A Heart Ready for Compassion: Sacred Heart Brothers Celebrate Perpetual Profession and 25 Years of Consecrated Life

On August 15, 2026, the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Brothers of the Sacred Heart gathered in thanksgiving at the St. Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary Chapel in Catalunan Grande, Davao City. The celebration marked the perpetual profession of religious vows of Brother Joel Compacion Añasco, S.C., and the 25th anniversary of the perpetual profession of Brother Romelito Tampos Valen, S.C.

Presided over by Rev. Fr. Patrick Devlin, SM, Episcopal Vicar for Consecrated Life of the Archdiocese of Davao, the Holy Mass highlighted the spirituality of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart: a vocation centered on love, mercy, and active compassion, especially toward those experiencing difficult circumstances.

The bleeding heart of Jesus, reflected in the congregation’s logo, served as a powerful symbol throughout the celebration. It reminded the brothers of their call to become instruments of God’s love and mercy—“Brothers of love, brothers of compassion.”

A Heart That Said Yes

Brother Joel’s perpetual profession marked his definitive commitment to religious life and to the Rule of Life of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart. Among the significant moments of the rite was the placing of the crucifix around his neck, symbolizing his identity and lifelong commitment as a religious brother.

The blessing, signing of the book, and reading of the letter of the congregation’s founder, Fr. André Coindre, connected Brother Joel’s personal “yes” to the continuing mission and heritage of the congregation. The Brothers also renewed their religious vows, expressing their continued fidelity to their vocation.

Choosing the Solemnity of the Assumption for his perpetual profession reflected Brother Joel’s devotion to Mary, whose life exemplifies complete surrender to God’s will. His thanksgiving message also expressed gratitude to the people who accompanied and supported him throughout his vocation, particularly his family.

Twenty-Five Years of a Faithful “Yes”

The celebration also honored Brother Romelito, who marked 25 years of perpetual profession. His anniversary represented not only the passage of time but also decades of fidelity, perseverance, service, and love.

His renewal of vows emphasized that religious commitment is not simply a promise made once, but a “yes” continually lived and renewed. His sister and fellow brothers also shared in celebrating his journey as a son, sibling, friend, and servant who has dedicated his life to consecrated service.

“My Heart Is Ready”

The Paratum Cor Meum Chorale from Cor Jesu College in Digos, Davao del Sur, provided music for the celebration. Paratum Cor Meum, meaning “My heart is ready,” beautifully captured the spirit of the occasion: a heart ready to say yes, to serve, to love, and to be open in compassion for others.

At the heart of the Brothers’ spirituality is Sacre Cor—the Sacred Heart of Jesus—from which flows the love and compassion that inspire their mission.

A Legacy of Love Continues

The celebration was joined by Provincial Superior Brother Ronald Hingle, S.C., members of the congregation, families, friends, benefactors, and the wider community.

The simultaneous celebration of a first perpetual profession and a 25th anniversary offered a meaningful picture of the continuing story of consecrated life. One brother stood at the beginning of a lifetime commitment, while another celebrated 25 years of fidelity. Both stood before the same Sacred Heart and answered the same call: to allow God to use their lives as instruments of love and compassion.

On the Solemnity of Mary’s Assumption, the Brothers of the Sacred Heart celebrated more than two milestones. They celebrated an enduring truth: a heart given to God becomes a heart ready for others. (Rowena Baldoza-Villaflor, OLLP SoCCom)