Fr. Marlon “Lonx” Eleosida, Fr. Rusty Dizon, and Fr. Donnie Duchin Duya–Fr. Jake’s classmates – read the articles of the Salesian constitution. Fr. Rusty, also the outgoing Province secretary, read the decree
of nomination in both Italian and English languages.
Present in the celebration are the family of the new rector, the benefactors of the community, shrine ministers, members of the Salesian family, and the aspirants who also served as the choir for the Mass. The assembly’s joyful participation contributed to the solemnity of the event.
In his homily, Fr. Martin explained that the new rector’s role as the father of the community may also be faced with aggression and difficulties. “Even Don Bosco will not promise you that it will be all roses; there will be thorns definitely along the way.” But he must respond, like Jesus, with meekness, humility, and kindness.
In his message as the new rector, Fr. Jake shared his anxiety about his new responsibilities, but he was consoled by the words of Sr. Mary Francis, a member of the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary, “Fear holds the place that belongs to love.”
The event was capped with a lunch program prepared by the Prenovitiate community where the outgoing formators, outgoing rector Fr. Martin Macasaet, outgoing spiritual moderator Joseph Fernandez, SDB, and outgoing practical trainee Cl. Jerick Magsino, SDB, were given a tribute and opportunity to express their gratitude to the community.
