn ceremony at the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Peñafrancia in Naga City last October 10, 2025.

Sem. Mark Christian Estrebello Degracia and Sem. Marx Karl Azur Bergado both of the Parish of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Balatan, Camarines Sur, Sem. Mark Kevin Valera Alba of the Parish of St. Rose of Lima, Anayan, Pili, Camarines Sur and Sem. Jesua Folloso Mortega of the Parish of St. Raphael the Archangel, Pili, Camarines Sur were ordained deacons by the Most Reverend Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Caceres.

Presented by Rev. Fr. Joey Gonzaga, Rector of the Holy Rosary Major Seminary, the Archbishop acknowldeged the milestone that the 4 theologians have reached in their formation. Emphasizing that the ordination to the deaconate "is not a reward but a gift no one is worthy of however given gratuitously by the Lord," Archbishop Alarcon imparted his guidance to the newly ordained deacons.

In his homily he gave them 3 counsels: first he admonished them to "resist the temptation of being entitled." Second he told them to remember that "the diaconate is a gift to the church and not your own possession." And finally he urged them "to exercise your ministry with gratitude."

The Archbishop further reminded them of the words they placed in their invitation which according to him describes the diaconal ministry: "You are called not to be served, but to serve," and that as deacons they are the servants of the altar, the Gospel, and of the poor.

The basilica was filled with family, friends, and members of the faithful who gathered to witness the said solemn occasion. The four deacons will spend allotted time in immersed pastoral ministry. Part of their roles are assisting priests at Mass, preaching, celebrating baptism, solemnizing marriage and offering prayers for the dead.