First Ordained Priest in St. Justin Maria Russolillo Quasi Parish

With immense joy and appreciation, one of the deacons of the Society of Divine Vocations (SDV), Rev. Junryl Ma. D. Meking, received the Sacrament of Holy Orders on January 18, 2025. He is the first priest to be ordained in St. Justin Maria Russolillo Quasi Parish.

The celebration was led by the Bishop of the Diocese of Mati, Most Rev. Abel C. Apigo, D.D., together with the four deacons of the delegation of SDV, and diocesan priests.

Rev. Fr. Junryl Ma. D. Meking, SDV, holds a degree in Sacred Theology from the Pontificia Facoltá Teologica dell’Italia Meridionale-Sezione San Luigi in Posillipo, Naples, Italy. He was ordained as a deacon on July 31, 2024, in Pianura, Naples, Italy, through the imposition of hands by His Excellency Most Rev. Vincenzo Pelvi, Archbishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Foggia-Bovino.

Fr. Meking has a passion for music, particularly singing, and enjoys cooking in his free time. He is also a dedicated animal lover. One notable experience in his life was serving as an acolyte during the Holy Mass celebrated by Pope Francis on the occasion of the canonization of St. Justin Russolillo and other Catholic saints. This opportunity highlighted his commitment to the Church and his deep reverence for the faith.

In his homily, Bishop Apigo said, “Imbes na libakon ug dauton, palihog i-ampo kaming tanan aron ang mga dautan dili mopatigbabaw sa among kinabuhi,” reminding the parishioners and Rev. Meking’s family to pray for him as he takes on his new path as a priest.

At the end of the ceremony, Rev. Fr. Junryl D. Meking, SDV, expressed his gratitude for the support coming from his family, benefactors, formators and SDV delegation.

The ceremony was a beautiful expression of faith, filled with solemn rituals and heartfelt prayers, marking the beginning of a new and important chapter in his life. Congratulations to the newly ordained priest, Rev. Fr. Junryl Ma. Meking, SDV! A day of joy and celebration as you begin your priestly ministry. May your path be filled with blessings and guidance. (Erica Vette Pasaylo & Mary Grace Sumili)