Parañaque City, the Philippines, 25 June 2021 -- On the solemnity of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, 24 June 2021, Bishop Broderick Pabillo, DD, ordained Deacon Cyril Vincent Saldana Noel, SDB into the sacred order of Presbyters in the National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians.

As the youngest priest of the Salesians of Philippine North Province (FIN), Fr. Cyril chose the pericope of Jeremiah 3: 15, "Then I will give you shepherds after My own heart," as his ordination motto. This emphasizes the importance of unity with the Great Shepherd, to not only become a mere shepherd but moreover, should be a shepherd after the heart of God.

In his homily, Bishop Pabillo invited everyone to thank God for the gift of a vocation and pray for those who received it from God. In line with his motto, Fr. Cyril was reminded to be a shepherd with the heart of Jesus, the meek and humble heart.

The newly ordained priest shared his humble gratitude to God after calling back to his vocation journey. All are grace, in the right time and situation God touched his heart. Fr. Cyril also realized that it is through the support of the family, friends, and confreres, he can hear and joyfully answer the call of God.

The new priest is a gift from God for the Church. Let us thank God for the gift of the new priest and continue to pray for Fr. Cyril for his future ministry and joyful perseverance.