UNO-Recoletos: Fr. President celebrates 25th sacerdotal anniversary

Rev. Fr. Joel A. Alve, OAR, University President, thanked the Lord for His faithfulness and graces as he celebrated his 25th Sacerdotal Anniversary last October 30, 2024. He celebrated his Silver Jubilee with a Thanksgiving Mass at the Oratory of St. Nicholas of Tolentino. His brother Priests and religious of the Order joined him, especially his classmates Fr. Jose Ernil Almayo, OAR, Fr. Charlito Orobia, OAR, and Fr. Randolph Castillo, Jr.,  OAR. The preacher was Fr. Anthony Morillo, OAR, Provincial Councilor and cousin of Fr. Alve. The Homilist was Fr. Almayo.

Fr. Almayo opened his homily with, "There is so much reason to thank the Lord, for He has made many things known to us. Rejoice and be glad." He shared that there are things that we need to do in this world. First, the need for everyone to rediscover the Lordship of Jesus. Like our jubilarian and the rest, we must say, "I am yours, Lord, and with You I am nothing." Second, there is a need to put into practice the teachings of Jesus. We have to bring peace in every household and remember that this is the fundamental instruction and guideline of Jesus.   Third, there is the need to follow the positivity of Jesus (Optimism of Jesus). We must open our hearts to the Holy Spirit, and as leaders, we need to lead instead of breaking up communities. He ended his homily by asking, "How to be you, classmate?" Everything is the grace of God and is to be shared by the community. 

The celebrant thanked everyone for their prayers and encouragement as he has served and will continue to serve God. He also said that he could not be here today without God's grace and gifts. He thanked his Parents (+) and siblings for their understanding and prayers during his journey in serving the people of God.

A small gathering was held at the President's Hall after the Mass. Dr. Ofelia Posecion, former Dean of the UNO-R College of Education, Hazel Alver Brown, and Fr. Anthony Morillo, OAR..  Lunch followed at the university gymnasium.