Fr. Christopher L. Exala, O.Carm.
February 27, 1967 – June 6, 2010
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
Today, we remember Fr. Christopher “Topi” L. Exala, O.Carm.
Fr. Topi was born on February 27, 1967 in Davao City to George Exala of Cotabato and Anatolia Lao of Candihay, Bohol.
He is third of five children.
He finished his elementary education in 1979 at Maniki Central Elementary School in Kapalong, Davao, and his secondary education at Maryknoll High School of Kapalong in 1983.
He then entered Holy Cross College in Davao City but in 1985 decided to enter the Queen of Apostles College Seminary in Tagum where he finished his Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy in 1988.
On June 1990 he joined the postulancy program of the Order of Carmelits under Br. Arie Kuil, O.Carm. in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur.
He was accepted to the novitiate program in 1991 an made his first profession on May 30, 1996.
He did his theological studies at the Inter-Congregational Theological Center in Novaliches, Quezon City. His thesis was entitled, “Immersion: Encountering the Human Face of God,” which is a theological reflection of being with the people.
On December 29, 1996 was ordained a priest by the late Bishop of Butuan, H.E. Juan de Dios Pueblos, D.D. at the Sacred HEart of Jesus Parish in San Francisco, Agusan Del Sur.
Fr. Topi was assigned to various ministries including as parish priest of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Escalante, Negros Occidental (2001) and as director/rector of different levels of formation.
At the time of his death, Fr. Topi was rector for simple professed friars who were doing their theological studies.
Fr. Topi died in a vehicular accident on June 6, 2010.
Let us remember Fr. Topi in our prayers today.
