Reverend Father Elias Ayuban Jr., CMF, JCD, was officially ordained as the bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Cubao in a solemn Eucharistic celebration at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral of Cubao, Quezon City, on Wednesday.
The ceremony, coinciding with the Feast of St. Francis Xavier, marked Ayuban’s Episcopal Ordination and Rite of Canonical Possession. He succeeds Bishop Emeritus Honesto Ongtioco, who retired after two decades of service, following Pope Francis’ acceptance of his resignation in October.
Milestone for the Diocese
Ayuban’s ordination signifies his formal admittance to the College of Bishops. Principal consecrator Archbishop of Manila Fuerte Cardinal Advincula, along with Bishop Emeritus Ongtioco and other bishops, celebrated the milestone by conferring the “kiss of peace.”
The Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, Archbishop Charles Brown, presented Ayuban to the congregation and read Pope Francis’ Apostolic Letter announcing his appointment, first declared on October 10, 2024.
Reflecting on his new role, Ayuban acknowledged the challenges ahead:
“The shoes I wear are too big for me, but I am comforted by the thought of the mercy of God, who plants what is lacking in me. I will not compete with the Lord,” he said.
Words of Wisdom
Cardinal-elect and CBCP President Pablo Virgilio David, in his homily, encouraged the clergy to embrace their faith in times of difficulty, drawing inspiration from St. Peter the Apostle.
“For in weakness, power reaches perfection, for it is when I am weak that I am strong,” he said, quoting Corinthians.
David also expressed gratitude to Ongtioco for his steadfast leadership in the diocese.
A Life of Service
Born in Parang, Maguindanao, Ayuban began his spiritual journey with the Claretian missionaries. He took his vows in 1995 and was ordained a priest in 1996. Over the years, Ayuban held numerous roles, including parish priest, rector, professor, and provincial superior.
His academic pursuits led to a doctorate in canon law from the Pontifical Lateran University. His pastoral contributions extended to Australia, Vietnam, and Myanmar, reflecting his commitment to global missions.
The Diocese of Cubao, established in 2003, oversees a significant portion of Quezon City. With its many parishes and religious congregations, the diocese remains a vital spiritual and social hub for the community.