Newly Ordained Fr. Jhon Fred “Lennon” Caranzo, SSP, Celebrates Thanksgiving Mass in Taguig

𝘈𝘯𝘫𝘰𝘯 𝘍𝘳𝘦𝘥𝘳𝘪𝘤𝘬 𝘊. 𝘔𝘢𝘮𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢, 𝘚𝘚𝘗

A joyous occasion unfolded at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Parish in Lower Bicutan as Fr. Jhon Fred “Lennon” Caranzo, SSP, celebrated his Misa de Gracia (Thanksgiving Mass) following his recent ordination to the priesthood.

The celebration began with a heartfelt procession, during which Fr. Lennon was fetched from his family home and escorted to the parish church by family, friends, and parishioners.

The Eucharistic celebration was a memorable one, concelebrated by several esteemed clergy members: parish priest Fr. Hokan M. Samson, Vicar Forane and former parish priest Fr. Orlando Ordona, priests from the Diocese of Pasig, and members of the Society of St. Paul (SSP). Joining the assembly were SSP juniors, friends from the Order of Servants of Mary, as well as the newly ordained priest’s family and friends.

Fr. John Michael Mallanao, a close contemporary of Fr. Lennon during their years of service in the parish, delivered the homily. He shared three essential tips for the newly ordained priest: to remain happy, healthy, and holy, so that he may serve God’s people to the best of his abilities. Fr. Mallanao also exhorted the congregation to continually pray for priests and their vocations.

Fr. Samson expressed gratitude for the gift of Fr. Lennon’s priestly vocation, calling it a blessing for the parish community. He also thanked the Society of St. Paul for their role in forming and nurturing Fr. Lennon’s call to serve.

Fr. Mario Sobrejuanite, Provincial Superior of the SSP Philippine-Macau Province, also gave a heartfelt message of thanks to the parish community for their role in supporting Fr. Lennon’s vocation.

In his emotional thanksgiving speech, Fr. Lennon reflected on his journey from being an altar server at the parish to becoming a priest. He offered his maniturgium—a sacred cloth used during his ordination—to his mother, honoring her maternal sacrifices. He also presented the first stole he used to hear confessions to his elder sisters, acknowledging their support and sacrifices as they took on their late father’s role in the family.

The celebration concluded with a reception, where guests shared in the joy of the occasion and expressed their prayers for Fr. Lennon as he embarks on his new ministry.