The book is an honest outpouring of Dr. Sollano’s secrets and the daughter’s insights of her father’s journey from being a Reverend Father to a real father. Liebe truly acquired the intelligence and wisdom of his father as manifested in how she examined one by one the important events of her father’s life. Because of the book, I came to the conclusion that Dr. Sollano is truly loved and honored by his own family.
When I was a little boy, I dreamed also of becoming a priest. I was influenced by my late great grandmother who was a public school teacher and a very religious woman. My early introduction to the Catholic catechism and to the different Catholic traditions and customs (like the Flores de Mayo, Novenas and many others), and having also the early experience with the sacraments like confession and communion, I thought I would be a priest someday. I used to be so active in the different church activities since I was a parish youth leader. When I entered college, I took up Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy because my parents wanted me to work in USA. During that time, I had some doubts and guilt of not pursuing my dream of becoming a priest. But after reading the book, I am so glad I did not try to enter the seminary.
Destiny
The Lord has sworn and will not change his mind: "You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek." - Psalm 110:4
Dr. Sollano is destined to be a priest forever, no amount of dispensation can take away the character imprinted on his soul when he was ordained. A priest is a pastor, without the presence of Christ represented by the priest, the sacramental guide of the community; this would not be an ecclesial community in its fullness. From my own point of view, a married priest can still dutifully do his role as the pastor. When seminarians are ordained as priests, all of them profess to remain celibates or unmarried, but this promise made some of them to be hypocrites, living double lives, pretending to be who they are not in front of their parishioners.
Honor
Dr. Sollano is a very honorable man. It was mentioned in the book that because of the promise of celibacy, he was guilty of injustice on six counts. I believe that these six points mentioned in the book can be summarized in one phrase, to save the honor and dignity of the persons concerned. His wife, his children, and many people including his students are indeed lucky enough to have known him. He is very credible to preach about justice and most especially, love.
Love
The book by Liebe is actually a love story, a beautiful story of Liebe’s mom and dad. This story could be featured in “Maala-ala Mo Kaya,’’ and I am quite sure that this episode will garner high ratings and audience views. Seriously, for me, true love is the reason why Dr. Sollano humbly admitted that he was guilty of injustice because of the promise of celibacy.
Conclusion
If I entered the seminary, and eventually ordained as a priest, I’m surely will be one of those who Dr. Sollano called as “Celibate with Kabit.’’ But with the grace of God, I am now having a career with no pretentions, embracing my freedom, artistry and creativity.
I am praying also that in spite my sinfulness, I will become a saint someday. Maybe not all people will accept everyone’s uniqueness in the society, but I believe that we have the same God who will grant justice and love for all.
My Father Confessed to Me is a good material for all types of people who are seeking truth, justice and love.
*Liebe Sollano is the youngest daughter of my professor in Advanced Philosophy class at Cebu Normal University, Dr. Agustin Lumbab Sollano, Jr.
Dr. Sollano with my classmates. Very obvious, I was absent during the photo shoot!!! ;-)
