The Memorial of Blessed Timothy Giaccardo on October 19, 2024 was a special event for the Paulines in the Philippines as Fr. Joel Baguna SSP celebrated his 25th Anniversary of Priestly Ordination. Flanked on the altar by his older brother Fr. Victor Baguna of the Diocese of Antique, and by Provincial Superior Fr. Mario Sobrejuanite SSP, Fr. Baguna presided at the Mass at 9:30 in the morning at the Sanctuary of St. Paul in Makati. Concelebrating with him were SSP priest-concelebrants. Family members, numerous relatives and friends in Manila and from Antique, and members of the Pauline Family came to offer him their best wishes. Because of ailment, Fr. Baguna said only portions of the rites with Fr. Victor taking his place as presider in the latter part of the Mass.
The Provincial Superior gave the homily, presenting Blessed Timothy Giaccardo, the first Pauline priest, as a faithful disciple of the Founder, Blessed James Alberione. Giaccardo offered his life for the Pontifical approval of the Pious Disciples of the Divine Master. Known for his intelligence, humility, and fidelity, the Founder could even say that he trusted Giaccardo more than himself.
Coming from Antique, Fr. Baguna entered the Congregation on June 5, 1987, made his First Religious Profession on June 10, 1990 and was ordained priest by Msgr. Gabriel Reyes on October 22, 1999. His priestly ministry found him assigned to the different SSP communities taking various responsibilities. This is referred to by the Superior General Fr. Domenico Soliman SSP in his Message, read by Fr. Khris Emmanuel Llacer SSP before the end of the Mass: “Your Pauline ministry has been marked by your work in the Bookstore, in Distribution, in Formation as Novice and Postulants Master, as Community Superior, Apostolate Director, and more. I am grateful for the tasks you have carried out and continue to perform with generosity. I remember you in my prayers and accompany you in spirit, especially during these recent times when you are going through difficulties with your health.”
Fr. Baguna, with a firm and affectionate voice, thanked everyone present and gave the final blessing. In the reception that followed at the Alberione Hall, he moved around to greet and pose for photo-ops with visitors.
