Biography of Fr. Wilson Jerusalem

Fr. Wilson Aringoy Jerusalem was born on October 20, 1985, in the vibrant barangay of Candamiang, Santander, Cebu, Philippines, to his loving parents, Felicisima Rivera Aringoy and Eugenio Cuento Jerusalem. He grew up in a bustling household with five sisters and four brothers, where he learned the values of family, faith, and hard work.

His educational journey began at Candamiang Elementary School, where he completed his primary education in 1998. He then pursued his secondary education at Sisters of Mary School Boystown in Minglanilla, Cebu, graduating in 2001.

Following his graduation, he embarked on a professional path, joining Karikawa Cebu Corporation in MEPZ 1 Lapulapu City, Cebu, where he worked until 2005. However, feeling a deeper calling, he returned to Sisters of Mary School, with the assistance of Sister Teresita Prudente, to explore his vocation further.

In 2006, with a strong conviction to serve God, he entered the Brothers of Christ Congregation in Guadalajara, Mexico, remaining there until 2009. However, feeling called to a different path, he left the congregation to pursue the priesthood.

His journey toward priesthood led him to San Carlos Seminary College in Manolo, Cebu City, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Philosophy in 2015. During this time, he distinguished himself with a Silver Medal and Service Award for his academic achievements. His thesis, "Blaise Pascal's and Michel de Montaigne's Concept of Diversion: A Comparative Study," showcased his intellectual prowess and critical thinking skills.

Following his philosophical studies, he pursued a Bachelor's degree in Theology at La Universidad de Navarra in Spain. During his time there, he founded the "Spes Missio Community," dedicated to serving the corporal and spiritual needs of others.

Upon completing his theological studies and receiving his diploma in 2019, he returned to Cebu to undergo pastoral training. Amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, he served his parish while awaiting his diaconal ordination, which took place on December 8, 2020, at Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral.

After his ordination, he was assigned to Holy Rosary Parish in Inayagan, Cebu, before being ordained a priest on August 2, 2021, alongside seven others. Immediately following his priestly ordination, he assumed the role of school Treasurer at Academia de San Agustín in Carmen, Cebu.

In 2023, recognizing the financial needs of the school, he sought opportunities abroad, leading him to apply to the Diocese of Metuchen in New Jersey, USA. Upon his arrival in April 2023, he served as a Parochial Vicar at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Ne until August 31, 2023, when he was appointed as the Parochial Vicar of St. Philip and St. James Parish in Phillipsburg, New Jersey, owing to his proficiency in Spanish.

Despite his responsibilities in the United States, Fr. Wilson remains dedicated to his role as the school Treasurer in Academia de San Agustín, Carmen, Cebu, and continues to serve the Hispanic community at St. Philip and St. James Parish in New Jersey, embodying his commitment to both education and pastoral care.