Father Jerry Orbos, SVD: A Life of Mission and Inspiration
Birth and Early Life
Birth: Father Jerry Orbos, SVD, was born on October 1, 1953, in Bani, Pangasinan, Philippines. His reverence for his parents has always been a profound aspect of his life.
Education and Religious Path
Seminary: He entered the Christ the King Mission Seminary, graduating in the HS Batch of ’70. In 1980, he was ordained as a priest of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) at the Divine Word Seminary in Tagaytay.
Missionary Work
Tingguian Missions: Father Orbos started his priestly journey as a missionary to the Tingguian Missions in La Paz, Abra (Our Lady of Peace Parish) for two years. Later, he served at the Divine Word College in Urdaneta, Pangasinan, taking on roles such as Director of the Junior College, Seminary, and Associate Program. In 1984, he embarked on a missionary assignment in Korea.
Mission Promotion and Leadership (Philippines)
Vocation Director: Upon his return to the Philippines in 1989, Father Orbos became Vocation Director and Mission Promoter. For 23 years, from 1990 until 2013, he served as Director of the SVD Mission Office, tirelessly working to raise awareness about missions and garner support for missionaries worldwide.
Inspirational Speaker, Retreat Master, and Author
Gifted Speaker: Blessed with the gift of inspirational speaking and writing, Father Orbos became a highly sought-after figure in retreats and spiritual events. He authored numerous books that deeply resonated with his audience, fostering interest in missions.
Media Presence
Television: Father Orbos is a familiar face on Philippine television, particularly for his participation in Sunday healing Masses.
Key Contributions and Legacy
Father Jerry Orbos is renowned for his profound impact on countless lives. His key contributions include:
- Promoting Mission Awareness: Tirelessly spreading awareness about missions and missionaries worldwide.
- Fundraising for Missions: Playing a crucial role in generating funds to support missionary activities.
- Spiritual Connection through Retreats and Writing: Connecting with people on a spiritual level through retreats, talks, and inspirational books.
- Spiritual Guidance and Healing: Offering comfort and spiritual guidance through participation in healing Masses.
Additional Notes
- Father Orbos’s brother, Oscar Orbos, served as a former Governor of Pangasinan.
- Another brother, Thomas Orbos, held the position of acting chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).
Where to Find Father Orbos’s Work
- Books: Father Orbos’s books are available on Feast Books and Amazon.
- Videos: Homilies, talks, and healing Masses with Father Orbos can be found on YouTube. Examples include:
- LORD, here I am joyfully trusting YOU | Homily with Fr. Jerry Orbos
- Remembering Our Loved Ones with Fr Jerry Orbos, SVD