The St. Augustine of Hippo Parish in Carmen, Cebu, marked its 175th founding anniversary today, coinciding with the first day of its novena in preparation for the parish fiesta.
A highlight of the celebration was the blessing of the parish’s new retablo.
Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy led the blessing and presided over the Holy Mass. He was joined by Fr. Lyndon Ruiz, Episcopal Vicar for District 7; the parish team of pastors led by Fr. Ricardo Cañete, Team Moderator; and other visiting priests.
In his homily, Archbishop Abet reminded the faithful that caring for God’s house goes beyond beautifying and improving the physical church. It also means caring for God’s dwelling place in every person—nurturing relationships, strengthening the Christian community, and promoting peace, unity, and harmony.
He stressed that a beautiful church structure can lose its deeper meaning when the community within it is divided and deeply polarized.
“Kon ang katawhan sa Diyos walay pagsinabtanay, adunay kaguliyang, adunay pagbahin-bahin, ang mga dato walay pakabana sa mga kabus, ang mga kasilinginanan wala magsinabtanay, ug ang katawhan walay kinabuhi nga ihalad para sa Ginoo diha sa parokya, ang atong nindot nga balay alampuanan sayang. Mawad-an kini og kahulugan,” said Archbishop Abet.
The Archbishop likewise urged the leaders and shepherds of God’s flock to faithfully fulfill the mission entrusted to them—to care for God’s people, guide them in faith, and nurture a community where every person can experience God’s love and presence.
“Ang Ginoo di gyud malipay, masakitan pag-ayo kon ang iyang katawhan dili matarong pag-alima,” he said.
Archbishop Abet declares a “Special Year of Grace” for St. Augustine of Hippo Parish – Carmen beginning 19 August 2026 until 28 August 2027.
During this time, the Faithful may receive a Plenary Indulgence (the full remission of sins) once they make a Pilgrimage to the parish, participate in the Holy Mass and other approved liturgical activities, and pray for the intentions of the Holy Father, the Apostle’s Creed, one Our Father, one Hail Mary, and one Glory Be.
The usual conditions of Sacramental Confession and Communion must also be fulfilled.