By Father Leopold Glueckert, O.Carm. “Since Marlon is our much-loved maker of feasts and celebrations, it is entirely appropriate that his own celebration was second to none.” On Saturday March 21st, the Whitefriars community in Washington, DC, together with a broad swath of friends, gathered to celebrate with Brother Marlon Mateo as he made his solemn profession of vows. Since Marlon is our much-loved maker of feasts and celebrations, it is entirely appropriate that his own celebration was second to none. It is altogether fitting and proper! Marlon De Guzman Mateo was born at Balagtas, on Central Luzon in the Philippines, and came to the Carmelites by way of Canada. He took his first vows in 2005, and logged two very happy years of internship at Mount Carmel High School, Chicago. He was also happy to partake of the international Carmelite students’ tour in the steps of Teresa of Avila. He not only made excellent friends (some of whom attended the profession) but gained a powerful sense of Carmelite internationality Throughout his time of studies in Washington, Marlon has proven to be a hard working and disciplined student, with a unique and very welcome sense of the joy that often accompanies a Carmelite vocation. Members of Marlon’s family were joined by a wide selection of other Carmelites, community friends, classmates, and Washington Theological Union faculty. Whitefriars’ chapel was close to capacity with perhaps over 90 happy participants. Marlon’s profession Mass took place in mid-afternoon. His choice of opening hymn was “Come and Journey with Me,” since he sees his own religious life as a journey with God and community. Very Reverend John Welch, Prior Provincial, presided and accepted his vows. Formation director Father Quinn Conners formally summoned the candidate, and delivered the homily, based on chapter 3 of John’s Gospel. This is the part which proclaims that anyone who accepts the centrality of Jesus will be saved. A fine concept for those celebrating a life-commitment! Marlon strongly affirms that the journey in community is his link with Jesus and his grace. To the surprise of no one, the music was enchanting, helped greatly by community friends Jayne Rose and Julianne Wallace. The reception and banquet following the Mass were bountiful and well enjoyed. The evening ended with a riotous karaoke contest. Marlon’s holy card stated simply “I have seen the Lord.” (John 20: 18) Given the importance of prayer and community in his own formation process, this phrase says a great deal. E
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