Fray Don Besana Installed as New Local Prior of Recoletos de Cebu

Cebu City, Philippines – The Augustinian Recollect community of Cebu officially welcomed its new local prior, Fray Don Besana, OAR, in an installation rite held this morning, July 14, 2025. The solemn ceremony took place at the convent chapel of the community, just before the praying of the Midday Prayer.

The installation, formally known as the Toma de Posesión, was presided over by Fray Bernard Amparado, Prior Provincial.

This installation marks an important moment for the Recoletos de Cebu community. Fray Besana now assumes the responsibility of leading and guiding the friars in their spiritual and communal life. Beyond the convent walls, his leadership will also extend to the vital institutions administered by the community: the University of San Jose-Recoletos and the Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel-La Limpia. This broadened scope highlights the multifaceted nature of his new role, encompassing both academic and pastoral responsibilities.

During the ceremony, Fray Besana formally accepted the duties and challenges inherent in his new position through the Profession of Faith. This solemn act reaffirmed his commitment to uphold the charism and the Constitutions of the Order, as well as the doctrines and teachings of the Catholic Church.

The community expressed a warm welcome to Fray Besana, offering heartfelt prayers for his successful tenure. With this new leadership, Recoletos de Cebu looks forward to continued spiritual growth, communal harmony, and dedicated service to the Church and the faithful in Cebu.