The late Monsignor Sabino Vengco Jr has been recognized with a compilation of writings about him as told by people who knew him up close.

Launched on March 9 at the Immaculate Conception Major Seminary (ICMAS) in Guiguinto, Bulacan, the “Rowers” paid tribute to the Bulakeño theologian, who died in May.

The festschrift was published by the ICMAS Graduate School of Theology, where the priest served as its Dean of Studies and Prefect of Discipline from 1986 to 1996.

The book launch, which was held on the priest’s 80th birthday, was led by ICMAS Rector Fr. Emmanuel Cruz, ICMAS Theologate Dean of Studies Fr. Enrico Crisostomo, seminarians, and the Vengco family.

Msgr. Vengco was known as a long-time seminary formator, professor of theology and liturgy, and a pastor for the sick and elderly diocesan priests.

“He will not only be remembered in Bulacan but in the entire country for his contributions to the Church in the Philippines,” Fr. Crisostomo said.

Msgr. Vengco was professor of theology at San Carlos Graduate School of Theology (1974 to 2021); Loyola School of Theology, Ateneo de Manila University (1977 to 2021), holding the Jaime Cardinal Sin Professorial Chair for Philippine Marian Studies; Ecclesiastical Faculties of the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas, Manila (1978 to 1980 and 2007 to 2021); at Immaculate Conception Major Seminary (1986 to 2021); at Recoletos School of Theology (1978 to 1980 and 2007 to 2021); Mother of Good Counsel Seminary, San Fernando City (1986 to 1987 and 2018 to 2019); St. Vincent School of Theology (1990 to 2000); at Maryhill School of Theology (1996 to 2002 and 2007-2008); and the Institute of Formation and Religious Studies (1996 to 1997).

From 1978 to 1985, he served as Dean of Studies and Prefect of the Archdiocese of Manila’s San Carlos Seminary Graduate School of Theology in Makati City.

In 1986, he was summoned by Malolos Bishop Cirilo Almario, Jr. to establish the ICMAS Graduate School of Theology.

Msgr. Vengco was also known for establishing in 1993 the Kadiwa sa Pagkapari Foundation, Inc., which showed his dedication and love for the pastoral care of sick and elderly clergy throughout the country.

He served as its chair until 2021 and led its formal accreditation as the official arm for the care for elderly priests for the Episcopal Commission on Clergy of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines.

Copies of the Msgr. Vengco festschrift is available at the offices of the ICMAS Graduate School of Theology and at seminary’s library.