Priests promise to shun worldly pleasures as they renew vows

BE extensions of God’s love and mercy to others.

This was the challenge of Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma to the Cebu clergy as he led the renewal of priestly vows at the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral last Wednesday.

“Charity is not just a concept. It is something we must carry out. As we experienced God’s love in our lives, may we also become instruments of His love to others,” he told the congregation.

The 65-year-old prelate said every priest should emulate Jesus Christ who instituted the Sacrament of Holy Orders or priesthood out of love for mankind.

“Jesus’ ministry was an expression of charity. And as we renew our priestly promises, we unite our allegiance to Him. May we also become expression of God’s love and mercy to other people especially those in the peripheries,” Palma said.

Members of the Cebu clergy renewed their priestly vows to shun worldly pleasures, to be faithful to God and His Church, and to carry out the sacraments.

Traditionally, priests renew their promises in the morning of Maundy Thursday to commemorate the institution of the priesthood.

In Cebu, however, the event is celebrated a week earlier so that priests, especially those from far-flung parishes, could attend.

Present during the celebration were Archbishop Emeritus of Cebu Ricardo Cardinal Vidal, Cebu Auxiliary Bishops Dennis Villarojo and Oscar Florencio, as well as retired bishops Antonio Rañola, Emilio Bataclan and Christian Noel.

During the Mass, Palma also blessed the oils that will be used by priests in administering the sacraments of baptism, confirmation, anointing of the sick and holy orders.

Palma urged all priests to be inspired by the life and ministry of the late Cebuano Bishop Teofilo Camomot who was known for his simplicity, love of the poor, holiness, and extreme generosity.

Camomot’s cause for sainthood has been processed by the Archdiocese of Cebu.

“We thank God for the gift of Archbishop Camomot. He knew that everything is a gift and should be shared to the poor. May his virtue of charity become ours also,” Palma said.