From altar boy to priest: Fr. Jess Samaniego’s Vocation Journey of Faith and Service

From a young age, I sensed a quiet stirring deep within my heart—a gentle whisper calling me toward something beyond myself. Growing up in a devout Catholic family, Sundays carried a sacred rhythm. We never missed Mass, and in those quiet moments of worship, I often felt an unexplainable pull toward God’s presence. Though I could not fully understand it then, those early experiences of prayer and community planted a seed of faith within me—a seed that, in time, would grow into a tree.

When I reached Grade 4, I took a step closer to that call by becoming an altar server at The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Calinan, my home parish. Serving at the altar became more than just a Sunday duty—it was an invitation to encounter God’s mystery up close. I was captivated by the beauty of the liturgy, the solemn prayers, and the peace that filled the church.

Our parish priest, Rev. Fr. Edgar Rodriguez, played a vital role in nurturing my early faith. His reverence at the altar, pastoral dedication, and fatherly care left a deep mark on my heart. Through his example, I realized that priesthood was not merely about leading prayers, but about loving and serving God’s people with compassion.

Through my high school years, I continued serving as an altar boy, and with each passing year, the call to priesthood grew stronger. Watching Fr. Rodriguez and the other priests minister with humility and joy inspired me to follow the same path. By the time I finished high school, I knew I had to take this inner calling seriously.

Following this desire, I entered St. Francis Xavier College Seminary. Seminary life opened for me a deeper journey of faith. Each day was filled with prayer, study, and community life: the celebration of the Eucharist, praying the Liturgy of the Hours, reading Scripture, and immersing myself in the traditions of the Church. But formation was not only spiritual—it was also practical. I learned to wash my clothes, iron, and participate in Manualia, where simple household chores became lessons in humility and discipline.

My rector, Msgr. Julius S. Tonel, DD., guided us with wisdom and dedication. His example of priestly leadership and pastoral care left a lasting impression. Later, when he became Vice Rector of the Regional Major Seminary, his influence continued to shape my understanding of priesthood. Today, he serves as Archbishop of Zamboanga, a living witness to a lifetime of faithful service.

After Msgr. Tonel’s term, Msgr. Edgar Labagala succeeded him as rector and later became my parish priest in Calinan. His deep spirituality and humble witness helped me realize that priesthood is not about status or authority, but about service rooted in love.

After completing my college formation, I continued at the St. Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary of Mindanao, where my journey deepened further in theology and pastoral formation. Once again, Msgr. Tonel was there—this time as Dean of Seminarians and later as Vice Rector. What a grace it was to be guided by him through another important chapter of my vocation journey.

I was also blessed to be formed under Fr. Antonio Pernia, SVD, my first rector in theology, and Fr. Romulo G. Valles, who later became Archbishop of Davao. Those years helped me understand that priesthood is not simply a profession, but a way of life—a continuous “yes” to God’s call to serve His people.

On November 13, 1993, during my fourth year in theology, I was ordained a deacon. It was a moment of awe and gratitude—a tangible reminder that God’s call was unfolding before me. Then, on April 18, 1994, in my beloved parish of Calinan, I was ordained a priest, together with my dear friend and classmate Fr. Abel C. Apigo, now Bishop of Mati.

The ordination was presided over by Archbishop Antonio Ll. Mabutas, DD., who had been Archbishop of Davao since my childhood. It was also a profound blessing that Msgr. Labagala, my former rector, was my parish priest at that time—offering continuity and fatherly guidance. Surrounded by my family, friends, and parish community, I knelt before the archbishop and felt the weight of his hands upon my head. In that sacred moment, I gave my life completely to the service of God and His Church.

As I celebrated my First Mass, I was filled with gratitude—for the priests and mentors who formed me, for the people who prayed for me, and for the grace that sustained me through every challenge.

Now, as I look back on 31 years of priesthood, I see my vocation as a beautiful journey of faith and grace. The path has not always been easy, but it has been filled with meaning: in every baptism and wedding, every confession and funeral, every Mass and moment of prayer. These are the sacred moments where I continue to meet God—in His people, in their stories, and in their faith.

The priesthood is a gift. It began as a small seed planted in a young boy’s heart and, through God’s mercy, has grown into a life of service and love.

As I continue this journey, I humbly ask for your prayers—that I may remain faithful to the mission entrusted to me, rooted always in Christ’s love, and steadfast in serving His people.

The seed planted so many years ago has grown into a flourishing tree—rooted in faith and reaching out to all who seek the love and mercy of God. (Rev. Fr. Jesus Samaniego)