Photo courtesy of Marianists
Newly professed Marianist Brother Dennis Bautista, center, poses with Marianist provincial Stephen Glodek, left, and Marianist Father James Fitz on the day of his profession Oct. 24 in San Antonio.
Former Ewa Beach resident takes final vows as a Marianist
Brother Dennis Bautista, formerly of Ewa Beach, made his perpetual vows in the Society of Mary (Marianists) during Mass on Oct. 24 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel on the campus of St. Mary’s University in San Antonio.
“It is with profound joy and pride that I receive the affirmation and support of my family, friends and Marianist brothers,” the Marianist brother said. “They have walked with me these past few years in realizing my vocation to become a perpetually professed Marianist.”
About 200 Marianists, relatives and friends attended the Mass, which included Hawaiian chants, prayers and songs.
Marianist Brother Brian Halderman gave the introduction. Presiding at the Mass was Father James Fitz assisted by Father Dave McGuigan and Father Bill Meyer.
Marianist Provincial Stephen Glodek received the vows and gave a reflection. Marianist Brother Charles Johnson was the master of ceremonies.
A reception followed at St. Mary’s University Center.
Brother Bautista has a bachelor’s degree in communications from Chaminade University of Honolulu and a master’s degree in communications and a doctorate in interdisciplinary intercultural communication from Washington State University.
As an aspirant with the Society of Mary, he worked in the Office of Communications at St. Mary’s University. During his second year of novitiate, he served in communications and vocation development for the Marianist Provincial Office in St. Louis. He professed first vows in May 2006.
Brother Bautista is a member of the Casa Maria community in San Antonio. He teaches in the English-Communication Studies department at St. Mary’s University.
The Society of Mary is an international Catholic religious order of more than 600 priests and brothers serving in the Province of the United States, which includes Eastern Africa, India, Mexico and the Philippines. The Marianists sponsor three U.S. universities (University of Dayton in Dayton, Ohio, St. Mary’s University in San Antonio and Chaminade University of Honolulu) as well as 18 high schools, eight parishes and several retreat centers.