Ormoc City, Leyte — On July 5, 2026, seven Claretian novices made their First Evangelical Profession during a solemn Eucharistic Celebration at the Chapel of St. Anthony Mary Claret. Centered on the theme, “Here I Am, Lord; I Come to Do Your Will” (cf. Psalm 40), the sacred event marked a definitive step forward for these young missionaries.
Brothers Hoang Van Loi, CMF; Joseph Rainy T. Amporias, CMF; Nguyen Minh Nhat, CMF; Michael M. Granda, CMF; Tran Duc Bao, CMF; Pham Anh Tuan, CMF; and Tran Xuan Hieu, CMF, professed the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Their vows were received by the Very Rev. Fr. Amador C. “Ama” Tumbaga, CMF, Provincial Superior of the Fr. Rhoel Gallardo Province.
Through this sacred act, the newly professed formally became members of the Claretian Missionaries, embracing the missionary charism entrusted to the Church by Saint Anthony Mary Claret. This event marks the formal beginning of their journey in consecrated missionary life—a generous, firsthand response to God’s call to proclaim the Gospel.
The celebration brought together Claretian confreres, religious and diocesan priests, scholastics, benefactors, mission partners, and friends. Many family members made the long journey from Vietnam to witness the joyful commitment of these young missionaries. Together, the congregation gathered in prayer to support the brothers’ deep desire to follow Jesus Christ more closely and dedicate their lives to the service of the Church.
In his homily, Fr. Ama reminded the newly professed that a vocation to the missionary life is never imposed; rather, it is a choice freely and wholeheartedly made in response to God’s invitation. Reflecting on the profound nature of a spiritual calling, Fr. Ama explained that to be called is to be personally recognized by God. Just as the Good Shepherd knows each of His sheep by name, God calls everyone with a unique purpose and mission. Consequently, he invited the newly professed to live out this calling daily with fidelity, joy, and a spirit of generous service.
The entire Claretian family extends its heartfelt congratulations to the newly professed brothers, assuring them of continued prayers as they begin this new chapter of religious life. May they remain steadfast in their vocation, faithful to their vows, and courageous in their ministry—always inflamed with the love of Christ and inspired by the missionary spirit of Saint Anthony Mary Claret.
“The love of Christ impels us” (2 Corinthians 5:14). May this divine love continue to inspire and sustain these brothers as they joyfully go forth to proclaim the Gospel to the ends of the earth.
by: Novice Rhover David A. Ramirez
