Interviewer - Would you share a bit about your background: family, childhood, early education etc.?

I am Elmer Lagman Vergara. I was born on June 26, 1981 in Mabalacat, Pampanga, and I was raised in Bamban, Tarlac. I am the youngest in the family with 2 brothers and 2 sisters. I come from a family of farmers.

I am a Chemical technician by profession. I finish my Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry at the Tarlac State University on March 2002. I worked as a production/analyst/ chemist in a textile company for ten years prior to joining the Assumptionists. I finished my Associate Philosophy in 2013, Theology (STB) and MA in Spirituality and Retreat Giving in 2020 in Loyola School of Theology in Ateneo de Manila University. I am currently taking Certificate in Pastoral Care and Spirituality in Boston College.

I had my first profession of the temporary vows in June 14, 2015 and my Final Vows in June 19, 2021. I learned about the Assumptionists in 2003 through Ronald Sibugan, aa. After 9 years of discernment, I decided to join the Assumptionists. In my journey as a religious, I learned the most important lesson  and that is  how to become a human person. By accepting who I am in the eyes of my brothers and to God, and learn from my mistakes and rise again. I have learned to embrace my weaknesses and limitations and to celebrate my joys and strengths.

I believe in the very teaching of our founder Emmanuel dÁlzon—to educate people and the society through the signs of the times until they form Jesus Christ in them. Indeed, the Kingdom of God is at hand, as Assumptionist, may my profession of vows of poverty, obedience and chastity becomes a living witness of the Gospel. I pray that each and everyone may have a share in God’s Kingdom.