2OTH FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY | With grateful and joyful hearts, the faithful of San Pedro Calungsod Parish – Cantabaco, Toledo City celebrated its 21st Fiesta in honor of San Pedro Calungsod and the 20th Founding Anniversary of the Parish, anchored on the theme: “Becoming a Listening Church, Fully Alive with San Pedro Calungsod.”
The celebration began with a warm welcome for Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy, greeted by the parish community and their parish priest, Rev. Fr. Ruel Marigomen, through a cultural dance performed by the students of Cantabaco National High School.
The Eucharistic Celebration followed, presided over by Archbishop Abet, whose inspiring homily emphasized the vital role of the youth in the Church’s mission. He reminded the faithful that mission does not always require grand gestures; a life centered on Christ and lived according to Christian values is itself a powerful witness. In this way, the youth become the salt and light of the earth, sharing the Gospel through simple yet meaningful acts of faith.
“Sa unsang paagiha kamo makasangyaw? Una sa tanan, puy-i ninyo ang Kristohanaong kinabuhi. Ayaw namo paghunahuna og daghan. Ikaduha, try to guide someone. Inspire someone pinaagi sa inyong misyon. Dasiga pinaagi mismo sa imong kinabuhi.”
Archbishop Abet also offered a timely reminder regarding social media, cautioning against its potential for polarization, bias, and moral pitfalls – especially with the rise of AI-driven content.
“Ang social media makaayo man, labi na kon gamiton sa maayo. Pero sa daghang paagi, makadaut sad siya. I hope ang mga batan-on dinhi makat-on sa paggamit sa social media sa paagi nga maayo. Kining social media mahibaw unsa imong gusto tungod sa AI; kung unsay imo gusto, maoy ipansak nimo and it is not always good.”
Priests who also joined in the celebration were Rev. Fr. Cosme Dela Peña, E.V., Episcopal Vicar; Rev. Msgr. Ildebrando Leyson, Postulator for the Cause of Canonization of San Pedro Calungsod; and other visiting priests.
Before the Mass concluded, Fr. Dela Peña read the declaration of the Year of Grace for the parish, commemorating this milestone in its history.