As the Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of Sta. Ana in Barili, Cebu, officially opens its preparations for the 412th Fiesta Celebration on July 26, 2026, the faithful gathered today in thanksgiving and prayer, entrusting the days ahead to God through the intercession of Saints Joachim and Anne.

Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy presided over the Opening Salvo Holy Mass, concelebrated by the parish’s Team Moderator, Fr. Nelson Ortizano, together with team members Fr. Virgilio Paras and Fr. Edgar Lumarda, and other visiting priests.

In his homily, Archbishop Abet reflected on the lives of Saints Joachim and Anne, reminding the faithful that holiness is not reserved for extraordinary people. Rather, God works powerfully through those who remain faithful, humble, and open to His will, even in the ordinary moments of daily life.

“Ang Diyos molihok sa hilom ug diha sa ordinaryo nga kahimtang sa kinabuhi sa mga tawo,” Archbishop Abet said.

The Archbishop also emphasized that the family remains the first and most important school of faith, where children first encounter God and learn the values of love, mercy, and service.

“Atong nasayran nga ang pamilya mao gyuy pinakauna nga tulunghaan sa pagtuo. Diha sa pamilya una makaila ang bata kinsa ang Diyos; dinha sa pamilya makasabot una ang bata unsa ang mahigugma, unsa ang maluoy, ug unsa ang motabang,” he said.

As the parish begins its journey toward this year’s fiesta, may the witness of Saints Joachim and Anne continue to inspire every family to become a true domestic Church—a home where Christ is loved, prayer is faithfully nurtured, and the Gospel is lived each day.