A Life of Faith and Service: Fr. Potenciano Dulay Celebrates 40 Years of Priesthood

New York City — In a deeply moving celebration, Fr. Potenciano Evangelista Dulay marked his 40th Sacerdotal Anniversary, commemorating four decades of unwavering service to God and the Catholic Church. Held in the heart of Catarman, Northern Samar, the event brought together parishioners, clergy, family, and friends to honor a life that has touched countless souls through compassion, sacrifice, and steadfast faith.

Born and raised in a devout family from Laoang, Northern Samar, Fr. Dulay’s journey to the priesthood was far from typical. As a young boy, he had dreams of becoming an engineer. However, during his Voluntary Regency in third-year theology, he felt a deeper calling—a divine pull that redirected his life toward priesthood. “It was the calling I couldn’t ignore,” Fr. Dulay reflects.

Interestingly, his own father was initially against the idea, believing young Potenciano lacked academic drive. But the late Fr. Potenciano Ortega, then parish priest of Laoang, saw potential and personally encouraged the Dulay family to support the vocation. From that moment on, Fr. Dulay’s path was clear. He began his formation at St. Vincent de Paul College Seminary, proceeded to Sacred Heart Seminary in Palo, Leyte for Philosophy, and later completed his Theology at San Carlos Seminary.

Ordained at just 25 years old in 1985, Fr. Dulay was immediately immersed in pastoral work, beginning with an assignment in the remote islands of Capul and San Vicente. With limited access to the mainland and challenging travel by small boats, he faced enormous obstacles. Yet, what could have been a hardship became a blessing, as he was warmly embraced by the close-knit island communities. “There’s always a silver lining,” he often says, “especially in the goodness of people.”

Over the years, Fr. Dulay served as parish priest in nine towns across Northern Samar San Roque, Lavezares, Catubig, Palapag, Bobon, Allen and Catarman. Known for his humility, hands-on leadership, and genuine love for his parishioners, each community he served remembers him fondly and often asked him to stay longer. His present assignment in Catarman is a homecoming of sorts—marking not just a milestone, but a full-circle moment in his vocation.

Beyond pastoral work, Fr. Dulay also spearheaded major church projects, including the construction of Balay Padi in Doña Lucia, Mondragon. A significant project under the Diocese of Catarman, Balay Padi is envisioned as a retreat and formation center dedicated to spiritual growth and renewal for clergy and lay faithful alike.

Looking back, Fr. Dulay attributes everything to grace. “It is the goodness of God made visible through the goodness of people,” he shares.

As he celebrates this sacred milestone, Fr. Potenciano Dulay remains a living testament to faith, perseverance, and love in service. His story continues to inspire, not just in Northern Samar, but across all communities he has touched through the priesthood.