Last August 15, Rev. Jerome Emmanuel Guevara was ordained to the priesthood in the Oratory of St. Ignatius de Loyola, Loyola House of Studies (LHS), Philippines. The ordination started at 2p.m. and was presided by the Arch. of Cagayan de Oro, His Eminence Antonio J. Ledesma, DD. Since Jem was a former Arrupean, the Arrupe International Residence (AIR) Community came to witness the momentous event. Chinese delegates from Taiwan also came to join the celebration. After the mass, a simple refreshment followed at the Richie Fernando Covered Court near LHS.
Two days after the ordination, the AIR Community was also invited by Mr. Ricardo and Mrs. Amelita Guevara to share in the joyful first Mass of their son, Fr Jem. The Holy Eucharist was celebrated in the Sanctuario de San Antonio Church, Forbes Park, Makati City at 6:00 p.m. Co-presiders were the parish priest, Fr Antonio Ma. Rosales, OFM, Fr Jose Cecilio J. Magadia, Philippine Provincial, Fr Louis Gendron, Provincial of the Chinese Province, and other Jesuit and Franciscan priests. In his homily, Fr Jem shared his recent twelve years of being a Jesuit. Aiming to become a missionary in Taiwan, he spent his regency as a chaplain to the youth in Taiwan. He took his theological studies there. These experiences strengthened his desire to be a missionary. The late Pope John Paul II inspired him some more when he said that the Philippines as a Catholic country has the responsibility to send missionaries in Asia. Fr Jem expressed his deep gratitude for all the prayers and support that have been offered by his families, friends and fellow Jesuits. He especially thanked his mother, who was the Choir Conductor, for the beautiful songs during the mass.
The guests then proceeded to hearty reception dinner at the Dasmarinas Village Pavilion.