Bishop Roberto Gaa was born on October 4, 1962, in Manila, to Agapito Gaa and Priscila Orendain.
From a young age, his life was marked by a deep sense of purpose and dedication, traits that would guide him through his journey in both education and faith.
He began his formal education at the Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City, where he studied from 1968 to 1980.
Following his time at Ateneo, Bishop Gaa pursued a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at the University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, graduating in 1980. His choice of engineering as a field of study reflected his analytical mind and disciplined approach to life.
However, after completing his undergraduate degree, Bishop Gaa felt a stronger calling—a divine call that led him to change his path entirely. He enrolled at the Holy Apostles Senior Seminary in Makati, where he began his journey toward the priesthood.
His theological education was further enriched from 1995 to 2000 at the San Carlos Graduate School of Theology in Guadalupe, Makati City, where he completed his graduate studies in theology.
On March 17, 2000, Bishop Gaa was ordained as a priest for the Archdiocese of Manila. Just a few months later, on September 23, 2000, he was appointed as a presbyter at the Manila Metropolitan Cathedral in Intramuros, Manila.
His early years in the priesthood were marked by a commitment to spiritual growth and leadership.
In pursuit of further spiritual and academic excellence, Bishop Gaa studied at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, Italy, from 2003 to 2005, where he earned a Licentiate in Spirituality.
This period in Rome not only deepened his spiritual insights but also broadened his perspective on the universal Church.
Over his 19 years as a priest, Bishop Gaa held various pastoral roles that shaped his ministry. He served as a parish vicar, parish priest, spiritual director, and dean of studies. His leadership was especially evident at the Holy Apostles Senior Seminary in Guadalupe, Makati City, where he played multiple roles:
- Dean of Studies (2002–2012, 2012–2019)
- Rector (2008–2019)
- Dean of Seminarians (2005–2012)
- Vice-Rector (2005–2008)
- Spiritual Director (2002–2012)
Bishop Gaa’s tenure at the seminary was marked by his dedication to the formation of future priests, ensuring that they were not only academically equipped but also spiritually grounded.
His extensive experience in pastoral care, seminary education, and spiritual direction culminated in a significant moment in his life.
On June 6, 2019, Pope Francis appointed Roberto Gaa as the Bishop of Novaliches, making him the third bishop of the diocese. His appointment was a testament to his unwavering faith, his dedication to the Church, and his commitment to serving the people of God.
As the Bishop of Novaliches, Bishop Gaa continues to lead with humility and compassion, guiding his flock with the same dedication and care that have characterized his entire ministry.
His journey from a young student at Ateneo to a shepherd of the Church reflects a life of profound faith, marked by a deep commitment to God's call.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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