On the Fifth Sunday of Easter, the faithful of San Pedro Calungsod Parish in Manghilao, Masaba, Danao City gathered in thanksgiving for the Solemn Dedication and Consecration of their Church and altar.

The milestone celebration coincided with the parish’s 10th anniversary of its canonical erection.

Cebu Archbishop-Emeritus Jose S. Palma presided over the Rite of Dedication and the Eucharistic Celebration. He was joined by Fr. Lyndon Ruiz (District 7 Episcopal Vicar), Fr. Teodoro Baruc (Parish Priest), and other visiting priests.

In his homily, Archbishop-Emeritus Palma, not merely as a physical structure, but as a living sign of the community’s faith, love, and unity. Just as families take joy in beautifying their own homes, it is fitting that the faithful also take delight in offering their best for the house of God. 

“Angay lamang malipay kita nga kon sa atong kinabuhi, naningkamot tag pagpatahom sa atong balay, nalipay kita gipatahom nato ang balay sa Diyos,” he said.

Recalling the life of St. Pedro Calungsod, who, in his youth, shed his blood as a courageous witness to the faith, the good Archbishop-Emeritus reminded the faithful to be authentic witnesses to their faith through daily acts of love, responsibility, and forgiveness within their families and communities.

“Dili tanan posible mahimong martir, pero tanan [mahimong] saksi sa pagtuo. Kini alang natong tanan… Tanan kita gitawag sa pagsaksi sa gugma sa Diyos, sa lainlain nga pamaagi—ang pag-ampo, pagtinabangay, atong mga buhat sa kalooy—tanan nga atong buhaton sa ngalan sa gugma. Saksi kini nga kita Kristiyano,” urging the faithful .

The relic of St. Maximilian Kolbe, martyr, was encased in the altar.