Two Adorno Religious Ordained in Maragondon, Philippines
MARAGONDON, PHILIPPINES — In a historic and joyful celebration, the Order of Clerics Regular Minor (Adorno Fathers) and the parish community of Our Lady of the Assumption Church witnessed the ordination of two religious men to the Sacred Orders on Monday, May 19, 2025.
Brother Mark Jendam, CRM, was ordained to the diaconate, and Deacon Jordhan Valencia, CRM, was ordained to the priesthood during a solemn Eucharistic liturgy presided over by Most Rev. Reynaldo Evangelista, D.D., Bishop of Imus. The ordination Mass took place in the parish church of Maragondon, Cavite, filled to capacity with faithful parishioners, clergy, religious, and family members.
The Mass was concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Teodoro O. Kalaw, CRM, Superior General of the Adorno Fathers, and Rev. Fr. Liam Reza M. Panganiban, CRM, Delegate Superior of the St. Michael the Archangel Delegation, along with numerous members of the clergy.
In his homily, Bishop Evangelista spoke on the sacred duties of ordained ministers, emphasizing witness, holiness, and shepherding. He reminded all present that the call to holiness is not limited to the ordained but extends to the entire People of God.
The ordination of Fr. Jordhan Valencia marks a significant moment for the parish of Maragondon, as it is the first priestly ordination held in the parish in 23 years. His ordination also makes him the 23rd Filipino priest of the Adorno Fathers, reflecting the steady growth of vocations in the Philippine delegation.
Following the Mass, Fr. Kalaw expressed gratitude for the occasion. “This is a day of great joy for the entire Congregation. We thank God for these new laborers in the vineyard and for the support of their families and this vibrant parish community,” he said.
The Sacrament of Holy Orders configures the ordained to Christ in unique ways: as a deacon, Brother Mark is now entrusted with serving the Word, the altar, and the people of God; as a priest, Fr. Jordhan is conformed to Christ the Good Shepherd, empowered to celebrate the Eucharist, absolve sins, anoint the sick, and lead the faithful in sanctification.
That afternoon, Fr. Jordhan celebrated his First Mass of Thanksgiving, a moment of deep reverence and spiritual joy for the community. The liturgical celebrations were followed by a fraternal meal, where clergy, family, and parishioners shared in fellowship and gratitude.
The day marked a milestone not only for the ordinands but also for the St. Michael the Archangel Delegation of the Adorno Fathers. With renewed hope and missionary zeal, the congregation continues its mission of evangelization and service inspired by its founders: St. Francis Caracciolo, Venerable Augustine Adorno, and Fr. Fabrizio Caracciolo.
The ordinations are viewed as a sign of God’s continuing work in raising up servants for the Church—men anointed to preach the Gospel, celebrate the sacraments, and minister with love and humility.
Reported by Fr. Sebastian Thomas, CRM
For inquiries or vocation information, please contact the Adorno Fathers - St. Michael the Archangel Delegation, Philippines.
