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FROM PILGRIMAGE TO PRIESTHOOD: THE ORDINATION OF THREE FAITHFUL SERVANTS

Dec. 05, 2025 05:46 PM

Manila, Philippines – November 29, 2025

A profound moment of grace filled the Minor Basilica and Cathedral Parish of the Immaculate Conception in Intramuros, Manila, as the Church celebrated the Eucharistic Celebration and Ordination to the Sacred Order of the Presbyterate of Rev. Marion Maquiraya, Rev. Richard Anthony Lim, and Rev. Erwin Esmaquilan. The sacred rite was presided over by His Eminence Jose F. Cardinal Advincula, Archbishop of Manila.

This milestone marks the culmination of the ordinandi’s years of spiritual, pastoral, human, and intellectual formation. Their steadfast response to God’s call reflects not only personal dedication but also their deep love for the Church and their desire to serve the People of God with humility and devotion.

A Homily Rooted in Pilgrimage and Purpose

In his homily, Cardinal Advincula recalled the newly ordained priests’ recent pilgrimage through the Camino de Santiago, a journey spanning more than 600 kilometers in Spain. The experience, he said, mirrors the lifelong pilgrimage of every priest challenging, transformative, and guided by God’s quiet yet constant presence.

He shared three key lessons that connect the Camino, the readings of the day, and the priestly vocation: FOLLOW, SLOW, and MELLOW.

FOLLOW

A prophet and likewise a priest does not rely on his own confidence but on God’s providence. “Ministry is never self-initiated,” the Cardinal explained. “It is always God who calls, and the priest simply responds.” He reminded the new priests that obedience to their bishop is essential in learning to follow Christ in their own Camino of priesthood.

SLOW

Cardinal Advincula emphasized that God often works in ways that are slow but deeply loving. “Slowliness and patience are signs of love,” he said. “Kapag nagmamadali, lalong nagkakamali.” Quoting a Visayan saying “Hinay-hinay, basta kanunay” (Slowly, but always) the Cardinal stressed that a priest becomes a living sacrament of God’s patience, just as God has been patient with them throughout their years of formation.

MELLOW

A priest is called to be gentle, calm, and compassionate a shepherd who reflects the tenderness of Christ. “I pray that you become priests who are truly pilgrims of hope obediently following, patiently slowing, and gently mellowing,” Cardinal Advincula concluded.

A Heartfelt Message of Gratitude

In his message of thanks, Fr. Marion Maquiraya began with a simple yet powerful plea: “Please, pray for us.”

He acknowledged that beyond the celebrations, priesthood is a lifelong mission that requires the constant prayers of the faithful. “Different beginnings yet leading to one mission as brothers in Christ. Different stories, but a common call to a lifelong service rooted in love,” he said.

The Symbol of the Pelican

Fr. Marion also reflected on one of the symbols chosen for their ordination, the pelican. Ancient tradition tells of the pelican wounding itself to feed its young with its own lifeblood in times of famine. The early Church adopted this as a symbol of Christ, whose sacrifice on the Cross brought salvation to all.

This imagery, he said, reminds every priest of the self-giving love required in priestly ministry: “To give of oneself, even when it wounds; to pour out one’s life so that others may live.”

He continued: “Kaya po, sa patuloy na pagdarasal ninyo sa amin bilang mga kalakbay, nawa’y lagi ninyo kaming paalalahanan sa aming mga pangako at sa aming matapat na pagsunod sa kalooban ng Diyos.” He concluded by expressing deep gratitude to their families, mentors, benefactors, and all who walked with them throughout their journey to the priesthood.

A New Chapter in Their Mission

As the Church welcomes its new priests, the faithful are invited to support them with prayer, encouragement, and presence. Their ordination is not merely a ceremonial moment but the beginning of a sacred mission to preach the Gospel, celebrate the sacraments, shepherd God’s people, and embody Christ’s love in a world yearning for hope.

May these newly ordained priests remain steadfast in their calling, walking each day as pilgrims of hope obedient, patient, gentle, and faithful to the heart of Christ.

 

 

Ge Lim / Quiapo Social Communictions