As part of the 7th Day Novena in preparation for its 5th Founding Anniversary and the Feast of St. John Mary Vianney, the Birhen sa Guadalupe sa Sugbo Parish in Maomawan, Babag, Cebu City, joyfully welcomed Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy as the main celebrant of the Holy Mass.
He was joined by Fr. John Timothy Jadulco (Parish Priest), and other visiting priests.
Reflecting on the life of St. John Mary Vianney, Archbishop Uy highlighted the saint’s unwavering fidelity in serving a small parish for forty years. Though entrusted with only a few parishioners and faced with many challenges, the Curé of Ars remained steadfast, offering his life in humble and loving service.
Drawing from the saint’s example, Archbishop Abet reminded the faithful never to underestimate the little acts of love and service they can offer, for what matters most is how God sees the heart.
“Ayaw mo kahadlok sa gamay. Importante dako ka sa Ginoo. Kon imong gugma sa Ginoo ug sa isigkatawo dako, dako usab ka sa mata sa Ginoo,” he said.
His homily was a reminder that true greatness is not measured by influence, status, or numbers, but by the depth of one’s love for God and neighbor.
Before the Eucharistic Celebration, Archbishop Abet warmly greeted the parishioners as he passed through the different stations and zones of Barangay Babag, where the community prepared simple yet heartfelt welcome activities in his honor.
A special welcome program was also held at the Cebu Technological University–Cebu City Mountain Satellite Campus (CTU-CCMSC), led by Campus Director Dr. Patrobinson M. Salumag, together with the university’s faculty and staff.
Addressing the teachers, students, and faithful, the Archbishop encouraged everyone to become evangelizers in the digital world—social media users who proclaim Christ rather than promote themselves, build peace instead of spreading hatred, and share truth instead of fake news. He emphasized that digital platforms are powerful instruments for proclaiming the Gospel.
The pastoral visit began with a tree-planting and flower-picking activity, symbolizing the community’s commitment to caring for God’s creation while cultivating a faith that continues to bear fruit.