Clerics Anthony John “AJ” Javier and Christian “Ted” Tafalla pronounced their perpetual vows in the Society of St. Paul at the Sanctuary of St. Paul in Makati in the afternoon of December 12, 2023, the memorial of Our Lady of Guadalupe, patroness of the Philippines. The concelebrated Mass was presided by the Provincial Superior Fr. Mario Sobrejuanite who also received the vows. Present in the Mass were members of SSP communities, Pauline Family representatives, the candidates’ families, friends and benefactors.
“AJ” Javier hails from Bacoor, Cavite. He obtained from St. Paul Seminary his degree in Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Communications. He made his first profession of vows on June 4, 2017 and did his theological studies at the Loyola School of where he is pursuing his Master’s degree in biblical studies. Presently, he is the manager of the Graphics section of St Pauls.
Christian Tafalla hails from Abuyog, Leyte. He likewise obtained from St. Paul Seminary his degree in Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Communications. He made his first profession of vows on June 3, 2012 and finished his theological studies at the Loyola School of Theology. Presently, he heads the Provincial Services Office.
In his homily, Fr. Sobrejuanite noted that in our world of “what is there for me?” some people might think it foolishness to embrace a vocation that does not promise power, wealth, or material enjoyment. He said that those who profess the vows need not be afraid to be different, to be counter-cultural, as the vows are a “counter-sign” of God’s tremendous love—God’s love for them and their love for God.
In turn, in his message to the neo-perpetually professed, Superior General Don Domenico Soliman referred to the Blessed Virgin Mary: “It is beautiful that you celebrate this event on the memorial of Our Lady of Guadalupe, thus, remembering the presence of Mary in your life. She will continue to accompany you in your journey of Pauline life, to help you always grow more in knowing and in communion with her Divine Son, who during this Advent, in preparation for Christmas, we are expecting with joy.
“AJ” Javier thanked everyone present and asked for everyone’s prayers. In addition, Fr. Mario thanked the families and relatives of the neo-perpetual members for offering them to the service of the Lord, of the Congregation, and of the Church. Indeed, they are the first “benefactors.”
The agapē reception was done in the Alberione Hall.
