On the 25th of March 2017, the Solemnity of the Annunciation, when the Word was Incarnate, Archbishop Ramon C. Argüelles, Archbishop Emeritus of Lipa ordained Rev. Matias of the Institute of the Incarnate Word (IVE) to the Sacred Priesthood of Jesus Christ in the Metropolitan Cathedral of San Sebastian.

The joyous event was concelebrated by the priests of our Institute and many others who came from the various parts of our Province. The parish priest of where the House of Formation is located also came to join the celebration. Our parishioners from Hong Kong, Taiwan and Philippines, as well the neighbors from ‘Cuatro Santos’ also came to witness the ordination.

It was a truly momentous occasion as Fr. Matias is the first priest to have fully completed his training at the Our Lady of Sheshan Major House of Formation since its inception in 2009. Also significant is the fact that Archbishop Ramon Argüelles, who received our Institute in Lipa and permitted us to locate our Houses of Formation here was the ordaining prelate of our First Priest.

A small celebration was held at the Dining Hall of the Seminary for friends, family and guests who attended the ceremony.

First Mass of Fr. Matias, IVE

The following day, March 26th, Laetare Sunday, Fr. Matias celebrated his first Mass in the temporary chapel of the Seminary which was also concelebrated by the priests of our Institute.

After the Mass, the people, including many of our neighbors and those living in the surrounding areas who attended the First Mass had the opportunity to venerate the hands of the newly ordained priest.

A festive luncheon followed, prepared by neighbors, well-wishers and members of our Third Order.