‘Father Cosme’ Celebrates 25 Years as a Priest

COURT HOUSE – Our Lady of the Angels Church was packed with standing room only to celebrate Rev. Cosme Raquemia De Le Pena’s 25th ordinance anniversary April 2.  
A special choir was in attendance as well as priests and parishioners from De Le Pena’s former churches packing the 11 a.m. Mass at Our Lady of Angels. 
De Le Pena, affectionately known as “Father Cosme” to many parishioners, was ordained into the priesthood in the Philippines, April 6, 1992. He studied in both the Philippines and Italy and then was invited by the Camden Diocese Bishop to join St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Brigantine in 2003. 
After two years in Brigantine, De Le Pena served in Absecon then came to Our Lady of the Angels in Court House in 2012. 
During the celebratory Mass, De Le Pena’s gratitude was clear,  “My heart is overflowing with gratitude, thank you, Lord Jesus.” “You are all awesome,” said De Le Pena to all parishioners. 
De Le Pena renewed his commitment to God during the Mass and his goal of building up the Christian community with charity, peace, and hope. 
“I am in love with God. It is a love story. Falling in love with a God who loves us,” he exclaims. “My goal is to be with God for all eternity.” 
De Le Pena led prayer and did a calling for young men in the area and throughout the world to join the priesthood. 
A huge reception celebrated De La Pena’s 25 years at Bishop McHugh Regional Catholic School. Middle Township police were also present assisting with traffic control and De Le Pena’s arrival to the party. 
The school was transformed into a festive party with decorations, live music and selections of both American and Filipino fare.
An estimated 500 people were in attendance.
De Le Pena is looking forward to his 50th anniversary as an ordained priest telling everyone to stay healthy and making invitations for the celebration in 2042.
To contact Johanna Hovik, email jhovik@cmcherald.com.