December 3, 2024 - Memorial of Saint Francis Xavier, Immaculate Conception Cathedral of Cubao
In a solemn and historic celebration, Fr. Elias Ayuban, Jr. CMF, a Claretian missionary, was ordained bishop for the Diocese of Cubao at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, the seat of the diocese. The ordination Mass, presided over by Cardinal Jose Advincula, Archbishop of Manila, was co-consecrated by Bishop Honesto Ongtioco, the outgoing bishop of Cubao, and Bishop Albert Uy of Tagbilaran, Bohol, the province from which Bishop Ayuban hails. The homily was delivered by Bishop Pablo David, who is soon to be elevated to the rank of cardinal.
The day began with a civic reception ceremony held before the 9:00 AM ordination Mass, graced by Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, who expressed her gratitude for the contributions of the Church to the city’s spiritual and social development. The ceremony highlighted the strong collaboration between the local Church and the government in fostering community growth and solidarity.
The liturgy, which lasted for three hours, included the Rite of Canonical Possession, where the newly ordained bishop formally assumed his role as the shepherd of the diocese. This rite symbolizes his authority and responsibility over the diocese, marking the beginning of his pastoral leadership.
Bishop Ayuban is only the second bishop of the Diocese of Cubao, a relatively young diocese established 21 years ago. The diocese covers a compact area of 76 square kilometers, encompassing the southern part of Quezon City, specifically its first and fourth legislative districts, and most of the third district. It has 46 parishes, including one non-parochial shrine, with 30% of these administered by religious congregations.
Among the parishes is the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in UP Village, which is managed by the Claretians, Bishop Ayuban’s congregation. The Sacred Heart Parish-Shrine, the first parish established after Quezon City was declared a city in 1939, continues to be administered by the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) since its foundation in 1941.
The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, previously under the SVD, was handed over to diocesan clergy in 1990, as part of the SVD’s focus on their missionary charism. It now serves as the central church of the diocese.
The Diocese of Cubao is also home to over 130 religious communities, including brothers, sisters, and priests from both active and contemplative orders. These congregations have played an essential role in shaping the diocese, providing pastoral care, education, and spiritual formation across its parishes and institutions. Their presence reflects the collaborative spirit between religious and diocesan clergy in spreading the Gospel and serving the faithful.
Bishop Ayuban’s missionary background and close ties with the religious communities bring new opportunities to further strengthen this partnership, ushering in a new chapter for the Diocese of Cubao.
In his thanksgiving remarks, Bishop Ayuban outlined his vision for the diocese using an acronym derived from his name: ELIAS, which stands for Empowerment, Listen, Inclusive, Accountability, and Synodality.
Empowerment of Others: Bishop Ayuban emphasized the importance of using one's position to uplift and serve, following Christ’s example of "washing the feet of others." He called for empowering the faithful to live out their vocation to holiness and service.
Listening: The new bishop committed to listening attentively to both the Lord and the people, fostering a deep connection with his flock’s needs. He pledged to be a pastor who listens first, ensuring that the voices of all are heard and valued.
Inclusive: He envisioned Cubao as a welcoming Church, where a tripartite communion of clergy, consecrated persons, and the laity—referred to as "Santatlo"—would come together. Bishop Ayuban promised to celebrate Masses in the peripheries, even holding street Masses, to ensure no one is excluded from the Church’s embrace.
Accountability: Emphasizing the balance between mercy and justice, Bishop Ayuban embraced his episcopal motto from Luke 6:36—"Merciful, just like the Father" (misericordes sicut pater). He underscored the need for accountability in all actions, guided by the example of God’s justice and mercy.
Synodality: Lastly, Bishop Ayuban stressed the importance of walking together as a relational Church, united in mutual support and shared mission. He reaffirmed his commitment to a synodal approach to leadership, where the faithful collaborate in the Church’s mission.
As the Diocese of Cubao enters this new chapter under his leadership, Bishop Ayuban’s vision reflects a strong commitment to building a Church that is inclusive, merciful, and aligned in the mission of Jesus.
His focus on empowerment, attentive listening, and synodality promises a pastoral ministry marked by greater collaboration among the clergy, consecrated persons, and laity. With his guidance, the Diocese of Cubao looks forward to a vibrant and dynamic future, filled with renewed hope and a deeper sense of mission.
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