Seventeen Brothers Admitted to the Novitiate in Solemn Rite of Initiation

Editorial Note from the Custody of St. Anthony – Malaysia, Singapore & Brunei

We are pleased to share this joyful news from the OFM Province of San Pedro Bautista, Philippines. Among the seventeen brothers admitted to the novitiate is Br. Maximillian Alexson Anak Michael Keriben, OFM, a member of our Custody. He is currently in the Philippines for his novitiate year with the wider Franciscan community. Let us continue to keep him and all the novices in our prayers.

Friar Maximillian receiving his novitiate habit.

Liliw, Laguna – May 29, 2025 — In a solemn and grace-filled liturgical rite, seventeen young novitiateofficially received into the religious life as novices during the Rite of Initiation at the Juan de Plasencia Novitiate House. The sacred ceremony, conducted during Midday Prayer, was presided over by Br. Lino Gregorio V. Redoblado, OFM, Minister Provincial.

As a visible sign of their commitment, the brothers were vested in the habit of probation, marking their formal entry into the Franciscan Order. With the blessing of the habit, they embraced a life dedicated to prayer, fraternity, and service, following in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi.

Upon the conclusion of the rite, Br. Lino entrusted the newly received novices to the guidance and formation of their novice master, Br. Mark Angelo Vito, OFM, who will oversee their spiritual and communal growth throughout their novitiate year.

The Province rejoices in this momentous occasion and offers fervent prayers that these seventeen brothers may persevere in their vocation, advancing in faith and devotion as they embark on their journey within the consecrated life.

Province of San Pedro Bautista – Philippines