Today, July 7, 2025, four Augustinian novices made their First Profession of Religious Vows to the Order of Saint Augustine at the Sto. Niño de Cebu Parish, Mohon, Talisay City.

Fray Reymark A. Carcedo, Fray John Rey P. Laureano, and Fray Earl John C. Mutia from the Province of Santo Niño de Cebu–Philippines, along with Fray Jay Vee I. Ventura from the Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel of Australasia, professed their religious vows.

In an interview, Fray Carcedo expressed his gratitude for the wonderful gift of vocation and shared that he felt blessed after making his First Simple Profession of Vows.

The Prior Provincial of the Province of Santo Niño de Cebu–Philippines, Very Rev. Fr. Andrew P. Batayola, OSA, received their vows and presided over the Eucharistic Celebration.

During his homily, Fr. Batayola, OSA asked them to reflect deeply on what they have truly given up in following Christ, reminding them that discipleship requires surrendering everything for the Kingdom.

Drawing from the Gospel, he emphasized that following Jesus brings both a privileged spiritual position and the promise of reward to those who embrace poverty and mission.

The first reading’s image of a seal upon the heart signifies how a religious profession stamps one’s identity in Christ, and he challenged the novices to determine if they are ready to be marked by this commitment.

Citing St. Augustine, he urged them not to delay in making their vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, which, along with the “fourth vow” of common life, invite them to discover the deeper joy of the Gospel.

Finally, he expressed gratitude to the parents for offering their sons to God, affirming that what the newly professed friars have chosen to give up will lead them to the true joy of living for Christ in the Augustinian way of life.

Friars and seminarians from the Province were present during the rite, together with the families and relatives of the candidates. Also in attendance were a friar representing the Province of Our Mother of Good Counsel of Australasia and the superior of the Augustinian Delegation of St. Nicholas of Tolentine in Korea.

The Holy Mass concluded with a photo opportunity with the newly professed friars, their immediate family members, and Augustinian friars.

Let us continue to pray for them as they go forward in their Augustinian journey, living in oneness of heart and mind on the way to God.

In Deum!

For more photos, visit Province of Santo Niño de Cebu-Philippines Facebook page.