With joyful hearts, the faithful of the Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Minglanilla came together to inaugurate the Ceiling Mural Project, a sublime artwork depicting the Seven Sorrows and Joys of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Outgoing Cebu Archbishop Jose S. Palma presided over the Thanksgiving Mass, joined by the parish team of pastors led by Fr. Joselito Danao (Team Moderator and District II Episcopal Vicar) and other visiting priests.
In his homily, Archbishop Palma likened the beautification of the church to a banquet prepared by a catering team—where the food remains the same, but its thoughtful presentation and arrangement elevate the entire experience, making it truly fitting for life’s most significant moments.
In the same way, when we beautify the church—the sacred space where we partake in the Holy Mass, the Banquet of Christ—we express our reverence and love for the Lord. Such care for the place of worship allows us to enter more deeply into the mystery of His presence and appreciate more profoundly the gift of sharing His Body and Blood.
“Si Kristo nag-abi-abi kanato, ug gusto magpakaon nato, dili lamang ordinaryo nga pagkaon pero lawas ug dugo Niya … In an atmosphere of a beautiful church, sayod kita nga kini magdugang sa atong appreciation bankete ni Kristo,” he said.
After the Holy Mass, the good Archbishop led the giving of the Jubilee of Hope Awards to parishioners who have been serving the parish and demonstrated significant life experiences of hope amidst challenges and hardships, as well as Certificates of Appreciation to the artists behind the mural.