Thousands of faithful gathered for “Saysenta: A Symphony of Grace, Life, and Ministry,” a benefit concert to celebrate the 60th birthday of Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy at the IC3 Pavilion in Cebu City.
More than a joyful celebration of Archbishop Abet’s life and ministry, the concert showcased the musical talents of the Cebu Clergy to raise support for the hospitalization of diocesan priests.
Both young and senior clergy groups delighted the audience with performances ranging from Catholic songs to well-loved classic hits across generations.
Reflecting on the concert’s theme, Archbishop Abet said that, like a symphony, a meaningful life and ministry are never accomplished by one person alone.
He expressed his gratitude to his family, fellow priests, religious, benefactors, collaborators, and friends who have journeyed with him throughout the years, acknowledging that each of them has become part of the story God has written in his life.
“If my life has become a song,” he said, “it is only because God wrote the music. And so many of you helped me sing it.”
The good Archbishop also emphasized the concert’s charitable mission, saying that the faithful’s generosity is a tangible expression of love and gratitude for their priests who have faithfully cared for God’s people throughout their ministry.
“Through your generosity tonight, you are also saying to them [clergy], ‘Father, when you need care, we also will care for you,’” he pondered.
The evening was more than a birthday celebration; it was a joyful witness to a Church united in thanksgiving, fraternity, and care for its shepherds.