Today, the San Vicente Ferrer Parish in San Vicente, Liloan, Cebu, marks its 6th Day of Novena in preparation for its 13th Annual Parochial Fiesta.

Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy presided over the Holy Mass. He was joined by Fr. Moenil Lapa (Parish Priest), Fr. Regin Rex German (Parochial Vicar), and other visiting priests.

As the Universal Church celebrates the Good Shepherd Sunday, the Archbishop, in his homily, drew a striking parallel between the faithful and the nature of sheep.

Sheep, he noted, are often slow to respond, vulnerable, and prone to wandering astray. In much the same way, we, too, can struggle to fully grasp and live out God’s message. We find ourselves weak in the face of trials, defenseless against temptation, and easily led off course by the distractions of the world.

It is precisely in this shared fragility, the Archbishop emphasized, that the need for a shepherd becomes clear. Left on our own, we risk losing our way. But with Christ, the Good Shepherd, there is guidance, protection, and a path that leads us back to truth, purpose, and the enduring embrace of God’s love.

“Matod pa sa usa ka panultihon, ‘The closer we are to the Shepherd, the safer we are from the wolves.’ Magpaduol gyod ta kanunay sa atong Magbalantay. Kon mas duol ta niya, mas makadungog ta niya, mas makasabot ta niya, mas luwas ta sa mga lobo. Spend more time with your God so that everyday you will always be safe,” said Archbishop Abet.

Prior to the Holy Mass, the good Archbishop blessed the parish’s new Adoration Chapel.

On Thursday, April 30, the parish will celebrate its annual fiesta. Vicar General Msgr. Roger Fuentes will preside over the 10:00 AM Fiesta Mass.