A Shepherd for Migrants: Rev. Fr. Dexter Veloso

As the Catholic community continues to strive for a more compassionate and caring world, the appointment of Rev. Fr. Dexter Veloso as the new priest-in-charge of the Commission for Pastoral Care for Migrants and Itinerant People in the Archdiocese of Davao is a beacon of hope and a testament to the Church’s unwavering commitment to serve the marginalized and the oppressed.

In a recent interview with Herald, Fr. Veloso shared his humble and faithful perspective on his new ministry. Despite being surprised by his appointment, he humbly accepted the responsibility with the grace of God in his heart. Fr. Veloso views his appointment not as a matter of personal preference, but as a divine duty to serve and care for those in need.

“If I can, with God’s grace, we should not refuse because it’s the church’s responsibility to care for these people most especially the overseas workers and their families,” Fr. Veloso told Herald.

Fr. Veloso’s passion for his new ministry is rooted in his personal experience and connection with migrant workers and their families. Many of his siblings, as well as his first cousins, have been working overseas for many years. With this stated, he understands the challenges they face, as well as the struggles of the families they leave behind. As such, he is committed to not only caring for the migrant workers themselves but also for their families left behind, especially the minors who face a challenging reality in these times.

Despite his busy schedule as a parish priest, Fr. Veloso remains steadfast in his commitment to his new ministry. Being a priest for 22 years, he recognizes the importance of discipline and time management in managing his responsibilities. Moreover, he acknowledged the support of others, including the nuns who will assist him in his work. “As I heard from him [Archbishop Romulo Valles], there will be sisters who will be assisting me in this ministry since it is also their ministry. Therefore, I will not be working alone.”

Dedicating his message to the migrants and their families, Fr. Veloso emphasizes his commitment to working with them, to help alleviate their hardships and struggles. He recognizes that the work ahead of him is intensive and challenging, but the excitement is evident within him. Moreover, he is hopeful about the potential to make a difference in the lives of those he will serve.

In this time of uncertainty and turmoil, Fr. Veloso’s appointment brings a message of hope and faith to the Catholic community. His unwavering commitment to serving the marginalized and the needy is a reminder that the Church’s mission is not only to preach the Gospel but to put it into action through service and love. May his work be blessed and fruitful, and may it inspire others to join in the Church’s mission of caring for those in need. (Eleazar James Manalastas)