On August 5, 2023, a profound and solemn event took place at the San Agustin Center of Studies (SACS), where eight Augustinian friars made their Solemn Profession of Vows, marking their perpetual commitment to the Church and the Order of Saint Augustine. This milestone signifies their lifelong dedication to serving our Lord Jesus Christ as Augustinian friars.
The friars who made their solemn profession are:
- Fray Fevin T. Baoc, OSA
- Fray Alberto C. Bartiana Jr., OSA
- Fray Ronelle S. Dogon, OSA
- Fray Eugenio O. Reserva, OSA
- Fray Albert Benedict B. Soliman, OSA
- Fray Jules Van V. Almerez, OSA
- Fray James N. Dosado, OSA
- Fray Keith Lawrence J. Ermac, OSA
Very Rev. Fr. Andres D. Rivera Jr., OSA, Prior Provincial, received their vows on behalf of Very Rev. Fr. Alejandro Moral Anton, OSA, Prior General. The ceremony was attended by Augustinian priests, brothers, family members, and friends who gathered to witness and celebrate this significant moment.
In his homily, Fr. Rivera emphasized that “religious life is a vocation, an invitation towards holiness.” He highlighted that the friars’ solemn profession reflects a commitment to strive for holiness rather than personal perfection. Their dedication to the evangelical counsels of chastity, poverty, and obedience serves as a guiding light amid the complexities of life. Fr. Rivera urged the community to support and pray for the newly professed friars as they embark on this sacred journey. He reminded them to approach their vocation with humility and to view their solemn profession not as a personal achievement but as a testament to their devotion to God’s service.
Before the final blessing, Fr. Nestor Bandalan Jr., OSA, Provincial Secretary, announced the assignments of the newly solemn professed friars, who are expected to report to their respective communities on August 15, 2023:
- Fray Fevin T. Baoc, OSA – Member, Santa Ana Residence, Burgos, Surigao del Norte
- Fray Alberto C. Bartiana Jr., OSA – Member, Santa Ana Residence, Burgos, Surigao del Norte
- Fray Ronelle S. Dogon, OSA – Member, Guipos Residence, Guipos, Zamboanga del Sur
- Fray Eugenio O. Reserva, OSA – Member, Santo Niño Mission Station, Vintar, Ilocos Norte
- Fray Albert Benedict B. Soliman, OSA – Member, Saguday Residence, Quirino
- Fray Jules Van V. Almerez, OSA – Member, Colegio San Agustin, Biñan City, Laguna
- Fray James N. Dosado, OSA – Member, Colegio San Agustin, Bacolod City
- Fray Keith Lawrence J. Ermac, OSA – Member, Provincialate Community, Cebu City
With these solemn professions, the total number of solemn professed friars in the Province has reached 135. This remarkable event stands as a testament to the power of unwavering faith and the pursuit of holiness. The dedication of these friars inspires the Order and the wider community, showcasing the enduring call to serve and glorify God through their lives.