A significant milestone in the life and mission of the Order of Friar Servants of Mary (Servites) – St. Peregrine Philippine Vicariate was celebrated on July 16, 2026, as six Servite friars were ordained to the Sacred Order of Deacons during a solemn liturgical celebration held at St. Peregrine Laziosi Parish & Diocesan Shrine.

The ordination rite was presided over by Most Rev. Buenaventura M. Famadico, D.D., Bishop-Emeritus of the Diocese of San Pablo, on the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. The occasion gathered members of the clergy, religious communities, family members, friends, and faithful supporters who witnessed this important step in the vocational journey of the ordinands.

The newly ordained deacons are:

Fra. Anthony Ma. Pham Ngoc Nam, OSM
Fra. Anthony Ma. Cao Thanh Trung, OSM
Fra. Virgilio Ma. Sultan Jr., OSM
Fra. Arnold Ma. Tisuela, OSM
Fra. Jasper Ma. Bangud, OSM
Fra. Jonathan Ma. Tangente, OSM

Reflecting on the sacred ministry they were about to receive, Bishop Buenaventura reminded the ordinands that the diaconate is both a gift and a responsibility.

“In becoming deacons, you receive an honor not given to all. Be careful never to let this honor become a bribe. Instead, keep before you the example of Jesus. The mark of humility is obedience – obedience to God, obedience to your superiors, and the refusal to insist on your own will.”

The bishop emphasized that authentic ministry is rooted not in privilege or recognition but in humble service, following Christ who came not to be served but to serve. He encouraged the new deacons to model their lives after Jesus, whose obedience to the Father’s will became the foundation of His mission.

Bishop Buenaventura also reflected on the gift of celibacy, explaining that it is inseparable from the vocation of service. Drawing a parallel between marriage and ordained ministry, he noted that both are founded on self-giving love.

“Service is the foundation of this promise. When a man and a woman enter marriage, they do so in the spirit of service. The husband gives himself entirely to his wife, and the wife gives herself entirely to her husband, just as Jesus gave Himself completely for the Church. In the same way, a deacon and a priest give themselves to the Church, the Bride of Christ.”

The celebration reflected the Servite commitment to a life of prayer, service, and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Through the ordination, the newly ordained deacons have been entrusted with the ministry of proclaiming the Gospel, assisting at the altar, and serving God’s people with charity and humility.

The Order of Friar Servants of Mary expressed gratitude to all who participated in and supported the celebration. The ordination not only marks a personal milestone for the new deacons but also strengthens the mission of the Church as they begin this new chapter of ministry and service.

As the faithful continue to pray for these newly ordained deacons, may they remain steadfast in their calling and become instruments of hope, compassion, and faith wherever their ministry leads them.

Congratulations to the six newly ordained Servite Deacons. May Our Lady of Sorrows and St. Peregrine Laziosi guide and accompany them in their service to God and His people.