In a significant move for both the Diocese of St. Thomas and the Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic School, Bishop Jerome Feudjio has appointed the newly ordained Fr. Ronan Nee Sarmiento as Vice Principal of the prestigious educational institution. This appointment was announced in June 2024, following Fr. Sarmiento's ordination to the priesthood.
Dual Role for the New Priest
Fr. Sarmiento's appointment as Vice Principal comes as part of a broader assignment within the Diocese. He will serve in a dual capacity, also taking on the role of Parochial Vicar of the Cathedral Parish. In this position, he will work as the Assistant to Fr. Joseph Toko, the Rector of the Cathedral.
The announcement of these appointments was made by Fr. Marcel Gham, the Chancellor of the Diocese, at the conclusion of Fr. Sarmiento's ordination Mass on June 5, 2024.
Fr. Sarmiento: A Journey to Priesthood and Education
Fr. Ronan Sarmiento brings a unique background to his new roles. Born in 1985 in the Philippines, he initially pursued philosophical studies with the intention of becoming a priest. However, he temporarily discontinued this path and spent nearly a decade as a tutor of Music and Religion in the Bahamas.
Ordination of Fr Ronan Sarmiento in Sts Peter and Paul Cathedral, Diocese of St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands
After losing his possessions to a hurricane, Fr. Sarmiento moved to the US Virgin Islands to rebuild his life. It was during his time in the Virgin Islands, while still working as a tutor, that he felt a renewed call to the priesthood. This led him to Florida, where he completed his studies in Sacred Theology.
A New Chapter for Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic School
Fr. Sarmiento's appointment as Vice Principal marks a new chapter for Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic School, a historic institution in the US Virgin Islands. Established in 1924 and expanded to include a high school in 1946, the school has a long-standing tradition of excellence in education.
As Vice Principal, Fr. Sarmiento is expected to bring his experience in education and his fresh perspective as a newly ordained priest to enhance the school's mission of providing quality Catholic education.