Forged by Mission: Fr. Welbert Suarez Begins Tenure As Parochial Vicar at St. Mary

St. Mary recently welcomed Fr. Welbert Llyd Suarez, RCJ as its new parochial vicar. Fr. Welbert belongs to the Congregation of the Rogationist Fathers (Rogationists of the Heart of Jesus) just like our pastor, Fr. Joe Gasta.

From facing pirates in Papua New Guinea, to his first experience dealing with the “cold” here in Mokena, Fr. Welbert has quite the story to tell.

Can you tell me a little about yourself and where you’re from?

I’m from the Philippines, specifically the province of Surigao del Sur on the island of Mindanao, the second largest island in the Philippines. I grew up in a small town called Carrascal and spent most of my childhood there. After high school, around the age of 16, I left to enter seminary.

Tell us about your family

I am the second oldest of four siblings. One of my brothers and sister still live in the Philippines, along with my parents. I have another brother who lives in New Zealand with his wife.

At what point did you decide to enter seminary?

My journey began from a desire to study far away from home. Right before I graduated high school, some seminarians visited our school to promote joining the priesthood. I saw this as an opportunity to escape my hometown in a way that my parents would approve of. So, I initially entered seminary out of a desire to simply go out into the world and find my way.

How did you decide you truly wanted to become a priest?

Once I entered seminary, I gradually fell in love with the lifestyle and became more serious about becoming a priest. At the same time, I faced many difficult “Doubting Thomas” moments when I questioned whether I should continue my studies.
I asked God for a sign and gradually began to discern that He had been guiding me this whole time, even when my intentions weren’t the purest. Eventually, I became morally convinced to continue following this path.

When were you ordained a priest?

I was ordained in 2016.

Was your first assignment in the Philippines?

Yes, after ordination, I was assigned to Our Lady of the Pillar Parish in Zaragoza, Bolinao, Pangasinan, where I served for almost four years.

Later, you served in Papua New Guinea. What was that experience like?

It was truly a missionary experience. Evangelization there is very intense because while Christianity exists, the people are still growing in understanding and living the faith. The community is tribal, with strong cultural traditions and rivalries. One of the Church’s roles there is to reconcile warring tribes and unite them under Christ. Sometimes that involves holding a large feast to make peace between them.

Did you face challenges or dangers in the mission work?

Yes. We had to travel on small fiberglass or wooden boats to get from chapel to chapel across different islands to say Mass and celebrate the Sacraments.

Traveling on the little 38-foot wooden boats can be very dangerous and risky, and not just because of the weather and rough seas. Once, my boat was hijacked by pirates who demanded we got on the floor while they stole the food rations we were bringing to parishioners.

It was dangerous on land too. Our rectory was broken into twice in one year. On one occasion, 15 intruders with guns, axes, and bush knives came in to rob us.

How did you end up in the United States?

As a member of a religious congregation (the Rogationists), we take vows of obedience. When my superiors assigned me here, I accepted. There was discernment and dialogue, but ultimately, I trusted that God’s will was working through my superiors’ decision, and everything would be figured out along the way.

How did it feel to go so far from home?

It’s something new and far, so I wanted to try it. New experiences have always given me something to learn and discover, so I keep a very positive attitude.

What has struck you most about being here?

It’s cold! I’ve never seen snow, so this winter will be my first.

I was also shocked by what seems like an extravagant lifestyle relative to where I came from. The room I have, the food selection, the homes in the area—all of this is so radically different from what I’m used to. However, I understand that it’s considered normal here.

Do you have any favorite things about being in Mokena so far?

Yes, the sense of safety. In Papua New Guinea, we were always cautious, even in our mission center. Here I can freely walk around and go jogging or biking. I also enjoy basketball, and I’m looking forward to more outdoor activities here.

Which Catholic Devotion Are You Most Drawn To?

I am most drawn to silent reflection and meditation, and I feel very much at home during Eucharistic Adoration.

Which Saint Inspires You the Most?

I am most inspired by Hannibal Mary di Francia, the founder of my order of the Rogationists of the Heart of Jesus.