On this Feast of St. John Mary Vianney, patron of diocesan priests, members of the presbyterium of the Archdiocese of Cebu gathered at San Carlos Seminary College for the blessing and groundbreaking ceremony of the El Campo Santo de Presbiteros, the future common burial ground for the deceased priests of the Archdiocese of Cebu.

The ceremony began with a song of praise led by the SCSC seminarians, followed by the presentation of the project by Msgr. Rogelio T. Fuentes, Vicar General of the Archdiocese.

In his message, Msgr. Fuentes shared that the project is a product of consultation, and of the cry and desire of the clergy for a common burial ground. He also recalled that the project carries with it the dream and plans of the former Archbishops of Cebu, whose vision for a common resting place for the diocesan clergy is now gradually taking shape.

The Blessing and Groundbreaking Rites were then led by Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy.

“Our ultimate destination is the heart of God,” said Archbishop Abet in his message.

The good Archbishop expressed his immense joy that the dream of his predecessors is finally becoming a reality. He emphasized the importance of having a common burial place for the deceased clergy, where they may rest together as brothers in the priesthood and await with hope the joy of the Resurrection.

He also expressed his gratitude to all who have shared their time, resources, and efforts for the realization of this historic project of the Archdiocese.

May Jesus Christ, the Eternal High Priest, continue to pour out His blessings upon this undertaking, through the intercession of St. John Mary Vianney.