At Holy Name of Mary Church in San Dimas, CA in the evening of Dec. 6th, 2024, Br. Juan Carlos “Charlie” Martinez, ss.cc., took his perpetual vows into the hands of Rev. Fr. Lane Akiona, ss.cc., Provincial of the U.S. Province of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, assisted by Fr. Rich Danyluk, ss.cc. Novice Master. Fr. Rich gave the homily, recounting Br. Charlie leap of faith into his vocation as a brother of the Sacred Hearts.
Br. Charlie after the mass spoke about being welcome into this community of love, recognizing his being drawn to these different priests- who manifest the love of Jesus in a unique, personal and welcoming way.
Br. Charlie’s mother and father gave their son to our order; his siblings were also present as well as members of the SS.CC. Secular Branch, who brought the gifts forward.
Fr. Chris Santangelo, pastor of Holy Name of Mary, skillfully guided the liturgy. The mood was very joyful as many parishioners and other friends gathered to celebrate Br. Charlie’s final vows. Fr. Rich, Fr. Chris, and Br. Charlie each remarked that the parish community, family and friends nurtured Br. Charlie’s vocation. All were thankful to God for Br. Charlie’s YES to this special and beautiful calling.
