The Louisian community gathered on 27 April 2026 at the Saint Louis University (SLU) St. Aloysius Gonzaga Parish to celebrate the 34th Sacerdotal Anniversary of SLU President, Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, PhD.
The commemoration opened with a Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Most Rev. Rafael T. Cruz, DD, Bishop of the Diocese of Baguio, marking Fr. Gilbert’s 34 years of devoted service and steadfast commitment to priesthood and the community.
In his homily, Bishop Cruz shared an inspiring story about the four kinds of people in society. The first type of people are those without formal education who struggle to distinguish right from wrong, often engaging in wrongful actions and believing them to be appropriate because of a lack of moral guidance. The second type, though uneducated, are able to discern right from wrong and choose to do what is good, making them admirable models in society, able to demonstrate integrity and resourcefulness despite limitations. The third kind are educated individuals who do not apply their knowledge and values in their actions. The fourth are those who are educated and able to apply their knowledge and values in meaningful practice. Bishop Cruz reminded the SLU community, as educators, to first embody the values they teach before passing them on, guiding students toward becoming morally grounded and responsible individuals.
Fr. Gilbert then expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all who have shared in his priestly journey. He said, “My heart is full of gratitude, joy, and a little wonder at how God manages to work through someone like me…”
“I offer my gratitude to God Almighty. In Your mysterious wisdom, You have entrusted me with this mission in education. I may have stumbled and faltered, but I continue to try with the best of my ability to serve You and Your people. Thank you, Lord, for trusting me—for never leaving my side, even in the darkest days. After 34 years, I can say with certainty: It has been a journey of grace. And if God is willing—and if you are all patient with me—we will continue this journey together,” he further expressed.
Fr. Gilbert also extended special thanks to Bishop Cruz for gracing the celebration, which, he said, is the first time in his 34 years as a priest that a bishop celebrated a mass for him.
Among those present during the momentous occasion were members of the SLU community, council members from the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines – Cordillera Administrative Region (CEAP-CAR), religious sisters, representatives from the Apostolic Vicariate of Bontoc-Lagawe and Tabuk, the Diocese of Baguio, and various congregational families. Their presence reflected the unity and strong collaboration among Catholic institutions and their collective support for this achievement in Fr. Gilbert’s leadership.
Fr. Gilbert first joined the CICM in 1979, then took his religious vows in 1984. Having been ordained to the priesthood in 1992, Fr. Gilbert dedicated his life to decades of missionary work and leadership. He served in Hong Kong and Mongolia, led Saint Louis College of San Fernando City, La Union, for ten years, and continues his mission as the 7th President of SLU.
Blessing ceremony of University facilities: a symbol of safety, peace, and benevolence
As part of the celebration, a blessing ceremony was held for several newly renovated university facilities, including the Powerhouse, the Sunflower Pedagogical Development Center (SLU-PDC), and the Men’s Residence Hall.
The ceremony began at the Powerhouse Facility, a core infrastructure that manages the university’s power source, facilities, and maintenance needs. This was followed by the SLU-PDC, which now features improved spaces, including a breastfeeding area, play area, assessment room, and workshop rooms (A, B, and C), each with divided walls for privacy and functionality.
The ceremony concluded at the Men’s Dormitory located at the Fr. Alberto Van Overbeke Student Center, where the second phase of development has been completed. This phase includes both interior and exterior repainting and renovation, promoting a more comfortable environment that supports students’ academic performance and overall well-being.
The blessing ceremony symbolized the call for continued safety, peace, and benevolence for all who will use and benefit from these facilities.
Attended by heads of offices and representatives from various departments, the event strengthened the university community’s camaraderie and shared commitment to Missio et Excellentia under the leadership of Fr. Gilbert.
Today’s celebration inspired the community to continue this journey of grace together, sustained by faith, community, and God’s unwavering trust. (Article by Mariam Qatarina R. Santos, UIO Intern | Photos by Kemm Mitchell Olarte, UIO Intern)
